SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
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THE WATER’S EDGE COUNTRY CLUB
W A T E R ’ S EDGE WATER’S 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
Mike Abraham | PGA Director of Golf mabraham@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3343
Ruth Rice | Member Services Director rrice@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-524-9075
Casey Hodges | Assistant Golf Pro chodges@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3343
Jeff Snyder | Golf Course Superintendent jsnyder@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3734
Donald Huston | Asst. Golf Course Superintendent dhuston@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-3734
Kristina Wray | Equestrian Center Manager barn@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-2714
Jodi Gourley | Business Manager jgourley@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556
John Hanek | Executive Chef chef@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556
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
2
10-13
McConnell Properties
Upcoming Events
3
14 Club News
Contact Information
4
15
Table of Contents
Photo Gallery
5-8 16-17
Club Updates
9
Fitness
Cookie of the Month
18-19
Inside McConnell Golf
Tuesday - Sunday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Driving Range Monday | Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday | 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sunday & Thursday | Range 8:00 AM - 4:30 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
Dining Hours CLUBHOUSE DINING Monday | Closed Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday - Thursday | 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Friday - Saturday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sunday | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
TAKE OUT Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday – Saturday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM* *Dinner take out orders are requested 5:30 PM & picked up by
Stay Connected! Follow The Water’s Edge Country Club on social media.
6:00 PM; pizzas available until 8:00 PM Sunday | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Call (540)-576-1556 to place your order.
Gym Hours Access through the club See above club hours App Access Hours
Community Contact Information
5:30 AM- 9:00 PM
AEP: (800)-277-2177 For power outages
Equestrian Center
VDOT: (800)-367-7623 For downed trees blocking
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
state-maintained roads
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Manager's Message ROBERT LAMBERT, CLUB MANAGER Labor Day weekend is around the corner, marking the unofficial close of the summer season. While time on the lake may be slowing down, there is still plenty happening at Water’s Edge Country Club. Fall is one of the best times of year to get out on the golf course, with comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, excellent course conditions, and the beauty of the changing leaves. Tennis players and pickleball enthusiasts are encouraged to take advantage of the pleasant fall weather as well. If you need equipment, you are welcome to borrow items from the tennis shop; we simply ask that everything be returned when you are done. Pickleball continues to be a sport enjoyed by all generations, and it has been wonderful to see so many families of every age playing together this year. Fall is also a perfect season for horseback riding. If you are looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, reach out to Kristina to schedule a trail ride. Kristina have also had another busy summer with their equestrian camps, and we are grateful to everyone who supported the program by sending their children and grandchildren. We would also like to send our best wishes to Bailey, Harmony, and Dara who have headed to college for the school year. At the same time, we are especially thankful for our reliable year-round team members: Brittany, Jasmine, Cosby, Stephanie, Kearston, and Raymond. We appreciate all of their dedication, hard work, and commitment throughout the summer and the entire year.
Welcome New Members
Membership Opportunities Invitational Membership: We are still offering a limited number of invitational memberships for non-property owners. The initiation fee is $40,000. Please share with your friends!
PHILIP & DENISE RASMUS
Invitational/Legacy Membership: Members who sell their property can now remain members after the sale. Please call me for details.
DAVID & JEANNE SCHMITZ Class III Golf membership
Young Executive Membership - Member's young adult children who are no longer dependents can now have their own membership. This membership classification is based upon the primary member’s account being active and in good standing. No initiation fee is required with the Young Executive membership under the parents’ membership. Dues structure would be discounted as follows: Under 30: 60% off annual dues, 30 -34 years old: 40% off annual dues, 35-40 years old: 20% off annual dues. Call me at 540-524-9075 or send me an email at RRice@WatersEdgeCountryClub.com with any questions, or to discuss further.
Class III Golf membership
DYLAN & MICHELLE FARROW
Class I Young Executive Golf membership
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GOLF NEWS GOLF NEWS MICHAEL ABRAHAM, PGA | DIRECTOR OF GOLF How fast did the summer go by? We stayed busy on the golf course with Mixed Foursome events, Thursday Night events, kids camps and travel trips to other McConnell properties! We had many Hole-In-One's as well! We had Hole-In-One's from Carol Kennedy, Herb Lewis, Evelyn Vaden, Turner Harvey and Patrick Wire (at Old North State Club). The summer was hot and so was the action on the course! Now that we've survived the dog days of summer it's on to Fall! Personally, this is my favorite season of the year. In high school my golf team competed in the Fall, so playing golf later in the day with the longer shadows, the cooler temperatures and the leaves changing colors bring back a lot of the early golf memories for me.
