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JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2026

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HOLSTON HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

YOUR CLUB

HOLSTON HILLS CC STAFF Josie Lewis | jlewis@holstonhills.com General Manager

JANUARY & FEBRUARY HOURS OF OPERATION

Ryan Blair | rblair@holstonhills.com Certified Golf Course Superintendent

Christian Melson, PGA | cmelson@holstonhills.com Director of Golf Dara Jenkins | djenkins@holstonhills.com Membership & Communications Director Danielle Haas | dhaas@holstonhills.com Accounts Manager

*1st Sunday of the month, Brunch menu 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM*

Patrick Budniewski | pbudniewski@holstonhills.com Executive Chef

TURN SHACK Monday | Closed Tuesday-Friday | 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday & Sunday | 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Cynthia Burrell | cburrell@holstonhills.com Restaurant Manager Montgomery Moore | banquets@holstonhills.com Banquet Manager

GOLF SHOP, GOLF COURSE & PRACTICE FACILITY Monday | Closed Tuesday-Sunday Golf Shop | 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Golf Course | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Practice Tees | 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Jacob Fuqua | jfuqua@holstonhills.com Tennis Director Shearer Ashley | activities@holstonhills.com Activities Director Josh Delorme, PGA | jdelorme@holstonhills.com Assistant Golf Professional

*Golf carts must be in by no later than 5:00 PM

FITNESS CENTER

Dylan Moncus, PGA | dmoncus@holstonhills.com Assistant Golf Professional

Monday | 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Key fob) Tuesday-Sunday | 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM KEY FOB HOURS ~ Tuesday-Sunday, 5:00 AM - 6:30 AM

Ethan Rimmer | erimmer@holstonhills.com Assistant Golf Professional

POOL - Closed for the season!

Tom Seymour | tseymour@holstonhills.com Golf Operations

HHCC CONTACT PHONE NUMBERS

Jazz Gordon | jgordon@holstonhills.com Fitness Trainer

IN THIS ISSUE Your Club...…………………..………………..…...….…..........2 Membership Updates..........................................3 GM Note & What We’re Sipping.......................4 Bar, Club Events & Activities..............................5 Food & Beverage......…..........................................6

✨ Cheers to a bright

new year! Wishing our members happiness, good health, and many memorable moments at the Club in 2026.

🥂

Tee it Up...................................................................7 Golf & Visit Knoxville Open................................8 HHCC Golf Calendar………....................................9 Turf Talk...…..…..…..…..….................................10-11 Inside McConnell Golf................................12-13 Tennis.....................................................................14 Kids Club..................................................................15 Fitness..............................................…..........….……...16

FEATURED ON THE COVER

HHCC Parent Child Tournament | WINNERS: The Sturgeon family at -4 Check out more pictures on page 14 Photo by: Ethan Rimmer

Heart of Holston..……...……………….......................17 At-A-Glance...........................................................18 Photo Gallery........................................................19 McConnell Golf Cookies of the Month........20

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MEMBERSHIP UPDATES As we welcome the new year and say goodbye to 2025, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and patience. This past year brought its share of changes and challenges, but throughout it all, our membership showed incredible grace and understanding. Quite honestly, we would not be where we are today without you. New member referrals remained strong, accounting for 67% of our new memberships. In total, we welcomed 97 new families into the Holston Hills Country Club and McConnell Golf family—outpacing the last three years and coming very close to our record year of 118 new families, set in 2021. As we welcome new families, we also say goodbye to others. This year, we experienced just over 50 membership resignations. While it’s never easy to see families leave, we are grateful for the time they spent with us and wish them nothing but the best in their next chapter. Looking ahead to 2026, we are excited to have you and your family with us. Our team has been hard at work planning a fun-filled calendar of events, including happy hours, tournaments, camps, and member trips. We’re especially excited to kick off a Monthly New Member Happy Hour beginning in January (see details below). Be sure to keep an eye on your email—particularly the HHCC Weekly Happenings—as well as the event calendar on our website. There is so much to look forward to, and we don’t want you and your family to miss out on any of the fun! If you have any questions or need assistance making a reservation, please don’t hesitate to reach out. CHEERS to 2026!

Dara Jenkins | Membership & Communications Director DJenkins@HolstonHills.com

Friendly Reminder: McConnell Golf is committed to keeping our members well-informed through the use of technology. To ensure you receive important updates, please take a moment to confirm that your email address, cell phone number, and other contact details are current. If you have any changes or updates, please contact Dara Jenkins.

Please help me in welcoming our newest Holston Hills Country Club members.

