Meadowmeer Newsletter April 2019
The GOLF season has begun! I wanted to remind everyone about our league play. Here is your
opportunity to play more golf with friends and meet more friends that play golf. All of the formats are
designed to be casual, fun, and open to players of all abilities. Please drop David a note for more
information.
• Tuesday morning Women’s Club (open play after 12:00 PM)
• Tuesday Evening League – entire course closed from 5:00-7:30 PM (May 14th – July 30th)
• Wednesday morning Men’s Club – Tee times 7:30 – 10:00 AM
• Wednesday evening Ladies League 1st tee closed from 2:30 – 4:00 PM
• Thursday Night Men’s League. Open play before 11:00 pm for 18 holes and before 1:00 pm for 9
holes (April 11th – August 29th).
• Saturday competition – Members only until 12:00 PM. Non-Members can play in the Saturday
Competition once a month.
• Sunday – Members only until 12:00 PM. Guests can only play once a month during this time.
• We are trying to send out email reminders about upcoming events as well as competition
results. If you would like to receive these emails, please call the golf shop or email David at
dtunkkari@gmail.com.
NEW FOR 2019 – Tuesday Evening Golf League. This will be a fun, casual, and competitive
nine-hole league. The league will run from May 14th through the end of July. Each Tuesday, four
person teams will play against another team in an individual match play format. Each Tuesday will be
a 5:00 PM Shotgun start. Members and Non-Members are welcome to participate. Green fees for
non-members are $25 which includes cart. Hor d’oeuvres and drink specials following golf. Sign up
soon as space is limited to ten teams and we will fill up fast!
Junior Golf Camps! We are now signing up kids for Junior Golf Camps. These camps are for
beginning to intermediate skill level. We suggest kids ages 7 to 12 years old. We are offering threeday camps in June, July, & August. We also will be hosting a tiny tots program for kids ages 4-8 years
old in July & August. More information on those camps is available in the golf shop or on the web site.
Greens Aerification. Weather permitting, we are planning on completing the greens aerification
May 5th & 6th
.
New Golf Carts & Cart Lease Program. Meadowmeer is due to receive ten brand new golf
cars as of the 1
st of May. The EZGO electric golf carts will be powered by a lithium battery that is
quiet, powerful, and efficient. The new carts will allow us to expand the number of carts we have and
allow us to implement a new lease program. Members may now have unlimited use of a golf cart for a
reasonable monthly fee. Space in the program is limited so please contact David if you are interested.
“The Story of Meadowmeer” The book being written about the origins and development of
Meadowmeer will soon go into production. The working title is “From Strawberry Fields to Fairways.”
Galley proofs are about to be printed and will be available for those interested who may wish to
contribute final content before actual printing gets underway – Contact Steve Kersten 206-380-5038
Stephenkersten@gmail.com). The book will include space for advertisers for in support of the
publication. The GOFUNDME page is also still an option for contributors
(GoFundMe.com/ghpbjk98). All proceeds will be divided between MGCC and Helpline House.
Meadowmeer Tournament Schedule – Mark Your Calendar!
May 4th – Cinco De Mayo – Two Person Scramble “World Famous Margarita Bar”
June 2nd & 3rd – “Meadowmeer Classic” – 45-hole two-person tourney
July 13th & 14th – Meadowmeer Couples Tourney – 36 Hole Chapman Format
August 3rd – Ladies Summer Sizzler – Two Person Best Ball
August 17th – Meadowmeer Member – Guest – Two Person Format
August 31st – Couples Labor Day Tourney – Two Person 18-hole tournament
October 12 & 13th – Memorial Cup & Oktoberfest – Two Day Ryder Cup Style Tourney
Pro’s Tip – Now that the golf season is upon us, the golf course is getting busier. It is a good idea to
get in the habit of calling ahead to check on tee times as we will start seeing more play. I also want to
remind everyone about how you can make a round of golf more enjoyable for you and everyone else.
• Taking great care of the golf course. Filling divots with sand, fixing ball marks on the green, and
keeping your golf cart in designated areas will help keep the golf course in better shape. If
everyone takes care of the golf course, we will all have better, more enjoyable conditions in
which to play.