Hopefully you'll share with me in these conditions and play in our Thursday Night Dog Fights at 4pm throughout the Fall! We've had great turnouts this summer and are shooting for greater participation as the weather cools down. September and October bring out some of our 'Major' events on the golf calendar this year: Ladies' Member-Member - September 10 & 11 Men's Member-Member - September 17-19 Club Championship - October 10 & 11 In October we'll also mix in our Ladies' Closing Day (Oct 15) and Men's Closing Day (Oct 23). One other big event we're hosting is the annual fundraising event for the Cool Branch Fire & Rescue Squad. There will be a live & silent auction and banquet on Oct 1 with the golf tournament taking place on Oct 2. Keep an eye out on emails and flyers for sponsor and team registration!
From the Lesson Tee... This summer we booked four overnight trips for our members to play other McConnell courses. We traveled around to Wakefield, Treyburn, The Cardinal, Sedgefield, Cobblestone, Musgrove Mill, Providence and Old North State, and I'll tell you what, playing a new course can be a little nerve racking! Not sure where to check-in, not sure where the bathrooms are, not sure where the practice facilities are, can you chip on the putting green or is it putting only, where's the first tee, etc etc! All these thoughts and you haven't event taken a swing that matters to this point! I believe every player should have a warm-up routine before they play so that once they begin their routine, all of those other questions go out the window and you are now focusing on your game. Here's what my routine looks like: I try to arrive an hour early. I putt for about 15 minutes to get a feel for the greens, starting with short putts then working my way back to longer distances. I always finish up making some 3-footers to build confidence. I'll practice some basic chips and pitches for 10-15 minutes, then move to the driving range. I warm-up with some smaller swings with my 48 degree wedge then move to fuller swings with my 8-iron. Then my 3-iron and finally the driver. Remember, this is a warm-up, not a workout! You shouldn't be exhausted by the time you're done, so only hit 5-6 shots with the clubs you choose. Finally, I like to know what type of shot I'll need on the first hole in which I play (is it a par 3 on a shotgun, driver hole, fairway wood, etc). I'll finish my warm-up by hitting a few balls with the club that I'll be using on my first swing of the day. See if you can establish a warm-up routine and if it may help settle you down before your round, whether at your home course or an away round!
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EQUESTRIAN CENTER NEWS KRISTINA WRAY, EQUESTRIAN CENTER MANAGER As we welcome the cooler temperatures and beautiful changing colors of fall, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the wonderful summer we shared at The Water’s Edge Equestrian Center and look ahead to the season to come.
Remembering Buttercup
As many of you know, we lost our beloved Buttercup on July 11th. Buttercup was much more than a horse to us. She was a cherished member of our barn family who touched the lives of countless children, families, staff members, and members of our community throughout her time at The Water’s Edge. We are deeply saddened by her passing, and her loss has impacted all of us tremendously. Saying goodbye to a horse who has given so much of herself to our program is never easy. Buttercup leaves behind a legacy that will live on forever at our barn. The love, patience, kindness, and lessons she shared with the children who came through our doors will resonate for years to come. For many young riders, Buttercup may have been one of their first introductions to the special bond between a horse and a person. Those memories will stay with them long after they leave the barn. We are incredibly grateful for every lesson, every trail ride, every gentle pat, and every child who had the opportunity to know her. Buttercup will always hold a special place in our hearts and will forever be a part of The Water’s Edge Equestrian Center family. Thank you, Buttercup, for everything you gave us. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten. We would also like to thank everyone who helped make our summer camps such a success! We had such a wonderful time welcoming both returning campers and so many new faces to the barn. It was a joy getting to know each of the children and watching them learn, grow, make new friends, and build confidence around the horses. From grooming and horse care to riding and all of the fun activities we had planned, we hope each camper left with special memories that they will carry with them for years to come. We are already looking forward to seeing everyone again at future camps!
Fall Barn Hours As we transition into the school year and fall season, our barn hours will be changing. New Barn Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM While our daily hours are changing, we remain open 7 days a week and continue to offer riding opportunities throughout the year.
Fall is one of our favorite times of year to enjoy the horses. The cooler temperatures make for beautiful trail rides and wonderful days in the saddle. If you would like to schedule a ride, please give us at least one day’s notice so we can accommodate your request and have everything prepared for your visit. Call the Equestrian Center to schedule your ride. Email: barn@watersedgecountryclub.com We look forward to seeing everyone at the barn this fall!
