Newsletter 2011 November December.indd - The Ford Plantation
Newsletter 2011 November December.indd - The Ford Plantation
Newsletter 2011 November December.indd - The Ford Plantation
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Our Sporting Life<br />
<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong><br />
A publication for members and friends of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Club News<br />
From <strong>The</strong> CEO/GM<br />
At the writing of this, my fi rst letter as CEO/General Manager<br />
at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>, I have been “on the job” barely a week.<br />
<strong>The</strong> good new is that upon closer inspection, many of my initial<br />
positive perceptions of the Club and community have been<br />
validated. Several marketable attributes are very apparent:<br />
• Natural beauty and authentic “southern ambience”<br />
• Diversity of sporting club amenities<br />
• Talented and dedicated staff<br />
• A “sense of place”<br />
<strong>The</strong> Long Range Planning Committee and Board of Directors<br />
did an outstanding job earlier this year completing the strategic plan<br />
and establishing very specifi c goals for the next fi ve years.<br />
Fortunately, many of my observations<br />
are consistent with that document.<br />
<strong>The</strong> key going forward will be our<br />
ability to preserve and enhance these<br />
strategic advantages as compared to<br />
other luxury lifestyle communities.<br />
From a planning perspective, it<br />
would have been preferable to begin<br />
my affi liation with the club and community<br />
earlier in the year; however,<br />
there is no substitute for drinking<br />
from the proverbial fi re hose. I can<br />
assure you that our committees and<br />
staff worked diligently on programming<br />
for <strong>2011</strong>–2012. We have many outstanding activities and<br />
events scheduled, and I encourage you to participate often.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Board annually appoints members to serve on advisory committees.<br />
Your service on a committee can be both enlightening<br />
and rewarding—not to mention extremely valuable to the Club<br />
Guest Experience Package<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> is offering a very unique opportunity—by invitation only to friends of current<br />
TFP members—to enjoy the Club’s amenities and to learn more about Club membership at <strong>Ford</strong>. <strong>The</strong><br />
Guest Experience Package includes two nights at <strong>The</strong> Main House, two rounds of golf, an Ogeechee<br />
River cruise (for up to six people), use of the Sports Complex and Fitness Center, and daily use of<br />
a golf cart. Club dining, Spa treatments, and other Club amenities are available at member rates. Only<br />
20 Guest Experience Packages are being made available, exclusively to friends of members, at the special<br />
rate of $195. This limited-time offer expires on <strong>December</strong> 31, <strong>2011</strong>. (This package is normally priced at<br />
$590—and valued at $1,475.) A PDF with more details is available on the members’ only web site under<br />
“Club News.”<br />
Cover Photo: <strong>The</strong> Main House as seen through<br />
a wreath on the gate, circa 2007. Photo by <strong>Ford</strong><br />
Naturalist Mike Womble.<br />
and your fellow members. As we form committees in the coming<br />
weeks, we are requesting that members with an interest in serving<br />
on a committee contact Executive Assistant Amanda Heinisch at<br />
execasst@fordplantation.com or 912–756–5718. To simplify the<br />
process, we have added a volunteer form on the members’ only<br />
web site (located under “Club News.”)<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> is in its full splendor this time of year. I hope you<br />
have plans to visit the property soon. This is also a great time to<br />
refer your friends to visit <strong>Ford</strong> as part of our Guest Experience<br />
Package program. This guest package has been designed to facilitate<br />
your introduction of your club. Several members have already<br />
taken advantage of this program, and thus far the response has<br />
been quite positive.<br />
Although I haven’t been here long, I have had the pleasure of<br />