Dr. Salvatore & Crystal Campione Clubhouse

Not Pictured:

Dr. Javiette Samuel, Clubhouse Jeremy & Whitney Thompson, Resident Golf Ken & Jamie White, National Golf Pat & Holly Stobb, Resident Golf

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A NOTE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER Dear HHCC Members, As we turn the page to January and February, the temperatures outside may be brisk, but the clubhouse remains as warm and welcoming as ever. These winter months offer a great opportunity to reconnect, recharge, and enjoy the comforts that make Holston Hills feel like home. I encourage you to stop by often, support our incredible team, and take a moment to meet fellow members, especially those who are new to the club. The quieter winter season creates space for connection and helps build momentum as we gear up for warmer days ahead. Our culinary team is embracing the season, keeping the soups warm and the comfort favorites coming, perfect for cozy winter dining. Be sure to keep an eye out for details and reservations for our Valentine’s Wine Dinner—this is always a favorite and tends to fill up quickly. The Fitness Center also sees great energy this time of year. Jazz’s classes and Yoga with Suzanne offer a fantastic way to stay active, motivated, and feeling your best throughout the winter months. While outdoor activities may pause, the clubhouse remains full of life. We look forward to welcoming you often and starting the new year together with connection, warmth, and a strong sense of community. Warm regards, Josie Lewis | General Manager JLewis@HolstonHills.com

Where my joy begins. – The Lewis Family

WHAT WE’RE SIPPING Creating cocktails is my favorite part of the job—it allows me to be creative while also connecting with our membership. The fast-paced environment keeps things exciting and makes the experience incredibly rewarding. As many of you may already know, each season we craft new cocktails to rotate into our cocktail book. This winter, I centered several drinks around a homemade mint and cranberry simple syrup, which perfectly captures the holiday spirit while also being absolutely delicious. Using this syrup, I created the Holiday Spritz and the Mistletoe Martini. Some of you may recognize the Mistletoe Martini from the Holiday Mixology Class we hosted at Holston this past month. Thanks to its popularity, it was highly requested for our winter cocktail lineup, and we were happy to include it— along with a slightly different variation featured in the Holiday Spritz. Be sure to stop by the Donald Ross Dining Room and enjoy one of our winter cocktails this season. We look forward to raising a glass with you. Cheers, Montgomery Moore | Banquet Manager Banquets@HolstonHills.com

HOLIDAY MIXOLOGY Our Holiday Mixology class with Montgomery. Photos by: Cynthia Burrell

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NEW BEHIND THE BAR Now Pouring... We’re always looking for ways to expand our offerings and elevate our selections, and we’re excited to introduce three exceptional new bourbons to our lineup.

Eagle Rare 10-Year Bourbon Known for its depth of character and distinctive presence.

Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon Smooth and slightly sweet, with notes of citrus and oak.

E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon Rich, complex, and beautifully balanced. With colder winter days upon us, there’s no better way to warm up than with a glass of bourbon. Join us in the dining room to enjoy one of these selections—whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or crafted into a classic Old Fashioned. Cynthia Burrell | Restaurant Manager CBurrell@HolstonHills.com

CLUB EVENTS & ACTIVITIES SINGO NIGHT WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14th | 6:00 PM (start) Free with a food or drink purchase! Additional cards $3 Singo is an exciting musical spin on the traditional game of Bingo. Instead of listening for a number, players are listening to their favorite music from all music genres. We will play 6 games filled with fun prizes.

FAMILY BINGO NIGHT WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11th | 6:00 PM (start) Free with a food or drink purchase! Additional cards $3 Shake off those winter blues and join us for Family Bingo night at the club! We will play 6 games filled with fun prizes.

Sweetheart Valentine’s Day Wine Dinner SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14th | 6:00 PM $65++ per person Join us for our Sweetheart Valentine’s Day Four-Course Wine Pairing Dinner. Bring your significant other or gather a small table of friends for a memorable evening of exceptional food and wine. A detailed menu will be released soon. *Reservations are required, with a 48-hour cancellation policy in effect.

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

Brunch‌ Menu‌

LETTER FROM THE CHEF 2025 was a year marked by both challenges and growth. Despite leadership changes across nearly every department, our Club continued to move forward and thrive. It was truly a remarkable year of progress here at Holston Hills. As we look ahead to 2026, the entire Food and Beverage team would like to wish you a Happy New Year and extend our sincere thanks to everyone who dined with us and

1st SUNDAY BRUNCH MENU SUNDAY, JANUARY 4th & SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1st 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Start your month off right with our delicious First Sunday of the month Brunch! Featuring Chef-curated dishes, classic brunch favorites, and seasonal specialties. We will feature the Brunch menu with our regular All-day menu returning at 2:00 PM.

joined us for our many events. We truly appreciate every one of you. We hope the new year starts without any holiday hangovers and that we’ll see you often at the Club!

HHCC BIRTHDAY NIGHTS

Birthday Nights will be held on January 7th and 21st, with February celebrations on the 4th and 18th. We’re also excited to continue our member-favorite Pastabilities Night on January 18th and February 5th. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Calling all members with a birthday in January and February! Come celebrate your special day with us at the Club and enjoy a complimentary entrée and Club dessert on one of our scheduled Birthday Nights. Simply make a reservation— we’ll take care of the rest!