• Keeping up the pace of play. There is nothing more frustrating then playing behind really slow
golfers. Make sure you play ready golf – be ready to hit when it is your turn. Keep your clubs
between you and the next hole so you don’t have to back track to before leaving for the next
green. Do your scorekeeping on the next tee so the players behind you can play to the green
faster. Little time savers add up by the end of the round. You should also let faster golfers play
through. If you do have beginning golfers or slow players, seek times when the course is not as
busy. We are very fortunate that her at Meadowmeer we can enjoy a nice pace of play. As the
golf course gets busier, we need to make sure to put even more emphasis on keeping up the
pace of play. Singles and twosome should also realize that you can’t expect to play a speed
round during busy times. Early mornings or late afternoons will allow you to play faster.
Meadowmeer Membership Drive – We currently have a spring membership drive for
the month of April. Membership initiation fees are only $100 and new members get the month
of April for free. If a current member sponsors a new member the will receive $50 in club credit!
The initiation fee will increase to $250 starting May 1st
– act now to save!
Meadowmeer Golf & CC
March 2019 Newsletter
Grill News – We are excited to have finished our first phase of the grill facelift. We took advantage of the poor weather conditions to do some work on the grill. We have increased the kitchen size, ordered a dishwasher and 3 compartment sink, updated the flooring in the dining room, added wainscoting and trim and painted. We still are in the planning stages for the new bar and the enclosure of part of the patio, but things are moving along! We have also hired our new chef, Petra Velie, who starts on March 5th. We will spend our first few weeks organizing the kitchen and planning the new menu (don’t worry, many of your favorites will still be available.) We will be having a grand re-opening the weekend of March 30th and 31st, with a special members only invite on Friday, March 29th from 5:00-7:00 pm. This members party will be our chance to show off the grill improvements and to entice you to start using your neighborhood grill more often! We will offer beer and wine specials and complimentary hors d’ oeuvres. Watch for promotions for members/residents only coming soon via email and the website, which will be updated over the next few weeks.
The grill hours are currently Wednesday-Sunday 11-3. We will be extending those hours in April, exact hours will be posted on our website soon and will be weather dependent for the month of April. Starting May 1st (or sooner, weather permitting) we will be open 11-7 daily offering lunch and dinner service.
Lastly, we are upping the service level at the grill. We hope that you will find a seat and let us bring menus and drinks to you. When you come check out the remodel, you will notice there is not a “space” to order anymore, which a few people are finding awkward. Rest assured, we will now come to you, serve you and bus your table for you. If you want to order something to go, take a quick seat and we will get your order placed for you. Sit back, relax and enjoy being taken care of!
Billing Info/Update – We are updating our email registry to try and go paperless for statements soon. Not only is this good for reducing paper use, it saves the club a lot of money in monthly postage. If you would prefer to still receive your statement by regular mail, you will be able to request that, but we are urging our members to go paperless. We can also now keep a credit card number confidentially and securely on file for monthly bills. This credit card is not visible to the staff here at the club and the company we use to process the cards uses the most modern, encrypted security available. Watch for a survey form in your next statement that asks which method you would prefer and will give you a space to update any personal information like address, phone number and email.
Pro Shop News – The crazy cold weather in February severely limited the amount of golf we were able to play. I have a feeling that March will be much better. If you are looking forward to playing more golf this year, you should join one of the many Leagues available. There is a list of the different options below. The competitions are casual and fun. Please call the golf shop or drop us a note for more details. During March, the golf shop will be open from 8:00 AM to dusk Sunday through Friday and 7:00 AM to dusk on Saturdays.
Men’s & Ladies Club – Handicaps have been inactivated, to reactivate your handicap, you need to pay your Men’s or Ladies club dues. The Men’s Club Dues are $70 and the Ladies Club Dues are $65. We have officially started posting scores as of March 1st. The fees pay for your yearly handicap services and make you eligible to compete in the many competitions offered here at Meadowmeer and elsewhere.
