WE 2026 January/February Newsletter by McConnell Golf

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

THE NAVIGATOR ________________________

THE WATER’S EDGE COUNTRY CLUB

WATER’S W A T E R ’ S EDGE EDGE

AA M MC CC CO ON NN NE EL LL L G GO OL LF F P PR RO OP PE ER RT TY Y

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The Water’s Edge Club Professionals Robert Lambert | Club Manager rlambert@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556

Jodi Gourley | Assistant Club Manager jgourley@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556

Ruth Rice | Member Services Director rrice@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-524-9075

John Hanek | Executive Chef chef@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556

Jeff Snyder | Golf Course Superintendent jsnyder@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3734

Donald Huston | Asst. Golf Course Superintendent dhuston@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3734

Mike Abraham | PGA Director of Golf mabraham@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3343

Casey Hodges | Assistant Golf Pro chodges@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3343

Kristina Wray | Equestrian Center Manager barn@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-2714

John Guthmann | Head Tennis Pro tennis@watersedgecountryclub.com 434-927-5039

Cortney Herndon | Personal Fitness Trainer fitand functionpt@gmail.com

Chase Scarce | Physical Therapy Assistant fitand functionpt@gmail.com

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CONTENTS

FACILITY HOURS Golf Shop Tuesday - Sunday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Driving Range

11-15

McConnell Properties

Upcoming Events

16-17

Contact Information

Club News

18-19

Table of Contents

Photo Gallery

5-9 Club Updates

10 Fitness

20-21 Cookie of the Month

22-23 Inside McConnell Golf

Monday | Closed Tuesday through Saturday | 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sunday | Range 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Club Phone Numbers Clubhouse: (540) 576-1556 Golf Pro Shop: (540) 576-3343 Member Services (540) 524-9075 Equestrian Center: (540) 576-2714 Personal Trainer: (540) 493-7388

Community Contact Information AEP: (800)-277-2177 For power outages VDOT: (800)-367-7623 For downed trees blocking state-maintained roads

TAKE OUT Tuesday | Effective January - March No Dining Services provided Wednesday – Saturday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM* *Dinner take out orders need to be placed by 5:30 PM & picked up by 6:00 PM; pizzas available until 8:00 PM Sunday | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Stay Connected! Follow The Water’s Edge Country Club on social media.

Call (540)-576-1556 to place your order.

Gym Hours Access through the club See above club hours App Access Hours 5:30 AM- 9:00 PM

Equestrian Center 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM

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Manager's Message ROBERT LAMBERT, CLUB MANAGER After a joyful holiday season, we are delighted to welcome 2026! We wish each of you a Happy New Year filled with laughter,

Our Wine Club thrived with engaging tastings and two exceptional wine dinners hosted by Chef John and his talented

blessings, and unforgettable moments. To our wonderful members and their families—thank you for

culinary team. We were thrilled to see such wonderful participation in events like Footloose Fridays, Meet Your Neighbor, Holiday Cookouts, and Footprints on the Green. Your

making 2025 so special. Your warmth and spirit are what truly set The Water’s Edge Country Club apart, creating a vibrant

enthusiasm and support mean so much to all of us, and we truly value the spirited community you help create. As always, if

community that feels like family. As we step into the new year, we look forward to building even more cherished memories

there is anything we can do to further elevate your experience at the club, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any

together. Here’s to a year of joy, connection, and celebration at Water’s Edge!

member of our dedicated team. The completion of the day docks, along with Ruth Rice’s

We want to thank each of you who contributed to the Employee

dedicated efforts, contributed to another outstanding year for

Christmas Fund. Your kindness and generosity meant so much to our staff. Every department plays a vital role in creating the

membership growth, retention, and initiation fees. In 2025, we proudly welcomed 40 new members, achieving a net increase

welcoming, memorable experience that makes Water’s Edge so

of 12 and bringing our total to 475 memberships. With this

special. Because of your support, our team feels truly appreciated and inspired to continue exceeding expectations for our wonderful community.

strong momentum, we look forward to another successful and memorable year in 2026.