meeting several members. I certainly appreciate the warm welcome,<br />
personal insight, and introduction to TFP traditions that have been<br />
shared. Over the next few months, I look forward to meeting or<br />
speaking with all members and learning much more about how we<br />
can continue to meet your expectations.<br />
I wish you and your family a safe and glorious Holiday season.<br />
Warmest regards,<br />
Nick Cassala<br />
Chief Executive Offi cer and General Manager<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong><br />
12511 <strong>Ford</strong> Avenue ● Richmond Hill, GA 31324<br />
Our Sporting Life Editor: Shannon R. GaNun,<br />
Director of Communications and Membership<br />
sganun@fordplantation.com ● 912–756–3291<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 2 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Homecoming <strong>2011</strong>: Hooray for Hollywood!<br />
Homecoming <strong>2011</strong> was a huge success! This year’s theme—<br />
Hooray for Hollywood!—celebrated movies inspired by or<br />
fi lmed in the South. On Friday, October 21, we hosted a <strong>Ford</strong><br />
<strong>Plantation</strong> Homecoming tradition: our Southern Oyster Roast,<br />
featuring oysters, a Low Country buffet, cold beverages, and live<br />
music by Chris Stevers and <strong>The</strong> Marshall Dillon Band. On Saturday<br />
night, the southeast’s favorite dance band— Deas-Guyz—were<br />
back by popular demand to provide live entertainment at our<br />
Homecoming Gala. <strong>The</strong> evening featured a special presentation<br />
to award the “<strong>2011</strong> F’Oscars” (<strong>Ford</strong> Oscars) and delicious movieinspired<br />
fare created by Executive Chef Juan Carlos Rodriguez and<br />
his talented culinary team. It was a terrifi c way to<br />
renew friendships and kickoff the start of the fall<br />
season! Mark your calendars now for Homecoming<br />
2012: October 19–20, 2012.<br />
F’Oscars Results!<br />
At the Homecoming Gala, the following lucky<br />
winners won the coveted F’Oscar Award. <strong>The</strong><br />
nominees were chosen based principally on the<br />
level of activity, enthusiasm, and achievement in<br />
the various categories, regardless of the amount<br />
of time spent at <strong>Ford</strong>. Congratulations to all!<br />
• Sportswoman (Golf): Jane Druten<br />
• Sportswoman (Iron Woman): Dot Watkins<br />
• Best Dancer (Female): Susie MacMillan<br />
• Best Dancer (Male): Wayne Morgan<br />
• Horse Whisperer: Ellen Lawson<br />
• Sportsman (Golf): Greg Coleman<br />
• Funniest Male: Ralph Eagle<br />
Dot and Jesse Watkins also won<br />
a Lifetime Achievement F’Oscar,<br />
and many F’Oscars were awarded<br />
to the Food and Beverage staff<br />
(tied into the movie <strong>The</strong> Help).<br />
Homecoming<br />
Gala Photos<br />
and Video<br />
Available ONline<br />
A video of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong><br />
Homecoming <strong>2011</strong> Gala by<br />
photographer Kelli Boyd is available online and may be accessed<br />
through the members’ only web site (under Club News) or directly<br />
on this site: http://vimeo.com/31168869. To view a gallery of<br />
photos taken during the Gala, go to www.kelliboydphotography.<br />
com, click on login at the top right of the screen, and enter the<br />
password: ford plantation. Adobe Flash software is required for<br />
the full site. We have also uploaded select photos to Facebook<br />
(www.facebook.com/<strong>Ford</strong><strong>Plantation</strong>FB).<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 3 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Golf<br />
Men’s Member/Guest Golf<br />
Tournament Results<br />
<strong>The</strong> Men’s Member/Guest Golf Tournament, held <strong>November</strong><br />
3–5, <strong>2011</strong>, was a two-man match play tournament with teams<br />
fl ighted based on combined team handicap. <strong>The</strong> golf course was<br />
in great shape, and the greens were rolling between a 13 and 14 on<br />
the Stimpmeter. After each team played fi ve nine-hole matches a<br />
shoot-out consisting of the fl ight winners followed and came down<br />
to two fi nal teams: Team Kornblit/Dubiel and Team Allen/Smiley.<br />
Team Allen/Smiley made a great par on number 18 to edge out<br />