Enjoy the Barn This Fall! Don’t let the cooler weather keep you away from the barn! We will continue offering:
Private lessons
Ring rides
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Trail rides
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COURSE UPDATE COURSE UPDATE
JEFF SNYDER, GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
This summer has certainly presented its share of challenges, primarily due to the postponement of our turf conversion project. I hope this doesn't become our new normal with the lake level. As of this writing, we're still more than five feet below full pond. I hate to wish bad weather on anyone along the coast, but it may take a hurricane to bring our water levels back up. This fall will look a lot like last fall. We'll be spraying undesirable grasses and weeds before overseeding with ryegrass. Because we delayed our pre-emergent application while anticipating the turf conversion, weeds have become more of an issue than we'd like. Many of you have noticed that we've been spot-spraying affected areas. Unfortunately, there isn't a good post-emergent product that's safe for cool-season turf, so we're being as careful as possible. The product we're using interrupts the chlorophyll process, causing treated plants to turn white. While it's not the prettiest sight, it's the best option for eliminating these problem areas.
Plans for the Fall Aerify greens August 24–26. The greens won't be fully healed by Labor Day but should be in good shape for all September events. Spray Bermuda grass that has returned. Overseed all areas as needed and apply a bulk fertilizer application across the property. I appreciate everyone's patience throughout the summer. We're still on track to complete the project, and we're looking forward to improved conditions. As always, please remember to replace your divots and press them down firmly. Ball marks also continue to be a concern. Please be considerate of your fellow golfers by repairing your own ball mark—and one more while you're at it.
FITNESS NEWS
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TENNIS & PICKLEBALL NEWS JOHN GUTHMANN, TENNIS PRO Tennis proved increasingly popular this summer. Our Monday-Wednesday-Friday “drop-in” mixed doubles was well-attended and a number of both adults and children took lessons. Special events were also popular – especially the evening Sip and Serve round-robin get-together. Come join us for our final 2026 mixed doubles “Champagne, Strawberries and Crème” event, celebrating the U.S. Open, on Monday, Sept 7th from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on tennis courts 1, 2, 3, and 4. This occasion is for all levels of play. As with other mixed doubles events, you don’t need a partner to play. Note that regular Monday-Wednesday-Friday mixed doubles begins at 8:30 a.m. for members and guests whose level of play is up to 4.0., followed by 4.0 and above players at 10:30 a.m. At other times members can reserve tennis courts in advance. To reserve a court, download the McConnell app on your Smartphone or log-in to the McConnell website. Congratulations to our first pickleball club champions: Angelee Harvey and Sally Pike Women’s Doubles, Tom Harvey and Mark Benny Men’s Doubles, Sally Pike and Mark Benny Mixed Doubles!
Pickleball courts this summer were particularly busy on weekends and the special events increased interest from novice players. Regular weekday play is on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. The pickleball courts are available for reservation at other times on a firstcome, first-served basis. Please remember to place the nets next to the fence between the courts when done playing so that they are protected from wind damage. Although summer is winding down, the good news is that tennis and pickleball will continue throughout the fall. This will also include a Tennis Sip and Serve event on Wednesday, September 16, from 5pm-7pm. If you need a tennis racquet or pickleball paddle, there are extras for both adults and children in the tennis shop.Please return all borrowed equipment as soon as you are done playing. If you get a chance, come by the Tennis area and admire the new Tennis furniture. It has been well worth the wait. I hope to see you on the courts this fall. Be sure to check Weekly Happenings for any updates regarding special pickleball and tennis events. For private lessons contact me at: 434-927-5039.
Becky Rowe - instructor Contact information: Beckyrowesml@gmail.com
YOGA
💸 Class Pricing: $8 per class, or
$40 per month for Tuesday and Friday morning unlimited sessions 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 Come join us to stretch, strengthen, and unwind—no experience necessary!
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Canasta
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Fridays If you are interested in joining the group or have any questions,
BIRTHDAY NIGHT Thursday, September 24th Thursday, October 22nd LABOR DAY WEEKEND Friday, September 4th - Live Music with TJ Ellis Saturday, September 5th - Cookout Sunday, September 6th -Omelet & Waffle Brunch Monday, September 7th - Clubhouse open until 5:00 PM Tuesday, September 8th - Club will be closed LADIES MEMBER-MEMBER September 10th & 11th
Please email Jennifer DiMare at jkdimare@aol.com.