A sincere thank you to Ruth Rice for leading our holiday decorating committee with such care and creativity. We would also like to recognize Barbara Beck, Lee Jankus, Cathy Green, Sue Elwell, and Kathie Schwend for generously giving their time and talent to help bring the vision to life. Thanks to your hard work, the club looked absolutely beautiful this holiday season, and we are so grateful for the joy you helped create! Last year marked a changing of the guard in our golf division with the retirement of Ed Currin. We welcomed Michael Abraham as our new Director of Golf. Mike brings fresh, creative ideas to our tournaments, and I look forward to working with him throughout a full season as we continue to elevate the golf experience at Water’s Edge.

Together, our dedicated staff will continue striving to make The Water’s Edge Country Club the very best it can be. I truly value your thoughts, suggestions, and ideas, and I encourage you to stop by anytime to share them with me. With your support and partnership, I look forward to an exciting and memorable year ahead in 2026!

NOTICE OF UPDATED HOURS OF OPERATION EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1 THROUGH MARCH: • Dining Services will be closed on Tuesdays. • Fitness Center access will remain available via the Paxton App. • Golf Shop will be open, weather permitting.

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Welcome New Members

Member Services Message RUTH RICE, MEMBER SERVICES DIRECTOR

MICHAEL & KELLY WEST

Happy New Year! I hope each of you enjoyed a wonderful holiday season. I would like to thank Cathy Green, Barbara Beck, Lee Jankus, Sue Elwell and Kathy Schwend who generously gave their time and creativity to help decorate the club for the holidays. Your efforts truly transformed the space and brought warmth, cheer, and festive spirit to

Class V Social membership

LEAH & MARK ESPER Class IV Invitational Golf membership

JOSH & MADISON HORWITZ Class IV Invitational Golf membership

the entire club. We are so grateful for your help and for the joy you bring to our club— thank you for making the season so special! As we move into January and February, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and engagement. We are excited to begin 2026 with fresh energy and a renewed commitment to delivering exceptional service and memorable experiences throughout the year. Over the next two months, we have several events and initiatives planned to help you start the year on a positive note. Thank you for being a valued part of our community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there is anything our team can assist you with—we are always here to help. Reminders: Notary services are available at the sales office. Call me to set up an appointment. You will need to present identification such as an identification card, driver’s license, passport, etc. Reservations are recommended when you come to the club for lunch or dinner, and required for special events. You can make reservations online, through the McConnell app or by calling the club at 540-576-1556. Quarterly food minimums are available. Class I and Class V are $250 per quarter. Class II, III and VI are $175 per quarter Make sure we have your birthday (including the year) in the system so you can take advantage of the free meal on Birthday Night.

Marina Bay would like to extend their sincere thanks to Turner’s Dock Building LLC and Sole Source Solution Luxury Homes, the contractors who generously funded and completed the recent repairs to the boat ramp at Marina Bay within The Water’s Edge community. The ramp was in dire condition and in need of significant repairs, and their expertise, hard work, and attention to detail were instrumental in restoring it to a safe and functional state. Their efforts and generosity have made access to the water safe once again! We truly appreciate their professionalism, dedication, and willingness to invest in our community, and we are extremely grateful for their outstanding contribution.

Welcome New Members The Horwitz family is from Northern Virginia and continues to live there, but Smith Mountain Lake will be their second home—a dream they have had for many years. They are thrilled to have a beautiful retreat to escape to and are especially excited to share it with friends and family, creating lasting memories in their new lakeside home. Josh enjoys racing cars at the nearby VIR track, while his wife, Madison, loves reading and immersing herself in interior design projects around the home. Much of their time is devoted to their children, 7-year-old Leena and 5-year-old Harrison. As a family, they enjoy playing video games, board games, and other activities that bring them together and create special moments. The family was drawn to Smith Mountain Lake for its breathtaking scenery and unique proximity to the mountains. They were impressed by how well-maintained and peaceful the lake is and are delighted to join The Water’s Edge community. This summer, they plan to spend time on the water, teaching Leena and Harrison to tube and water ski, and making the most of all the recreational opportunities the lake offers. The Horwitz’s are looking forward to becoming active members of the community, meeting new neighbors, and fully embracing life at Smith Mountain Lake.