Please also mark your calendars for our annual Valentine’s Day Wine Dinner on February 14th. The Sweetheart Pairing Dinner is sure to sell out, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early. This edition’s featured recipe is one of our most popular new menu items—Fried Chicken Dumplings. What truly makes this appetizer shine is our house-made Cashew Chili Crunch. We’re excited to share the recipe with you and hope you enjoy making it at home— from my kitchen to yours! Patrick Budniewski Executive Chef PBudniewski@HolstonHills.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7th and 21st WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4th and 18th

PASTABILITIES NIGHT THURSDAY, JANUARY 15th and THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5th | 5:00 PM (start) $17.95++ per person Dine in with us and let us create your pasta for you! A Chef will attend the Live Action Pasta Station, which will feature Marinara Sauce, Parmesan Cream Sauce, Nut Free Basil Pesto, two types of noodles, and a variety of toppings. *Reservations encouraged & Dine-in Only

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

Cashew Chili Crunch Recipe INGREDIENTS: 4 Cups Blended Oil ½ TBSP Ground Black Pepper 1 TBSP Smoked Paprika 1 Cup Crushed Red Chili Peppers

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½ Cup Slivered Garlic Cloves ½ TBSP Kosher Salt 1 Each Cinnamon Stick 2 TBSP Mild Chili Powder 2 Cups Roasted Cashew pieces

Carefully slice the garlic cloves very thin until you have about ½ cup of slivered garlic. Place the garlic in a small saucepan and pour the oil over the top. Add the cinnamon stick. Heat over low heat, slowly frying the garlic until it turns golden brown and crispy. While the garlic is cooking, combine the spices in a heat-safe metal bowl and set aside. Once the garlic is crispy, strain it and set it aside. Carefully pour the hot oil over the spice mixture, then add the cashews. Allow the mixture to steep for 15–20 minutes. While it steeps, discard the cinnamon stick and let the garlic cool completely. Once the garlic is cool and crisp, stir it into the mixture. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Chili Crunch Serving Ideas: Drizzle the chili oil over a bowl of ramen, or use it when making a stir-fry at home. It also makes a great addition to pepperoni pizza, adding a nice zip and pop of flavor. For something different, mix it into a salad dressing—such as ranch—to elevate a crudité platter or add extra flavor to a salad.

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TEE IT UP A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF GOLF Dear Holston Hills Members, As we bring another memorable year to a close, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for your continued support, enthusiasm, and passion for the game that makes this community so special. It has been a privilege to serve as your Director of Golf and to watch our membership continue to thrive, both on and off the course. This year was marked by tremendous growth and meaningful change. One of the most significant moments of 2025 was the transition of longtime Head Golf Professional Chris Dibble, who departed for a wonderful new opportunity in Pawleys Island at our sister club, The Reserve Golf Club. Chris dedicated thirty-three years of service to Holston Hills, and his influence on this club is immeasurable. His professionalism, integrity, and warmth shaped generations of golfers and created a legacy that will continue to guide us for years to come. Holston Hills simply would not be what it is today without his steady leadership and genuine love for this membership. Beyond being an outstanding professional, Chris is a remarkable person and friend, and we wish him every success in this next chapter. It has also been incredibly rewarding to see so many families engaged in the game. Junior golf continued to flourish, couples’ evenings grew in popularity, and more members than ever took advantage of clinics, coaching programs, and casual play. The course has become not only a place to compete, but a place to learn, unwind, connect, and enjoy the camaraderie that defines Holston Hills. Your enthusiasm creates the vibrant atmosphere that makes our Club a place members are proud to call home. I would also like to recognize our golf staff for their dedication and adaptability throughout the season. Their commitment to delivering exceptional service and elevating the member experience continues to raise the standard for our golf operation. Josh, Dylan, Tee-Time Tom, Jake, and Ethan help bring our vision to life each day, and we are fortunate to have every one of them on our team. As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited to build on this momentum with expanded programming, continued improvements to the overall golf experience, and even more opportunities to connect as a community. Your involvement and support make this progress possible, and I am sincerely grateful for the trust you place in us. On behalf of the entire golf team, I wish you and your families a joyful holiday season and a wonderful start to the new year. We look forward to seeing you on the course in 2026. Warm regards, Christian Melson, PGA | Director of Golf CMelson@HolstonHills.com

PARENT CHILD GOLF TOURNAMENT We wrapped up our 2025 tournament season with our annual Parent Child 9-Hole Scramble. Due to the weather, we had to reschedule it to the 2nd Sunday in November.

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TEE IT UP

MEET THE GOLF OPS TEAM

As we kick off the 2026 golf season, be sure to stop by the Golf Shop and say hello to our Golf Ops Team! They’re your go-to resource for all things golf—from tournaments and handicaps to monthly locker and bag storage. The team can also help schedule individual or small-group lessons and assist with all your golf apparel needs. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, they’re here to help make your season a great one.