MAHJONG We invite you to join us for a fun and social game of MahJong! Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the game, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy
TENNIS SIP & SERVE Wednesday, September 16th
friendly competition, connect with fellow members, and spend a
MEN’S MEMBER-MEMBER September 17th - 19th
All skill levels are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend and come play. We hope to see you there!
FOOTLOOSE FRIDAY Friday, September 25th - Whispering Dream (duo)
We hope to see you at the tables soon.
COOL BRANCH AUCTION & GOLF TOURNAMENT Thursday, October 1st | Silent & Live Auction-doors open at 5:30 PM. Live auction starts at 7:00 PM Friday, October 2nd | Golf Tournament MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR Friday, October 9th LADIES CLOSING DAY Thursday, October 15th MEN’S CLOSING DAY Friday, October 23rd PERFECTLY PAIRED WINE CLUB DINNER Wednesday, October 28th | 6:00 PM Thursday, October 29th | 6:00 PM
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relaxing time at the club.
Contact Diane John for details.
BOOK CLUB The MadHatters Book Club has been bringing together book lovers at Water’s Edge since 2013. Members enjoy lively discussions, great books, and the opportunity to connect with fellow readers in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. We currently have openings for new members and would love to welcome additional readers to the group. If you are interested in joining or would like more information, please contact: Susan Willis 703-725-7295 shwillis76@gmail.com
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UPCOMING EVENTS WATER’S EDGE PASTABILITIES ON BIRTHDAY NIGHT THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22ND | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Celebrate Your Special Day in Style!
Meet Your Neighbor FRIDAY,OCTOBER 9TH COCKTAILS BEGIN 6:00 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 540-5761556.
e s o o l t oo
F riday F
If you're celebrating a September or October 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 Complimentary for members with a September or October birthday 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.
LIVE MUSIC & COCKTAILS | 7:00- 10:00 PM EAST ROOM BAR Kick off your weekend with great music, handcrafted cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere at Footloose Fridays! Join us in the East Room Bar for an evening of live entertainment and good times with friends. Whether you’re ready to hit the dance floor or simply want to sit back, enjoy a cocktail, and take in the music, Footloose Fridays are the perfect way to let loose and celebrate the weekend in style!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH | WHISPERING DREAM DUO FEATURING CHRIS HAMMOCK & PAUL MALLORY
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH - LIVE MUSIC BEGINNING AT 7:00 PM Ease into the weekend with live music in the Bar featuring TJ Ellis from 7:00–10:00 p.m. Join us for great music, good company, and the perfect way to kick off your weekend!
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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH - COOKOUT Bring the family and gather with friends for a classic cookout from 5:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy a laid-back evening filled with great food, good conversation, and plenty of time to relax together. Choose from indoor or outdoor seating and soak up the last days of summer with us!
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH - OMELET & WAFFLE STATION | 10:00 - 1:00 PM Wrap up the holiday weekend with a relaxing brunch from 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Enjoy made-to-order omelets and waffles, along with a leisurely morning of good food and great company. It’s the perfect way to slow down, gather with family and friends, and enjoy one last taste of the weekend before the new week begins!
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH - CLUBHOUSE OPEN UNTIL 5:00 PM Make the most of the holiday Monday! The Clubhouse will be open until 5:00 p.m., with our lunch menu available throughout the day. Stop in, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal before wrapping up the long weekend!
PERFECTLY PAIRED WINE CLUB Indulge in an unforgettable evening of fine wine and exceptional cuisine at our Perfectly Paired Wine Club Dinner. Join Josh Barbour from Hand Picked Selections as he guides you through a curated tasting experience. Limited Seating – Only 30 guests per night Reservations Required – Book early to secure your spot! How to Reserve – Make your reservations online or through the McConnell Golf App
WINE DINNER WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28TH | 6:00 PM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29TH | 6:00 PM THE NAVIGATOR | UPCOMING EVENTS
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COOL BRANCH FIRE & RESCUE SQUAD COMMUNITY CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
Live Auction - Thursday, October 1
Golf Tournament: Friday, October 2
Featuring Heavy Hors d’oeuvres - Non golf teams cost will be $50 at time of entry. Accepting Cash, check or charge. Come early to look at all of the auction items. Doors open at 5:30. Silent auction to end at 7:00 pm when live auction starts.