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GOLF NEWS MIKE ABRAHAM, PGA | DIRECTOR OF GOLF Happy New Year! I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday season and are excited for a new year! Personally, this is a milestone year for me, turning the big 4-0 in February! Which means I’ve been playing golf for 30 years! Really hard to believe that what started out as swinging and missing five straight times on the driving range with my dad has turned into a career and passion. Through the golf knowledge I’ve gained the past 30 years I want to be able to share that knowledge with you! Even though it’s cold right now, don’t let the weather stop you from working on your game this winter. With our indoor simulator we’re able to give lessons and block time for you to hit balls or play a round of golf! 2026 will bring changes not only to the golf course but also our golf calendar. With the golf course set for renovations after Memorial Day, we are going to get in as much golf as possible! Here are some important dates for the spring: Ladies Opening Day – April 2 Men’s Opening Day – April 4 Ladies Member-Guest – April 30/May 1 Men’s Member-Guest – May 14-16 Course Closing – May 26 Our goal is to have the course open for play around Labor Day. Please visit the Member Calendar on the website for a posting of all golf events for 2026. The first golf tournament of the year will happen on Saturday, February 7 (weather pending) and will be our ‘Super Bowl Golf Tournament’. Keep an eye out for more information on this event! Members are also encouraged to make use of our state-of-the-art golf simulator during the off-season. It’s an excellent way to keep your skills sharp, track your progress, and enjoy a round of golf with friends even when the weather turns cold. Enjoy the offseason and get ready to hit the ground running once the weather turns!

Congratulations to John Dickinson, who recorded an impressive hole-in-one on November 19 while playing the beautiful Buccaneer Golf Course in St. Croix. John aced Buccaneer #3 from 110 yards with a gap wedge—achieving an ace is a remarkable accomplishment anywhere, but doing so on a course as scenic and challenging as the Buccaneer makes it even more memorable. Well done, John!

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EQUESTRIAN CENTER NEWS KRISTINA WRAY, EQUESTRIAN CENTER MANAGER Happy New Year to The Water’s Edge families, riders and barn friends! We hope your holiday season was full of joy, relaxation, and special moments with loved ones. January kicks off with our team focusing on winter maintenance, horse care routines, and continued improvements around the barn. Our staff has been hard at work ensuring each horse receives the proper winter care—from layered blanketing to adjusted feeding schedules and indoor/outdoor rotations. The herd is happy, healthy, and enjoying plenty of movement to stay limber despite the chilly weather. As we wrap up an exciting year at the Equestrian Center, we wanted to share a look back at all the amazing things that happened in 2025. From upgrades around the barn to new boarders, and expanded programs—this year was full of progress, teamwork, and joy. So grab a cozy drink, settle in, and enjoy the highlights of another wonderful year at the barn! 2025 was a year of rolling up our sleeves and making The Water’s Edge Equestrian Center even better. This year, we officially gained our very own maintenance department, and WOW has it made a difference! No more hours spent tracking down help or juggling emergency repairs—we finally have smooth, efficient support for everything from fixing fence lines to maintaining the facility. It’s one of the biggest changes we’ve ever made, and it has already transformed daily life at the barn! A huge portion of the barn’s fencing received repairs or full replacements early in the year. While it was a massive project (and delayed some of our spring events!)It has made the property safer, cleaner, and more welcoming for everyone. We improved training routines, and continued investing in better equipment—all to support a safer, smoother riding experience. We proudly reached 7 full-time boarders, the most in our barns history! Even better—most of these horses belong to club members, and several new families joined the club specifically to be part of our equestrian community. This milestone truly speaks to the growth and momentum happening at the barn. We hosted 8 different camps with a total of 72 campers! Kids enjoyed: New water bottles and T-shirts, fresh games and crafts, horse handling activities, and lots of laughs. We wrapped up our camp season with our Fall Camp with 18 campers in attendance , and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. From the moment the kids arrived, the barn was filled with laughter, excitement, and nonstop energy—exactly what we love to see! Campers enjoyed horseback riding, pizza, snacks, and using their creative skills to make our annual Christmas ornaments and snowman slime! Because our maintenance team now handles repairs, we finally have the freedom to hopefully bring more of our ideas to life next year. If you have any suggestions of what events you would like to see happen at the barn, we would love to hear your thoughts. We want 2026 to be our most engaging, family-friendly, horse-filled year yet—and we can’t wait to share it with you. To our boarders, riders, families, campers, and club members: Thank you for supporting our barn, our staff, and our horses throughout 2025. Your enthusiasm and love for the equestrian center are what keep us motivated to improve, grow, and create unforgettable experiences. Here’s to more rides, more memories, and more barn magic in 2026!