Men’s & Ladies Leagues – The Thursday night Men’s League will kickoff their season with a Captain’s meeting on March 14th – the season starts on April 11th. The Ladies Kickoff Meeting is March 5th and their season starts on Tuesday April 2nd. With the many leagues being offered, there are a lot of opportunities for you to get out and play some golf. The more you play, the more fun you will have. Meet new people, play with your friends, and enjoy a lot of fun competition! Please contact us for details on how to get started. There is no need to be intimidated, the Pro Shop can help pair you with other golfers of similar ability. We have really good golfers, golfers who are just getting started and everything in between. By getting started and establishing a handicap, you can compete with others or just come out to have fun!
- Ladies League – 18 holes Tuesday mornings April – September.
- (New for 2019) Tuesday Mixed League (teams) – 9 holes Tuesdays (5:00 PM Shotgun Start) May – August.
- Wednesday Night Ladies League – 9 holes Wednesday afternoons May – September.
- Wednesday Morning Men’s League – 18 holes Wednesdays (tee times 7:30 – 9:00 AM) May – August.
- Men’s Thursday Night League – 9 holes Thursdays (tee times 1:00 – 6:00 PM) April – August.
- Saturday morning Mixed competition – 18 holes each Saturday all year long! (tee times 7:00 – 9:00 AM).
Junior Golf – Dates and times for junior golf camps will be available soon. Send us note with your email and we will send you the information as soon as it becomes available.
Pro’s Tip – One item all golfers should know about this new year is the many changes to the rules of golf. The USGA and the R&A are both committed to simplifying the rules of golf for everyone. I have highlighted a new rule this month and will highlight more in the months to come. You should take a few moments to visit www.usga.org to find all of the new rule changes in 2019.
Touching the sand in the bunker (Rule 12) Previously, touching the sand in the bunker before the stroke was not permitted, except for very few exceptions. Now, touching the sand incidentally is basically allowed, i.e. you are permitted to lean on your club. However, you are still not allowed to test the condition of the sand before the stroke is played, improve the line of play, ground the club in front of or behind the ball or touch the sand during practice swings. Good to know: You therefore now do not have to be extra careful in bunkers, especially if you are not very close to the ball.
Memorial Cup Tournament – Our next big Tournament will be the annual Memorial Cup Tournament. Saturday October 13th. This is an eighteen-hole Ryder Cup style competition which is a lot of fun. It starts with an 8:30 AM shotgun start. The cost is $25 for members and $40 for non-members. This fee includes prizes plus a fantastic Oktoberfest Lunch with Troy and Uli. Everyone is welcome!
Emails – Make sure to send us a note if you want to be on our email list. We also are requesting phone numbers from members. Send your info to – dtunkkari@gmail.com.
“The Meadowmeer Story” a book being written by local author – Dave Kragen is writing a book about the history of MGCC. Anyone interested to contribute pictures/stories, please contact Steve Kersten (stephenkersten@gmail.com).
Pro’s Tip – Fall has arrived and the weather has been cool. However, the golf course here at Meadowmeer is in fantastic shape. Fall / Winter golf can be a lot of fun and a great way to get outside during the cooler months. The key to making winter golf enjoyable is to make sure you have the proper gear to keep you warm and dry. Just like going skiing, good quality gear will make your day much more enjoyable. Nice rain pants, waterproof jacket, waterproof bucket hat, and rain gloves can really help when you happen to get caught in a shower. Waterproof shoes are also a must. I have ordered a nice selection of rain gear due to arrive around the end of the month. Stop by and get set up to play more golf this winter!
Winter Hours – Grill & Pro Shop – Starting October 15thth, the grill will be operating with a limited menu on Monday and Tuesdays. Snacks plus beer and wine will still be available. The Grill will be open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The golf shop will be open from 8:00 AM to dusk Sunday through Friday and 7:00 AM to dusk on Saturdays.