Please make checks payable to: Cool Branch Vol. Rescue Squad Payments may be mailed to: The Water’s Edge Country Club Attn: Ruth Rice 1825 Water’s Edge Drive Penhook, VA 24137
PAST PROCEEDS Rescue Squad now has a paid 24/7 crew! Concrete drive paved in-front of the Fire Department Life-saving boats Wetsuits New Roof for Rescue & Fire house
Check in: 11:30 am | Lunch at Noon Start time 1:00 pm Prizes Awarded to 1st & 2nd Gross Prize and 1st & 2nd Net prize
Contact Golf Shop at 540-576-3343 or email: Mbraham@watersedgecountryclub.com or CHodges@watersedgecountryclub.com or drop registration off at the golf shop.
Join Us in Supporting Our Community Fundraiser!
Everyone is welcome—not just members! We’re seeking donations to create exciting themed baskets and unique auction items. You can donate: A complete basket Individual items to build a basket Experiences or items such as vacation stays, dinners, tickets, services, jewelry, artwork, and more Every donation makes a difference! Thank you for helping us support this important cause and make this year’s fundraiser a success. All Auction items are needed by Wednesday, September 16th. Thank you for being part of something meaningful.
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS GOLD SPONSOR $1,700 Hole Sposor | One Team Entry
Four Person Team $1300 Includes admission to auction for golfers
HOLE SPONSOR $500
Contact Ruth Rice at RRice@watersedgecountryclub.com with your hole sponsor information. THE NAVIGATOR | UPCOMING EVENTS
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Club News - Employee Recognition Bailey is part of our wait staff and joined The Water’s Edge team in September 2025. This was her very first job, and she quickly proved to be a wonderful addition to our team! From the beginning, Bailey has brought a positive attitude, and willingness to learn. She has quickly become a valued member of our staff, and we’ve loved watching her grow in confidence and experience.
y Jul ee of the
In her spare time, Bailey enjoys spending time with the people who mean the most to her. She loves hanging out with her family and friends, making memories and enjoying time together whenever she can.
ploy th Em Mon
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Bailey is also a proud dog mom to her sweet pup, Luna. She enjoys relaxing and making memories with Luna, who is clearly an important part of her life.
rrow u F ly Bai
As Bailey prepares for her next adventure in life, she will be heading to Virginia Tech this fall as a sophomore. We are excited to see all that she will accomplish as she continues her education and pursues her goals. While we will certainly miss seeing Bailey around the club, we know great things are ahead for her and wish her nothing but success in this exciting new chapter. She plans to major in Biology and intends to pursue a career path as a general surgeon
Congratulations, Bailey, and thank you for all your hard work! We are so happy to have you as part of our team! We look forward to all she will accomplish in the future!
Natalie has been a valued member of The Water’s Edge team since June 2022, when she began her journey as a housekeeper. Later, she has transitioned into the role of cart attendant, where she especially enjoys connecting with members and creating positive experiences around the club.
ust f the g u A oyee o
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ipp n K alie Nat
Natalie will begin her senior year at Virginia Tech this fall, where she is studying Human Development. After graduation, she plans to continue her education and pursue a career as an Occupational Therapist. Natalie hopes to use her passion for helping others to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and positively impact those she works with.
Outside of work and school, Natalie enjoys: Cooking new recipes Helping her parents with projects Painting Working out Listening to music
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🍳
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Congratulations, Natalie, and thank you for all that you do for The Water’s Edge! We are proud to have you on our team.
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PHOTO GALLERY
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SEPTEMBER COOKIE OF THE MONTH
Ginger Cookie e Chef John Hanek, Executiv Country Club at The Water’s Edge
Ginger cookies are warmly spiced with ginger and cinnamon to create a rich, comforting flavor. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet-spicy taste make them a timeless favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients ¾ cup shortening
2 tsp baking soda
¼ cup molasses
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup sugar
2 tsp ground ginger
1 egg
½ tsp salt
2 cups all purpose flour
Extra sugar for dusting dough
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Mix well – shortening, molasses, sugar, & egg. 3. Sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, & salt. 4. Add to wet ingredients & mix until combined. 5. Cover bowl & refrigerate 2 hours or overnight. 6. Take a spoonful of dough & roll in hand to form a ball, then roll in sugar until coated. Place on cookie sheet & bake for 10-12 minutes (11 minutes tends to be the sweet spot).
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OCTOBER COOKIE OF THE MONTH
Red Velv
et
Cookie ive Chef Kenric Hunt, Execut try Club at Brook Valley Coun Recipe Courtesy of Jahnae Roach Jahnae Roach is going to school for art and business. She is a dishwasher, an at-home cook and baker, and also an artist (lyrically and visually). Red velvet is an amazing burst of flavor and full of color and not as appreciated as much as it should be.