Services Offered Trail Rides Ring Rides Riding lessons for all ages Boarding Summer & Fall Horse Camp Horse leasing Birthday parties Private parties

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COURSE UPDATE JEFF SNYDER, GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT We’re still golfing! As of this writing (December 9th), it’s 25 degrees—but we’re hanging in there. Warmer weather is on the way next week, so don’t put the clubs away just yet. While golf traffic has slowed down significantly, keeping up with the leaves has been our biggest challenge. And of course, frost is now a regular issue through March. Why do we close the course until the frost burns off? When leaf blades freeze, the water inside them expands, making the turf extremely brittle. Walking on frozen grass can crack or rupture the cell membranes, causing long-term injury—or even killing the plant. That’s why we delay play until the frost lifts and the turf can safely handle foot and cart traffic.

Looking Back at 2025 & Preparing for 2026 We wrapped up 2025 with a plan to re-grass the tees and fairways right after Memorial Day 2026. This fall, we sprayed out a significant amount of the “common Bermuda” in our most contaminated areas and overseeded all tees and fairways with ryegrass to give us a reliable playing surface through next June. We followed with a second and third round of seed, and things are looking strong heading into winter. I’ve already met with three contractors to bid on next year’s re-grassing work, and all were impressive—each capable of delivering the professional results we expect. We’ve also retained a tree contractor to remove several trees to improve sunlight penetration, which is critical for healthy Bermuda. Our staff will work alongside them so that all tree work is finished before spring.

2026 Plan May 26: Close the course and begin spraying out fairways and tees Immediately after: Aggressively aerify tees and fairways in preparation for sprigging Next: Drag, smooth, and begin sprigging; start work on the range and new putting green Grow-in period: Through summer Target reopening: Labor Day 2026

Winter Reminders As we move into winter, grass growth slows to a crawl. Please take a little extra time to: Replace your divots and sand the remainder Fix your ball mark—and one more for good measure The greens get firmer in the cold, and ball marks become harder to find, so every bit of care helps us emerge from winter in the best possible shape. Hope you all had a great holiday season, and thank you for your continued help and support!

TENNIS & PICKLEBALL NEWS JOHN GUTHMANN, TENNIS PRO Bad news: It’s still winter. Good news: The days are getting longer! Sure, each day is still 24 hours, but at least we’re getting more sunlight—and that means spring is on the way. We’re already gearing up for a busy 2026 tennis and pickleball season. At the moment, the soft tennis court nets have been removed and are not suitable for play. However, on any warm day, both the pickleball courts and the hard tennis courts are open for use. If you’re looking to keep your game sharp, the tennis ball machine is also available—just make a reservation and pick up the key at the golf shop. As spring gets closer, The Navigator will include more details about upcoming events. As always, I am available for private lessons, even during most of the winter. You may contact me directly at 434-927-5039.