Josh D. Delorme, PGA Assistant Professional JDelorme@HolstonHills.com

Dylan Moncus, PGA Ethan Rimmer Assistant Professional Assistant Professional DMoncus@HolstonHills.com ERimmer@HolstonHills.com

Tom (Tee Time) Seymour Golf Operations & Starter TSeymour@HolstonHills.com

Jake Mynatt Golf Operations

VISIT KNOXVILLE OPEN Happy 2026, Holston Hills Country Club members! We hope you’re as excited about the year ahead as we are and all the great things planned for the Visit Knoxville Open, taking place May 18–24! As we begin the new year, we plan to host Member Q&A sessions at the Club to give you an opportunity to learn more about the tournament and ask questions directly to our team. Be on the lookout for invitations to those sessions beginning in January. Many of you were kind enough to introduce yourselves at events this fall and ask about volunteering. We’re excited to share that the volunteer registration portal is expected to open in January! As a member, there is no fee to volunteer, and you’ll receive an exclusive member shirt and hat. We are especially looking for member support in key areas, including Player and Caddie Services, Pro-Am Committee, Clubhouse and Locker Room, Hospitality, and Tournament Ambassadors. If you’re interested in chairing a specific committee, please email Jamie Stokes at jstokes@tngolf.org to learn more. We look forward to an exciting 2026 and are thrilled to share this tournament experience with our Holston Hills members. Thank you for your continued support, and we can’t wait to see you at the Club in the months ahead.

Mike Hammontree | VP, External Operations Tennessee Golf Foundation MHammontree@TNGolf.org Cell: 352-422-7722

STAY SOCIAL MEDIA Stay connected to Visit Knoxville Open on social media and join the conversation today.

@visitknoxvilleopen

WEBSITE Visit the Visit Knoxville Open website for more information about the tournament, volunteer options, and contact information.

https://www.vkopen.com/

@visitknoxvilleopen

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- HOLSTON HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 2026 GOLF CALENDAR TOURNAMENTS 9 Mar 16-18 Mar 26 Mar 8 Apr 24-25 Apr 18-24 May 25 May 8 Jun 11-13 Jun 4 July 7 July 25-26 July

Knoxville PGA Pro-Am Aeration (Course Closed) Dogfight Begins Master’s Par 3 Tournament Member-Member KFT-Visit Knoxville Open Memorial Day Shotgun HRMC Outing Donald Ross Invit. Member-Guest July 4th Shotgun Kids Play Free Outing Men’s & Ladies’ Club Championships

10 Aug 11-13 Aug 7 Sep 18-19 Sep 21 Sep 3-4 Oct 12 Oct 22 Oct 1 Nov

Patricia Neal “Fall Classic” Aeration (Course Closed) Labor Day Shotgun Smoky Mtn. Shootout Emerald Youth Outing Men’s & Ladies’ Senior Club Championships Breakthrough Autism Golf Outing Dog Fight: The BIG One Parent/Child

COUPLES LEAGUE - Sunday afternoon, 9 Hole 19 Apr 30 Aug 28 Jun 27 Sep 19 July 25 Oct TBD: MCG - Solheim Cup and MCG - Ryder Cup

LADIES’ EVENTS 7 Apr 8 Apr 5 May 3 Jun 1 July 26 July 5 Aug 2 Sep 29 Sep 30 Sep 4 Oct 28 Oct

Interclub Masters Par 3 Ladies 18-hole Event Ladies 18-hole Event Freedom Classic Ladies’ Club Championship Member-Member Big Orange KAWGA Play Day Ladies’ Guest Day Ladies’ Senior Club Championship Trick-or-Treat Scramble

FITTING DAYS

Callaway | Titleist | PING | Mizuno

9-HOLE LEAGUES LADIES - TUESDAYS | MEN - WEDNESDAYS Starting after Daylight Saving!

WINTER MATCH PLAY December – February

DOGFIGHTS - EVERY THURSDAY April – October | 12:00 PM (shotgun start) | $20

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JUNIOR EVENTS 10 Jan 12 Apr 2-4 Jun 16-19 Jun 30 Jun-2 July 14-17 July 4 Oct

Winter Golf: Swing Into Spring Junior Golf Drive, Chip & Putt Junior Golf Camp (ages: 6-12) JHS Golf Camp Junior Golf Camp (ages: 6-12) HS Golf Camp Junior Club Championship

PGA Junior League: May-August Registration Opens: March 14 | First Practice: May 16 Jr Interclub River Rivalry Match at CCC: August 8

OPERATION36 GOLF ACADEMIES: Men’s, Women’s & Juniors

Spring Semester: March 7-May 2 | Summer Semester: June 2-July 18 | Fall Semester: August 8October TBD