Board of Directors Election and Cost of Living Adjustment vote –
President – Taylor Welch
Vice President – Mark O’Leary
Secretary – Michelle Van Derrick
Trustee – Teri Gangi – Helder
Cost of Living Adjustment – Passed by 58% margin
Chef Troy Murell has announced that he is leaving Meadowmeer to pursue another attractive opportunity. Please take a moment to thank him for his excellent food, service, and his contributions to our club when you see him at our Oktoberfest event on the 13th.
Meadowmeer August Newsletter
Tiny Tots – This Junior golf program is designed for the little kids ages 4-8 years old. This is a great way to get youngsters excited about golf. Plastic clubs and balls followed up with some ice cream. 3:00 – 4:15 PM. $10 per child. Saturday August 11th, & August 18th. Call the golf shop to sign up.
Member-Member Tournament – Saturday August 18th is the Member-Member. It is a new two-person event with some fun competitions. The entry fee will be $25 per person – Members Only! The format will be a two-person best ball on the front nine and a modified scotch ball on the back nine. There will be a closest to the pin competitions, long drive competition, and a putting contest following play. There will be a lot of prizes and a ton of fun to be had. Gross and net prizes by divisions. The tee times will start at 7:00 AM. Be ready for a few surprises! Drop me a note or sign up in the golf shop!
August Pro Shop Sale – We are blowing out our remaining golf shoes. Come by and save big $$$$. We also will be having a sale on Callaway wedges and putter. Put one in your bag and receive a free fifteen-minute putting or chipping lesson!
Meadowmeer looking good – Thanks goes out to Leslie Cox and Kent Salo! Leslie and Kent famous for filling in divots with sand. We recently bought another sand bottle station so we now have one by the first tee and another on hole number five. Leslie also sponsored some planter pots for the back deck so we can grow some herbs. The herbs are doing great so chef Troy can take advantage. Kent had been taking time filling some holes in the cart paths with cement so we can all enjoy a smoother ride. We appreciate the course stewardship and hope all members will follow their lead and keep taking care of the golf course.
“The Meadowmeer Story” a book being written by local author
Dave Kragen is writing a book about the history of MGCC. The book will include pictures, research on the history of Meadowmeer, and interviews with some of the “old-timers”
-anyone interested to contribute pictures/stories, please contact Steve Kersten (stephenkersten@gmail.com). Donations to support the expenses
of publishing, please go to: GoFundMe.com/p/fn7z – the proceeds of this book will be divided between MGCC and Helpline house. All donations big/small will be accepted!
Pro’s Tip – Short game, short game, and more short game! Being able to turn three shots into two shots is the key to shooting lower scores. No matter how poorly you strike the ball, you can save a bunch of strokes being able to chip, pitch, and putt well. Everyone loves to go to the driving range and smack the driver, but at least one third of your practice should be done right around the practice greens. You don’t have to practice for hours to improve. Just show up five minutes early for your tee time and hit a few chips and putts. Your scorecard will reflect your efforts!
Picture of the month. Hole #3 at Meadowmeer courtesy of Ed Berschinski – A pretty view for sure. This hole offers everything – water, trees, sand, and bit of fairway! Come and enjoy our great summer weather and give hole #3 you best shot. Keep the pics coming. A free hat for Ed!
Meadowmeer June Newsletter
Wine Tasting – Wednesday June 13th 4:30 – 6:30 PM Meadowmeer will host a Rose Tasting featuring four hand selected wines from Vintage Wine Bar @ Harbor Square Wine Shop. These roses will show the best of the world’s rose! Along with the tasting will be a fine selection of cheeses, meats, and pate. $10 per person at the door.
Wine Dinner – Saturday June 30th 6:00 PM Meadowmeer will host a fantastic wine dinner featuring hand selected wines Italian wines from Vintage Wine Bar @ Harbor Square Wine Shop. These wines will be paired with a delicious Italian dinner from Chef Troy. The dinner is limited to twenty-five people and we expect to fill up fast. Please call the golf shop to sign up.
Meadowmeer Couples Tournament July 14th & 15th – This annual tournament is always a fun weekend full of good golf, food, and fun. You can find an entry form on the web site or call the golf shop and we can email an entry.