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FITNESS NEWS

YOGA WITH BECKY Becky Rowe - instructor Contact information: Beckyrowesml@gmail.com

Tuesday and Friday morning Class Schedule: First class (traditional, all level yoga) 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM (mat required for this class) Second class (chair yoga): 9:45 AM – 10:45 AM

💸 Class Pricing: $8 per class, or

$40 per month for unlimited sessions

Come join us to stretch, strengthen, and unwind—no experience necessary!

MEET OUR YOGA INSTRUCTOR, BECKY ROWE Becky Rowe’s passion for wellness shines through in every class she teaches. She believes deeply in the transformative power of yoga—its ability to strengthen the body, calm the mind, and uplift the spirit. Her warm, encouraging teaching style creates a welcoming environment for students of all levels. Becky is a 500-hour Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher and holds additional certifications in personal training, group exercise, and trapeze yoga. Her expertise extends far beyond the yoga mat; she also teaches spin, core and strength training, and water aerobics, offering a well-rounded approach to fitness and overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve flexibility, build strength, reduce stress, or simply move with more intention, Becky brings the knowledge and enthusiasm to help you meet your goals. We are thrilled to have her as part of our fitness team!

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR! NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER Wednesday, December 31st BIRTHDAY NIGHT Thursday, January 15th Thursday, February 12th TRIVIA Thursday, January 29th Thursday, February 26th

FOOTLOOSE FRIDAY Friday, January 23rd Friday, February 20th

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR Friday, January 15th

VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE & DINNER Saturday, February 14th

BRUNCH MENU AVAILABLE ON SUNDAYS Starting in January

TRADITIONAL & CHAIR YOGA Tuesday and Friday morning

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Meet Your Neighbor

TRIVIA

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9TH COCKTAILS BEGIN 6:00 PM BUFFET OPENS 6:30 PM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29TH | BUFFET 5 - 8 PM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26TH | BUFFET 5 - 8 PM

Join us for one of our most beloved social gatherings—Meet Your Neighbor! All members are welcome to mix, mingle, and make new connections in a relaxed and friendly setting. · Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and great conversation · Stay for dinner afterward—reservations are highly recommended It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend and get to know the wonderful community around you. Reservations can be made online, through the McConnell Golf app, or by calling the club at 540-576-1556.

Put your knowledge to the test and join us for a lively evening of trivia fun! Gather your team of 2–6 players or let us pair you with others to form a team. We’ll keep score throughout the night and award prizes to the top three teams—so bring your A-game and your best thinking caps! It’s a great way to connect, compete, and enjoy a night of friendly fun. Don’t miss out!

Footloose Friday

Kick up your heels and unwind with great cocktails and even better music! Join us in the East Room Bar for two unforgettable evenings of live entertainment and festive vibes. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23RD | FEATURING MARIE ANDERSON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20TH | FEATURING MICHELLE MOTLEY

Whether you're dancing or just soaking in the sounds, Footloose Friday is the perfect way to start your weekend THE NAVIGATOR | UPCOMING EVENTS

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WATER’S EDGE PASTABILITIES ON BIRTHDAY NIGHT THURSDAY, JANUARY 15TH | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12TH | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Sunday Brunch is coming!

If you're celebrating a January or February birthday, we’ve got a special treat for you! Join us for an enjoyable complimentary meal during our popular pasta buffet night.

🍝 Buffet includes:

Fresh salads Pasta made your way Delicious desserts

To receive your free meal, please ensure your birthday is on file with Ruth Rice or Jodi Gourley. Note: No à la carte dining available this evening. Pizzas will be offered for takeout.