Team Kornblit/Dubiel. Congratulations to Team Allen/Smiley for<br />
their win, and thank you to all members and guests for participating<br />
in one of our best Member/Guest Tournaments yet.<br />
Overall Champion Overall Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Hunter Allen Mr. Mitch Kornblit<br />
Mr. Bill Smiley Mr. Bob Dubiel<br />
First Flight Winner First Flight Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Greg Coleman Dr. Bill Thompson<br />
Mr. Jim Womack Mr. Gary Thompson<br />
Second Flight Winner Second Flight Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Bruce Pendleton Mr. Obie O’Bannon<br />
Mr. Kerry Feiten Mr. Terry Collins<br />
Third Flight Winner Third Flight Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Peter Stanley Mr. Corey Fountain<br />
Mr. Richard Allman Mr. Chad Plunkett<br />
Fourth Flight Winner Fourth Flight Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Marion Alexander Mr. Buzz Rukin<br />
Mr. Charley Stafford Mr. Robert Shapiro<br />
Fifth Flight Winner Fifth Flight Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Dallas Daniel Mr. Bill Coad<br />
Mr. Ken Duncan Mr. Jeffrey Coad<br />
Sixth Flight Winner Sixth Flight Runner-Up<br />
Mr. Hunter Allen Mr. Mitch Kornblit<br />
Mr. Bill Smiley Mr. Bob Dubiel<br />
TFP Golf Course Blog<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> Golf Course Maintenance Department<br />
maintains an online blog to keep members informed on<br />
the most current golf course maintenance practices and<br />
latest course conditions. Follow the conversation!<br />
www.tfpagronomy.blogspot.com<br />
<strong>2011</strong> Golf Club Championship<br />
<strong>The</strong> Golf Club Championship is a <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> tradition<br />
held each year on Homecoming Weekend. Both days had<br />
great weather, with a little wind picking up after lunch on<br />
both days of the tournament. We had fast greens and great<br />
course conditions, thanks to Nelson and our maintenance<br />
staff. <strong>The</strong> results follow.<br />
Men’s Championship<br />
Flight: 1st Crockett<br />
Cobble 2nd Myles<br />
Gillespie<br />
Men’s 1st Flight:<br />
1st Bill Thompson<br />
2nd Ralph Eagle<br />
Men’s 2nd Flight:<br />
1st John Dunagan<br />
2nd Harry Morgan<br />
Ladies’ Championship Flight: Champion Jane Druten (second<br />
from right), Net Champion Peggy Gillenwater (second from left),<br />
Ladies’ Gross Runner Up Ellen Lawson (left), and Ladies’ Net<br />
Runner Up Doranne Coad<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 4 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Golf<br />
Nelson Caron Nominated<br />
for Board of GA Golf<br />
Course Superintendents<br />
Association TFP’s Golf Course Superintendent,<br />
Nelson Caron, was recently nominated<br />
by his peers to the Board of the Georgia<br />
Golf Course Superintendents<br />
Association. Nelson is an active<br />
member of the Georgia GCSA and is<br />
honored to receive this nomination.<br />
Congratulations Nelson!<br />
Golf Course Staff<br />
Volunteer at Events<br />
<strong>The</strong> assistants and superintendent in the Agronomy Department<br />
volunteer at one event each year to help with tournament preparation.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se events allow them to see other golf courses and how<br />
they prepare for events. <strong>The</strong>se are great networking and educational<br />
experiences that enable them to grow professionally and improve<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> golf course.<br />
<strong>The</strong> crew at the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship had to fi x all of the<br />
bunkers after six inches of rain fell on the golf course. TFP’s Assistant<br />
Golf Course Superintendent Matt Sumpter volunteered at this event.<br />
Assistant Matt Sumpter volunteered for the U.S. Senior Amateur<br />
Championship at Kinloch Golf Club in Richmond, Virginia on<br />
September 6. Matt was an intern at Kinloch Golf Club in 2008,<br />
which made going back to Richmond and volunteering for this<br />
event even more special. At the event, Matt helped the crew clean<br />
up the course after remnants of a tropical storm dumped more<br />
than six inches of rain on the entire course. Matt’s jobs consisted<br />