GOLF COURSE TIMES DAILY 9:00am: Jan.–Mar. & Nov.–Dec. 8:00am: Apr.–Sept. 14 | 8:30am: Sept. 16–Oct. GOLF SHOP NUMBER: 865.525.0626

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TURF TALK 2025 Marks 25 Years at Holston Hills As 2025 has come and gone, it’s hard to believe another year is already behind us. This year was especially meaningful for me, as I celebrated my 25th year here at the Club. Looking back over that time, it’s remarkable to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together. I will never forget my first Christmas party at the Club. I had only been here a few weeks and was still in the process of meeting everyone for the first time. Now, I find myself on the other side of the equation as one of the senior staff members, with only a few employees remaining from that very first year. The course has changed tremendously over the past 25 years—so much so that I believe many members wouldn’t even recognize some of the photos from my early days here. While it’s difficult to highlight all of the changes over the years, looking back, here are a few of my personal favorites.

The Turf Facility may not be a high priority in most members’ eyes, but as a Superintendent, it is incredibly meaningful to finally have a building to call home. I fondly remember those early years, when the Turf Facility was far from inviting. Located in a field at the end of a long dirt road, the shop had no parking lot and was difficult to access. The building itself lacked a breakroom, office space, and even heat. I certainly don’t miss my truck being covered in mud every day—or those long winter days. The equipment in place when I first arrived was also well past its useful life. I remember signing our first equipment lease, when a fairway mower, for example, cost $32,000. This year, as part of our equipment package, the cost of that same mower has increased to $104,000—quite a difference from my first year at the Club. Trees on a golf course are always a touchy subject, but from the very beginning, we focused on removing trees to open up views across the property that had been hidden for years. It’s hard to believe now, but pine trees once stood between many green complexes—such as between the 7th green and the 8th tee boxes. Old, broken pines lined numerous holes, encroaching on playing corridors and creating ongoing issues with debris and exposed roots. Even the lower fairway on the 7th hole was once completely blocked by pine trees. I am not against trees on a golf course; however, restoring the openness of the course to what you see today truly defines Holston Hills.

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TURF TALK (CONT.) Turf quality has improved significantly over the years as tree removal opened playing corridors and increased both sunlight and airflow. With this added openness, we began mowing chipping areas around the putting surfaces as you see them today and incorporated walk paths and connected tee boxes into the greens’ surrounds. Over time, we have also continued to introduce fescue and native grasses to complement our highly maintained turf areas. One of the most dramatic course improvements over the years has been our bunkering. In my early days, the bunkers were more dirt than sand. After heavy rain, they held water until we physically pumped them out. The complete bunker rebuild in 2006 was a major step forward, resulting in significant labor savings and a dramatic improvement in playability. Most recently, in 2024, we rebuilt the bunkers again, allowing us to incorporate the latest advancements in drainage technology while also installing a higher-quality sand. Today, I am confident that we could experience a major rainstorm one day and still be able to hand-rake all the bunkers the very next day without issue.

With so many projects completed over the years, there are very few areas of the course that we haven’t touched in some way. We have rebuilt the main driving range three times, and I still remember when it consisted of just one small tee box—far different from the three tee boxes you see today. We built the West Practice Green to allow for more space for putting practice and added the East Practice Green to better support shortgame work. Over the years, we have added numerous tee boxes and completely refreshed the Club’s landscaping multiple times. We have also made major investments behind the scenes, including replacing the main irrigation pump station—the heart of our irrigation system—constructing a new transfer station to move water from the Holston River to our holding pond, and digging up and replacing every irrigation head on the property multiple times along the way. It has been an amazing 25 years, and I look forward to all the changes that still lie ahead. Ryan Blair, CGCS | Certified Golf Course Superintendent RBlair@HolstonHills.com

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INSIDE MCCONNELL GOLF Inside McConnell Golf brings you a closer look at everything happening across our family of clubs. With each newsletter edition, we’ll highlight company-wide initiatives, exciting updates, ongoing renovations, member-focused improvements, and key marketing news — all in one place. Stay informed, be part of the story, and see what’s buzzing around McConnell Golf.

2026 GOLF SCHEDULE COMING SOON

MCCONNELL GOLF, THE MAGAZINE: FALL/WINTER The 2025 Fall/Winter edition is now available! With over 10,500 readers across 12 markets, the magazine embodies the community spirit of McConnell Golf. Each edition features engaging member stories, club updates, event highlights, and more. Looking ahead to our 2026 Spring/Summer edition, we’re excited to offer opportunities for full-page ads, half-page ads, and directory listings. To learn more or secure your spot, contact your club’s membership director today.