Starting in January, you can enjoy brunch off the menu all day every Sunday. Whether you’re craving a latemorning classic, a midday favorite, or a relaxed afternoon meal, our brunch offerings will be available whenever it suits you. We’ll be featuring rotating specials, new seasonal dishes, and all your traditional brunch favorites. Be sure to keep an eye on Weekly Happenings for additional details, menus, and updates as we get closer! Brunch available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

PERFECTLY PAIRED PERFECTLY PAIRED WINE WINE CLUB CLUB MEMBERSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE AND INCLUDES: -20% OFF BOTTLES OF WINE FROM OUR WINE LIST -20% OVER COST ON SPECIAL ORDERED BOTTLE -20% OFF WINE DINNERS -WAIVED CORKAGE FEE IN THE DINING ROOM -WATER’S EDGE LOGO WINE CARRIER -EARLY REGISTRATION FOR WINE DINNERS AND WINE TASTING ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP | $150 PER COUPLE, $90 FOR SINGLES

CONTACT JODI GOURLEY TO JOIN at jgourley@watersedgecountryclub.com

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Happy Valentine’s Day Celebrate Valentine’s Day at The Water’s Edge Country Club on Saturday, February 14th. A special romantic dinner will be prepared by our culinary staff. Live music with UBU Band. Please make your reservations via signing up on the event on the club website or call the club at 540-576-1556.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH | STARTING AT 6:00 PM Here are simple, brief ideas for expressing love on Valentine’s Day: Write a short, heartfelt note. Do one thoughtful act that makes their day easier. Plan a small shared moment—a walk, coffee date, or favorite meal. Leave surprise love notes in places they’ll find later. Give a list of a few things you love or appreciate about them. Recreate a special memory or first date. Be fully present—put phones away and enjoy time together.

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January SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 31

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Lake Bloomers Trip

New Year’s Eve Dinner 4

Dining Services Closed

Taking down Decorations at the club

Dining Services Closed

Meet Your Neighbor

Birthday Night 22

Dining Services Closed

Footloose Friday

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Dining Services Closed

February SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Dining Services Closed

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Birthday Night Dinner & Dance

Dining Services Closed

Footloose Friday 25

Dining Services Closed

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Club News Canasta

Fridays If you are interested in joining the group or have any questions, please email Jennifer DiMare at jkdimare@aol.com

Come Play Bridge With Us! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to sharpen your skills, we’d love for you to join our bridge group. It’s a great way to enjoy friendly competition, meet new people, and spend an afternoon engaged in a classic game. All levels are welcome—just bring your enthusiasm! We hope to see you at the tables soon. Contact Marilyn Carroll for details

THE NAVIGATOR | CLUB NEWS

MAHJONG Come Play Bridge With Us!

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to sharpen your skills, we’d love for you to join our bridge group. It’s a great way to enjoy friendly competition, meet new people, and spend an afternoon engaged in a classic game. All levels are welcome—just bring your enthusiasm! We hope to see you at the tables soon. Contact Diane John for details

BOOK CLUB Cup & Chaucer Book Club Happy readers since 1995 Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 9:30 AM except for January, February, July and August. Currently at full capacity of 16; however, if interested, please text to be put on the waiting list. Contact: Susan Henry 540-834-8322 henryduo2@hotmail.com

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Employee Recognition Employee of the Month November 2025

Employee of the month December 2025

Please join us in congratulating Brittany Horsley for being nominated for Employee of the month for November. She joined our team at The Water’s Edge in 2006 and has been a dedicated and valued member of our staff ever since. She was voted Employee of the Month for May and October 2023 and proudly earned the title of Employee of the Year in 2021 and 2022. Brittany began working at The Water’s Edge while still in high school and has grown into a key leader within our food and beverage department. She now serves as our Dining Room Manager, where she continues to play an essential role in the success of our events and daily operations. Brittany is also an exceptional bartender, well known for her warm personality and her impressive ability to remember members’ favorite drinks. Outside of work, Brittany loves spending quality time with her family and enjoys riding her four-wheeler. Her positive attitude, dedication to the club, and genuine care for others shine through in everything she does. We are incredibly fortunate to have Brittany as part of The Water’s Edge team, and we are grateful for the passion and professionalism she brings to the club each and every day.