Ingredients 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour 1/3 cup of coca powder 1 teaspoon of baking soda ½ teaspoon of baking powder ½ teaspoon of salt
½ cup of white sugar 1 large egg 1 tablespoon of milk 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract 2 tablespoons of red food coloring 1 cup of white chocolate chips or as needed
1 cup of butter (softened) ¾ cup of brown sugar
Directions 1. Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl. 2. Beat butter with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until fluffy; beat in brown and white sugar until smooth. Beat egg, milk, and vanilla extract into butter mixture; beat in food coloring until uniformly colored. 3. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture with the electric mixer at low speed until completely combined; stir in 1 cup of white chocolate chips. Cover bowl with plastic wrap; place in the refrigerator for 1 hour or overnight. 4. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line the baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 2 ½ -inch balls; place on prepared baking sheets and slightly flatten them. 5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 9-11 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Sprinkle cookies with a few additional chocolate chips; allow them to cool completely.
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INSIDE MCCONNELL GOLF Inside McConnell Golf keeps you up to date on the latest news across our family of clubs, including company-wide initiatives, renovations, member-focused improvements and marketing updates. Stay informed, be part of the story and see what’s buzzing around McConnell Golf.
MCCONNELL GOLF COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF THE CROSSINGS GOLF CLUB, EXPANDS V.A. FOOTPRINT McConnell Golf has completed its acquisition of The Crossings Golf Club in Glen Allen, Virginia, just outside Richmond in Henrico County, and will invest approximately $10 million to restore and modernize one of the region’s best-known public golf courses. The redevelopment will preserve the character of Joe Lee’s original design while restoring The Crossings as a premier public golf destination. Working with the Henrico Sports & Entertainment and Economic Development Authorities, McConnell Golf also shares a long-term vision of positioning The Crossings to host professional tour events and amateur tournaments, including collegiate and high school events. Visit TheCrossingsGolfClub.com to learn about the history of the course and the latest news regarding redevelopment updates, construction milestones, project announcements and reopening news.
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS FOR THE MAGAZINE
ADVERTISE IN MCCONNELL GOLF, THE MAGAZINE
Share your standout club moments for the Fall/Winter edition of McConnell Golf, The Magazine! Whether it’s a family gathering, a tournament win, or a sunset round—send us the moments that matter most. Email your snapshots to photos@mcconnellgolf.com by Friday, September 11. Include: your name, home club and the names of individuals in the photos pictured from left-to-right (if applicable). We look forward to showcasing your moments in print!
Set yourself up for success in the fall. We invite you to diversify your brand and connect with new audiences with the 2026 Fall/Winter edition of McConnell Golf, The Magazine! Promote your business in a best-in-class setting throughout our network spanning across four states. If you are interested in advertising or listing your business in our magazine, please contact your club’s membership director today.
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INSIDE MCCONNELL GOLF
SEDGEFIELD COUNTRY CLUB SECURES PLACE IN PGA TOUR’S NEW CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES One of the PGA TOUR’s longest-running relationships will continue into a new era as Sedgefield Country Club remains home to Greensboro’s PGA TOUR event. Beginning in 2028, the tournament will become part of the new PGA TOUR Championship Series, with Raymond James serving as title sponsor. The event will be contested as a full-field PGA TOUR event in 2027 before transitioning to the Championship Series. Founded in 1938 as the Greater Greensboro Open, the tournament has been won by legends including Sam Snead, Byron Nelson and Ben Hogan, with Sedgefield hosting the event more than 40 times. After a 31-year absence, the PGA TOUR returned to Sedgefield in 2008 following the restoration of its Donald Rossdesigned course, and McConnell Golf acquired the club in 2011. The announcement ensures Sedgefield will remain on one of golf’s biggest stages as the PGA TOUR enters its next era. In 2028, the Greensboro event will celebrate its 90th anniversary, bringing its remarkable history full circle.
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BRENNAN CAPTURES WYNDHAM CHAMPIONSHIP
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Michael Brennan arrived at Sedgefield with his PGA TOUR season hanging in the balance and left as Wyndham Championship winner. The former Wake Forest standout closed with a 6-under 64 to win by three shots at 22-under 258, tying the tournament scoring record. The victory earned Brennan a spot in the FedExCup Playoffs and marked the second PGA TOUR win of his career. Read the 2026 Wyndham Championship recap at ClubConnection.blog.
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The Water's Edge Country Club 1825 Water's Edge Drive Penhook, VA 24137