Scheduled for a January release, the 2026 McConnell Golf schedule booklet features all the information you need to get ready for the upcoming golf season. From club tournament dates to golf shop hours and instructional lesson rates, you’ll have a compact guide right at your fingertips. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, stay in the loop with a calendar that will take the hassle out of planning your next round at McConnell Golf. COBBLESTONE GOLF CLUB

WHAT’S NEW IN THE NEW YEAR? COURSE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS IN 2026 Cobblestone Golf Club: Beginning in Fall 2025, Cobblestone Golf Club will undergo a major renovation on the Black 9 course, rebuilding all bunkers with Capillary Concrete liners and new sand, improving drainage, and installing new concrete cart paths with select rerouting and tree removal. The same work will follow on the Garnet 9 course, with completion targeted for Spring 2026. During construction, the nine holes under renovation will be closed. The Water’s Edge Country Club: After Memorial Day, The Water’s Edge will close the course to convert all bentgrass fairways and tees to Bermudagrass, with a 10–12 week grow-in and a planned reopening by Labor Day. The club will also begin practice facility upgrades, including a redesigned first hole, a relocated putting green, and an expanded driving range tee near the clubhouse. These enhancements will elevate the overall golf experience and position the club for long-term success.

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INSIDE MCCONNELL GOLF

MCCONNELL GOLF PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION Discover our curated collection of imagery capturing the beauty and character of McConnell Golf properties. From fairway to frame, give the gift of stunning photography, thoughtfully captured by the McConnell Golf team. In partnership with SmugMug and White House Custom Colour (WHCC), we are proud to offer exclusive, customizable photo products — from framed prints to canvas wall art and tabletop displays — shipped directly to your home. Visit McConnellGolf.SmugMug.com to explore the collection. Don’t see your club featured yet? Check back throughout 2026 — we’ll continue expanding our gallery with new photography from across our portfolio.

JOHN MCCONNELL HONORED WITH INAUGURAL KORN FERRY TOUR “BEYOND THE GREEN” AWARD On December 11, John McConnell was recognized by the Korn Ferry Tour as the inaugural recipient of its new “Beyond the Green” Award during the tour’s annual tournament meetings at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. The award was created to recognize an individual whose impact on the Tour extends beyond tournament operations—someone who leads with integrity, supports collaboration, and consistently elevates the experience for players, partners, and communities. We congratulate John on this well-deserved honor and are proud to see his leadership and impact recognized by the Korn Ferry Tour.

CLUB CONNECTION BLOG: 2025 IN PHOTOS, TOP 365 IMAGES FROM THE YEAR Take a look at the highlights of McConnell Golf’s incredible year through a collection of 365 photos captured across our footprint. From pristine fairways designed by legendary architects like Donald Ross and Pete Dye, to unforgettable moments from PGA, Korn Ferry Tour, and amateur events, these images capture the essence of what makes McConnell Golf a leader in its industry. This collection also showcases the elegance of our clubhouse interiors, the vibrant energy of member events, and the special moments that bring our community together. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this year a success—our dedicated members, whose passion and engagement fuel our community, and our exceptional staff, whose unwavering commitment and hard work make it all possible. Visit ClubConnection.blog to view the photo recap in addition to other articles covering the stories that make McConnell Golf special.

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TENNIS

FROM THE FROM THE COURT COURT

Highlights from

2025

2025 was a fantastic year on the courts at Holston Hills, marked by great matches, strong participation, and continued growth within our tennis community. From well-attended clinics and leagues to fun social events and competitive play, it was a year that showcased the energy and camaraderie of HHCC Tennis.

Hello Holston Hills Membership, Winter is here! We’ve had a fantastic year of tennis at Holston Hills—filled with great memories, new friendships, and fun events throughout 2025— and we’re just getting started. I’m incredibly excited to see what 2026 has in store for our tennis program. I’m also thrilled to once again share that pickleball is coming to Holston Hills! This project has been a personal goal of mine since I started here nearly five years ago. Construction is scheduled to begin on April 6, with completion expected in early summer. The project will include four brandnew pickleball courts and one hard tennis court, opening the door to new clinics, events, camps, and tournaments. I can’t wait to bring this exciting addition to the Club. As we head into the coldest months of the year, I’d like to remind everyone to please keep a close eye on the clay courts. If the courts are frozen or mushy, please stay off them to help prevent damage. Additionally, clinics will be canceled if temperatures drop below 40°F. If you ever have questions about court conditions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We’re putting the final touches on the HHCC 2026 Tennis Schedule—packed with leagues, tournaments, clinics, and social play opportunities. Keep an eye on your email and the HHCC website, as the full schedule will be released very soon. We can’t wait to see you on the courts in 2026!

As always, I look forward to seeing you on the courts. Wishing you and your families a wonderful holiday season and a very Happy New Year!