of fi xing heavily washed out bunkers, greens mowing, intermediate<br />
mowing, and other jobs that assisted the staff for tournament<br />
preparations.<br />
During the week of September 22–25, Jared Nemitz and Brooks<br />
Riddle volunteered for the PGA Tour Championship at East Lake<br />
Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia. Some of their tasks included mowing<br />
greens, cutting cups, and raking bunkers. Although working<br />
alongside other industry professionals was a great experience, Jared<br />
and Brooks felt the most valuable part of the week was witnessing<br />
different management practices used to achieve championship<br />
caliber ultradwarf putting greens.<br />
Ladies’ Member/Guest Golf<br />
Tournament Results<br />
This year’s Ladies’ Member/Guest tournament was another successful<br />
event. <strong>The</strong> weather the fi rst day was a little cooler than<br />
expected, but fresh hot cocoa served on the course made it “not so<br />
bad.” In spite of the temperature, we had some impressive scores<br />
of 62 by team Seigel/Pettingell, and two teams tied for second at<br />
64: team Seigel/Martin and team Ruhle/Biggar. With the start of<br />
the second round, the temperature had risen and virtually every<br />
team bettered its score from day one. With it coming down to the<br />
wire, team Seigel/Pettingell shot an impressive 57 to win by one<br />
stroke over team Ruhle/Biggar who carded a 58. Also the second<br />
team of Ruhle/Desalvio made a great turn around to fi nish 3rd<br />
with a score of 59. We would like to thank all of the ladies for<br />
participating and making this such a successful tournament. We<br />
look forward to seeing all of you again next year, along with some<br />
new faces.<br />
Winners:<br />
Beth Siegel and Peg Pettingell<br />
Runners Up:<br />
Jan Ruhle and Shirley Biggar<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 5 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Club News<br />
Club Board of Directors<br />
<strong>2011</strong>–2012<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> Club held its Annual Meeting and Board election<br />
on Thursday, October 20. In addition to updates on important<br />
Club topics, three Directors were newly-elected to the Club Board.<br />
Congratulations to Paul Hamilton, Farhana Mather, and John<br />
Samford, each of whom was elected to a three-year term. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
join six returning Directors on the Club Board: Bill Coad, Gene<br />
McQuown, Ed Schmults, Billy Webb, Bill Weil, and Steve Weiss.<br />
At a special organizational meeting held October 23, Bill Coad was<br />
nominated for president and approved by the Board.<br />
Special thanks go to Harry Morgan, Stephen Rabinowitz, and<br />
Austin Sullivan, each of whom completed their Board terms and<br />
were recognized at the meeting for their service to the Club.<br />
Mr. Weil was also recognized and thanked for his two years of<br />
service as Board President. Thank you to all Club members who<br />
participated in the election process this year.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Board is available to members, at any time, and is interested<br />
in any constructive feedback and/or observations aimed at improving<br />
<strong>Ford</strong>. Members may communicate directly with the Board via a<br />
special email address at board@fordplantation.com.<br />
TFP Featured<br />
in Southern<br />
Weddings<br />
Magazine<br />
A wedding recently held<br />
at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> is<br />
featured in the Fall <strong>2011</strong><br />
issue of Southern Weddings<br />
Magazine, proving<br />
once again that with an<br />
incomparable historic<br />
southern location,<br />
wonderful facilities,<br />
and an outstanding<br />
professional staff, <strong>Ford</strong> is the<br />
perfect setting for memorable weddings.<br />
<strong>The</strong> full article is available at www.fordplantation.<br />
com/fordplantation/Press_Room and on <strong>Ford</strong>’s Facebook<br />
page at www.facebook.com/<strong>Ford</strong><strong>Plantation</strong>FB.<br />
Equestrian Center<br />
Upgrades<br />
<strong>The</strong> Equestrian Center received several upgrades this summer, and<br />