We are proud to congratulate George Davis Sr on being elected employee of the month of December 2025. George has been a vital member of our golf course grounds team for 17 years. He joined the company in 2008. He approaches his work with a level of pride and professionalism that sets the standard for our entire grounds crew. His reliability, attention to detail, and strong work ethic are evident in every area he helps maintain. He is known not only for the quality of his work, but also for his positive attitude and the steady leadership he has brought to the team. George has been married for 31 years and has 5 kids, 18 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. When not at work, George enjoys hunting, fishing, going to church, and spending time with his family. We are truly grateful for all that George Sr. has contributed over the past three decades. Please join us in congratulating him on this incredible achievement and in thanking him for the invaluable role he has contributed to our club.

Employee of the Year for 2025 Jamie joined The Water’s Edge in December 2024. She was recognized as Employee of the Month in both March and September 2025, and we are proud to now honor her as our Employee of the Year. Her creativity, attention to detail, and passion for horticulture brought vibrant color and life to our grounds throughout the season. With a horticulture degree from Ferrum College and prior experience with the City of Roanoke, Jamie combines strong expertise with genuine dedication to her work. We are grateful for all she brings to The Water’s Edge. Congratulations, Jamie, on this welldeserved recognition!

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PHOTO GALLERY

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PHOTO GALLERY

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JANUARY COOKIE OF THE MONTH Brown B Chip To

utter Cho

ffee Cook

colate

ies

ecutive Chef at the Michael Monahan, Ex ville Country Club of Ashe I picked this cookie because it reminds me of the kind I’d make at home on a slow Sunday afternoon—simple, a little nostalgic, and hard to stop eating. The browned butter gives it that warm, toasty flavor that fills the kitchen, and the bits of chocolate and toffee make every bite feel like a small reward.” - Michael Monahan

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients 2 lb all-purpose flour

Brown Butter Base

1 Tbsp baking soda

1 lb unsalted butter

1 tsp baking powder

1 lb light brown sugar, packed ½ lb granulated sugar 4 each large eggs

Mix-ins

2 Tbsp pure vanilla extract

12 oz semisweet chocolate chips

1 tsp kosher salt

8 oz toffee bits (Heath or similar)

Directions

Yield About 80 bite-size cookies (1 oz dough balls)

1. Brown the butter | In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until it foams and turns golden with a nutty aroma. Immediately transfer to a mixing bowl to cool slightly (about 10 minutes). 2. Combine sugars and butter | Add brown sugar and granulated sugar to the cooled brown butter. Mix until smooth and glossy. 3. Add eggs and vanilla | Whisk or mix on medium speed until fully emulsified and creamy. 4. Combine dry ingredients | In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and mix just until incorporated. 5. Fold in mix-ins | Stir in chocolate chips, toffee bits, and optional nuts. Dough should be soft but not sticky. 6. Scoop & chill | Portion into 1 oz (tablespoon-size) scoops. Chill at least 30 minutes (or freeze for bake-off flexibility). 7. Bake | Set oven to 350 °F convection or 365 °F still air. Place on parchment-lined sheet trays, 2 inches apart. Bake 8–10 minutes until edges are golden and centers just set 8. Finish | Cool on trays 5 minutes, then transfer to racks. Optional: sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt while warm.

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FEBRUARY COOKIE OF THE MONTH Apricot,

Craisin,

Almond

Orange

Country Club utive Chef at Raleigh John Crawford, Exec try Club Chef at Raleigh Coun & Lynn Hart, Pastry “This Cookie recipe was a staple item for a High Tea fundraiser event we did every year at the Oasis House Ministry in Ohio. The Ministry was able to raise over $10 Thousand dollars for women in need.” - Lynn Hart

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

Directions 1. In a food processor, pulse the flour, Sugar, Salt and Cubed Butter until the mixture is crumbly. 2. Add the Almond Extract, Orange Zest and Juice. 3. Fold in the Craisins, Almonds and Apricot. 4. Knead into a tight log shape with 1 ¼ inch wide. 5. Let it rest for an hour in the refrigerator. 6. Slice ¼ inch thick. 7. Bake in a 350-degree home oven or 325-degree Convection oven for approximately 10 minutes. 8. Makes 34 Cookies.

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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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The Water's Edge Country Club 1825 Water's Edge Drive Penhook, VA 24137