Jacob Fuqua, USPTA | Director of Tennis Cell: 828.808.3122 | Tennis Shop: 865.523.4131 Email: JFuqua@HolstonHills.com

WINTER LESSON SPECIAL Must be used by March 1st

Buy 4 get one free ($260) Buy 6 get 2 free ($390) THE TEE OFF

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KIDS CLUB

KNO: MARIO PARTY NIGHT FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 | 5:30 - 8:00 PM $20 per child

Dear Holston Hills CC Members, Happy New Year to my wonderful Holston Herd kids! You all filled the end of 2025 with so much joy, laughter, and energy, and I’m truly grateful for every moment we shared. I can’t wait for all the fun we’ll create together in the year ahead! Speaking of, we're kicking off January and February with a burst of energy and a calendar full of fun to chase away the winter blues. From Kids’ Night Outs to club-wide events, we're setting the tone for an exciting year ahead at Holston Hills. And yes, we're already dreaming of sunshine, splashy days, and all of the adventures coming your way at 2026 Kids Summer Camps. Let's make 2026 our most playful and memorable year yet! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out!

Back by popular demand, join us for a fun-filled night as kids battle in minigames and race in Mario Kart! *Dinner & treat included!

KNO: THE HOLSTON HERD FEUD FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27th | 5:30 - 8:00 PM Ages: 6 & Up $20 per child It’s time to feud! Join us in the Kids Club for Kids Night Out featuring The Holston Herd Feud—an evening packed with age-appropriate game show challenges, laughter, and friendly competition. Kids will team up for an enjoyable night of fun while parents enjoy a night out! *Dinner & snack included!

~ Shearer Ashley | Activities Director Email: Activities@HolstonHills.com

½ Day Camp: DINO DISCOVERY DAY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28th | 12:30 - 4:00 PM $20 per child It’s a Half Day for Knox County Schools. We will be offering a ½ day camp in the Kids Club area. Get ready as kids step into the role of a Paleontologist for the afternoon! You can pack a lunch or purchase one through the club for an additional $5.00.

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KNO: Polar Express Night Photos by: Dara Jenkins

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FITNESS HOLSTON HILLS CC

PERSONAL TRAINING New Year Offers LEAN PROGRAM

A Program designed to help you build muscle, burn fat, and sculpt a strong, defined physique. Using a blend of resistance training, higher-rep metabolic sets, and strategic full-body workouts, this program boosts your metabolism while maintaining lean muscle for a toned, athletic look.

LINEAR WEIGHT LIFTING PROGRAM

A Program to build full-body strength through consistent, steady increases in load. Gradually increasing intensity each week to stimulate muscle growth and improve lifting technique. This program develops balanced strength, reinforces proper mechanics, and promotes long-term progress. Ideal for beginners learning the fundamentals or experienced lifters seeking reliable and measurable gains.

SAQ PROGRAM

A Program on Performance-driven training designed to enhance an athlete's ability to move faster, react quicker, and change direction with greater control and efficiency. Combining dynamic movement drills, plyometrics, reaction-based exercises, and technique-focused training to build explosive power, sharpen neuromuscular coordination, and improve total athletic responsiveness.

YOGA CLASS with Suzanne TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS | 10:00 - 11:00 AM WEDNESDAYS | 6:00 - 7:00 PM $10 per class An introductory yoga class accessible to most people, this session follows an Iyengar-style format focused on form, detail, precision, and alignment. The class generally moves at a slower pace, with controlled movements and stretches synchronized with the breath. Questions? Contact Suzanne Dismukes at 865-256-8903.

Turkey Trot & Fun Run 5K Winners 1st (Women) and overall: Kate Brosnan - with a time of 24:48 1st (Men): Casey Burroughs with a time of 29:17 2nd (Men): Carson Broadrick with a time of 29:50 2nd (Women): Lisa Wiles with a time of 30:03

SPORT SPECIFIC TRAINING PROGRAM

Build strength that directly transfers to performance in your sport. Each workout targets the exact muscle groups, movement patterns, and power demands required for your position and playing style. Through tailored strength cycles, explosive power training, and corrective mobility work, athletes develop greater force production, improved stability, and increased durability throughout the season. Book NOW! Jazz Gordon | Fitness Trainer Cell: 865.237.1975 Email: jgordon@holstonhills.com

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THE HEART OF HOLSTON HILLS MEET SOME OF THE TEAM MEMBERS Meet Ethan Rimmer! We are excited to recognize Ethan Rimmer, a valued member of our Golf Operations team, who was recently promoted to a full-time Assistant Golf Professional. Ethan began his journey at Holston Hills as a part-time outside golf cart attendant and also worked with us seasonally over the years. He is no stranger to Holston Hills Country Club, having grown up here through our Junior Golf program. Ethan played golf throughout high school and graduated from Carter High School in 2019. His dedication to the game led him to earn a golf scholarship to Carson-Newman University, where he competed on the golf team for all four years and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management.

ETHAN RIMMER Assistant Golf Professional

Born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, Ethan is blessed with two amazing parents, Scott and Lisa, two sisters, Annie and Sarah, and two golden retrievers, Maggie and Ellie.