Junior Golf Camps – Our June Junior Camp is sold out. We still have room in our July Camp – July 9th – 11th and our August Camp 6th – 8th.
Tiny Tots – This Junior golf program is designed for the little kids ages 4-8 years old. This is a great way to get youngsters excited about golf. Plastic clubs and balls followed up with some ice cream. 3:00 – 4:15 PM. $10 per child. Saturday June 30th, July 7th, & July 14th. More dates coming in August. Call the golf shop to sign up.
Fourth of July Parade – Once again we will have an entry into the Bainbridge Island Fourth of July Parade. Come out with the kids and help decorate our golf carts or march in the Parade. This is a fun way to promote Meadowmeer Golf & Country Club and the Meadowmeer community. Call the golf shop for details.
Meadowmeer Classic Results! – The 28th annual classic was a great tournament. The two-day event produced some fine moments. Winning low gross in the first division was Casey Dunn and AJ Hunter. Low Net went to Ric Moore and Marcus Kitley. The second division produce a tie for low gross – Lisa Harper and David Cox tied with Ty Traub and Brad Burns. Low net honors went to Curt Raber and Steve Kersten. Congratulations to all the winners!
Father’s Day Sale – Don’t forget about dad this Father’s Day. We have a great sale on Men’s Logo apparel and Skechers Golf Shoes. The Skechers shoes are the most comfortable golf shoes (or any shoes) I have every worn. The shoes and shirts are 20% off until Father’s Day.
Pro’s Tip – Warm up before you play! I often encourage my students to develop a good warm up routine. While here at Meadowmeer we lack a driving range, you can take a few swings into the net or even just warm up with some practice swings. Loose muscles will work better and help prevent injury. Just as important as swinging the club is taking the time to use the practice putting green. Make sure to arrive a few minutes early for your tee time and hit a few putts and chips. This will help you develop some feel for the speed of the greens. I also want to make sure I hit a few really nice chips and putts that will boost my confidence. I don’t really try to work on technique rather just try to find some tempo and rhythm to my stroke. Warm up and play better!
“The Meadowmeer Story” a book being written by local author Dave Kragen about the history of MGCC. The book will include pictures, research on the history of Meadowmeer, and interviews with some of the “old-timers”-anyone interested to contribute pictures/stories, please contact Steve Kersten (stephenkersten@gmail.com). Donations to support the expenses of publishing, please go to: GoFundMe.com/p/fn7z – the proceeds of this book will be divided between MGCC and Helpline house. All donations big/small will be accepted!
Hole #7 at Meadowmeer. Send me your best picture of the golf course. The winning photo will appear in next month’s newsletter and receive a logo golf hat or visor! Send your entry to dtunkkari@gmail.com.
Weekly Course Closures
Tuesday………….. Ladies Day until 11:00 AM
Wednesday ………Men’s Day until 11:00 AM
Wednesday Evening Ladies League – Tee Times 2:30 – 4:00 PM
Thursday Night Men’s League – Tee Times 2:00 – 6:00 PM
Members Only Saturday & Sunday until 11:00 AM
We had a
great weekend for golf. In particular, the weather was fantastic. Our first annual Cinco De Mayo tournament was a huge success. We had a full field of fifty six golfers and even had to turn away a few interested golfers. The greens crew had the golf course in great shape. Chef Troy and his staff did an excellent job with the food. The homemade tamales were to die for. Of course the “World Famous Meadwomeer Margarita” was a popular beverage of choice. As always, congratulations to the winners. The Masters Tournament has the green jacket presented to the winners and the Meadowmeer has the Cinco De Mayo winners put on the “Champions Serape and Sombrero! Thanks to Marion McLain and Chris Larsen for the beautiful flowers as center pieces – great job Ladies!
Net Champs!
Gross Champs!
Saturday May 19th – Wine Dinner “A Taste of France.” A four course meal prepared by Chef Troy and four perfectly paired french wines. 6:00 PM! $50 person. Space is limited and we will sell out!
Call the clubhouse to reserve your table: (206) 842-2218.
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