Reflecting on his journey, Ethan shared, “Holston has always had a special place in my heart. Growing up here through the junior golf program and now serving as a golf professional, I can’t thank everyone enough for the opportunity. Golf is something I have always loved, and it has helped me get where I am today.” This winter, Ethan will begin the PGA Golf Professional Program as he continues to grow his career in the game. We are proud to have him as part of the Holston Hills family and look forward to what’s ahead for him! Swing by the Golf Shop to meet Ethan!

Congratulations! A Christmas to remember! Congratulations to Ethan and Lexi on their recent engagement—so exciting for the Rimmer family.

Meet Roy & Angel Palmer! Roy has been a part of the Holston Hills family for 25 years. He began working part-time in both the kitchen and maintenance before moving into a full-time maintenance role after his first year. Shortly thereafter, Roy was promoted to Maintenance Supervisor and has worn many hats over the years, always stepping in wherever needed. Angel has also supported Holston Hills in various roles over the years, from driving the beverage cart to assisting with housekeeping and special maintenance projects. Over a year ago, she officially joined the team full-time as Supervisor of Housekeeping & Special Projects.

Roy & Angel Palmer Maintenance Supervisor Housekeeping & Special Projects Supervisor

Married for 25 years (and together for 30), Roy and Angel have built a beautiful life together. They have five children and nine grandchildren. Even while balancing work and busy family schedules, Angel earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Administration. They work seamlessly as a team, and it’s rare to see one without the other. Both Roy and Angel are active members of their church (Open Doors Outreach Ministry), where Roy serves

as a deacon, and Angel leads the music as Song Leader. Each year, they generously volunteer their time organizing school supply collections and toy drives for families in need. This year alone, Angel crocheted nearly 150 hats to donate to children within their church and community. Roy shared, “We have enjoyed working at Holston Hills over the years and have seen many changes—from staffing and membership to the look of the building. Our favorite part is that we are more like family than coworkers. Many members have become close friends and feel like family. We truly love working here, and it has been a privilege over the years.”

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January SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY 1

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Golf Course OPEN! Dining CLOSED!

F&B: Sunday Brunch Menu @11am-2pm

Fitness: Yoga Class

Jr. Golf: Swing into Spring

F&B: Birthday Night

HHCC Staff Celebration Party!

Event: Family SINGO

Fitness: Yoga Class

Club Closing at 4:30 PM

Fitness: Yoga Class

Kids Club: KNO

F&B: PASTABILITIES Night

Fitness: Yoga Class F&B: Birthday Night

27 Fitness: Yoga Class

Jr. Golf: Swing into Spring

National Peanut Butter Day

Fitness: Yoga Class

New Member

Kids Club: ½ day camp LIVE Music

February SUNDAY

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

F&B: Birthday Night

FRIDAY 6

Winter Olympics Feb. 6-22

F&B: PASTABILITIES Night

Fitness: Yoga Class

Fitness: Yoga Class Event: Family

Fitness: Yoga Class

F&B: Sweetheart Wine Pairing Dinner

Fitness: Yoga Class

Father Daughter Dance

F&B: Birthday Night

24 Fitness: Yoga Class

SATURDAY

Fitness: Yoga Class

F&B: Sunday Brunch Menu @11am-2pm

TUESDAY

26 Fitness: Yoga Class

New Member LIVE Music Kids Club: KNO

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PHOTO GALLERY Breakfast with SANTA Photos by: Lauren Fuqua Email: LaurenFuquaPhotography@gmail.com Instagram: @LaurenFuquaPhotography

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Holston Hills Country Club 5200 Holston Hills Rd. Knoxville, TN 37914

MCCONNELL GOLF’S COOKIES OF THE MONTH

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

BROWN BUTTER CHOCOLATE CHIP TOFFEE COOKIES Dry Ingredients BY: MICHAEL MONAHAN, EXECUTIVE CHEF AT THE COUNTRY CLUB OF ASHEVILLE Ingredients: Brown Butter Base

2 lb all-purpose flour 1 Tbsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder

Mix-ins 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips 8 oz toffee bits (Heath or similar)

1 lb unsalted butter 1 lb light brown sugar, packed ½ lb granulated sugar 4 each large eggs VIEW THE FULL RECIPE AT: 2 Tbsp pure vanilla extract https://www.clubconnection.blog 1 tsp kosher salt

/2026cookies/jan

APRICOT, CRAISIN, ORANGE ALMOND COOKIE BY: JOHN CRAWFORD, EXECUTIVE CHEF AT RALEIGH COUNTRY CLUB & LYNN HART, PASTRY CHEF AT RALEIGH COUNTRY CLUB Ingredients: ½ Cup Chopped Craisins 1/4 Cup Chopped Apricots ¼ Cup Chopped Almonds Zest and Juice 1 Orange (you will need 2 Table Spoons of Juice)

2 Cups Flour ½ Cup Sugar ½ teaspoon Salt 1 Cup Chilled Butter Cubes 1 teaspoon almond extract

VIEW THE FULL RECIPE AT:

https://www.clubconnection.blog/2026cookies/feb