the stable has even more comforts to offer horses. <strong>The</strong> stable aisles<br />
were overlaid with Pavesafe Pavers, creating a safer and more comfortable<br />
walking surface for horses and humans, as well as enhanc-<br />
ing the<br />
aesthetic<br />
beauty<br />
of the<br />
barn.<br />
<strong>The</strong><br />
installation<br />
of<br />
corner<br />
Hay<br />
Feeders<br />
means<br />
cleaner<br />
hay<br />
and less waste, and the new Automatic Waterers now provide an<br />
abundant supply of fresh water in every stall—no more lugging<br />
heavy water buckets! After two years of use and normal settling,<br />
the Arena has been re-graded and the footing has been enhanced<br />
with the addition of a course angular sand. We welcome everyone<br />
to visit to see the improvements.<br />
Sports Barn Renovation<br />
In early October, the “new-and-improved” Sports Barn re-opened!<br />
A special thanks to House Committee member Laura Lee Samford,<br />
who kindly donated her time and professional expertise to assist<br />
with the renovation. Members and guests will now enjoy the following<br />
improvements:<br />
• new carpeting throughout the facility, with tile fl ooring installed<br />
near the water fountains, ice machine, and locker room entrances;<br />
• freshly-painted and repaired interior walls;<br />
• enlarged<br />
workout<br />
and<br />
stretching<br />
area, with<br />
additional<br />
full-length<br />
mirrors;<br />
• re-arranged<br />
fi tness and<br />
exercise<br />
equipment<br />
oriented toward to the outdoors, with new televisions for your<br />
enjoyment;<br />
• wall-mounted water fountains (with an auxiliary chiller and<br />
water fi ltration system); the ice machine has been recessed and<br />
wall-mounted with a stainless steel cup holder next to the water<br />
fountains for convenience.<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 6 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Club News<br />
Employee Catfi sh Roundup<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> recently hosted two “Catfi sh Roundup” days<br />
for employees and their families. Catfi sh are plentiful in our interior<br />
lakes, and the periodic removal<br />
of these fi sh assists<br />
in our efforts to maintain<br />
healthy lake systems and<br />
vibrant fi sh and wildlife<br />
habitats—plus, the participants<br />
love it! When we<br />
host our seasonal Catfi sh<br />
Roundups, the only two<br />
requirements are that<br />
every catfi sh caught must<br />
be removed and all other<br />
species of fi sh must be<br />
returned to the lake (catch<br />
and release). More than<br />
300 cats were caught by<br />
the eager anglers.<br />
Members’ Only Web Site<br />
Now on Mobile Phones<br />
<strong>The</strong> members’ only web site is now available on all standard<br />
smart phones, including Blackberry, iPhone, Android, and more.<br />
Through this mobile app, you will be able to view statements,<br />
make reservations, and visit your online club community in a user<br />
friendly mobile view.<br />
TFP Foundation Fund<br />
Donates to Fort Stewart<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> Foundation Fund (TFPFF) was established to<br />
provide a means by which TFP members can make tax deductible<br />
contributions to worthy organizations in our community under the<br />
name of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>. Our fi rst disbursement from the<br />
Fund, in the amount of $8,000, was recently presented to the Warrior<br />
Transition Battalion Occupation <strong>The</strong>rapy Clinic at Fort Stewart<br />
by Club President Bill Weil. Our sincere thank you to the members<br />
who have generously contributed to this worthy cause. Donations<br />
to the Fund are accepted year-round through the Savannah CommunityFoundation.<br />
Please<br />
make<br />
checks<br />
payable<br />
to the<br />
“SavannahCommunity<br />
Foundation,” and write “<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>” on the memo line.<br />
Please mail the checks to 7393 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah,<br />
GA 31406. Donors will receive an acknowledgement letter<br />
from the Savannah Community Foundation for tax purposes.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> /<br />
Fort Stewart Culinary<br />
Alliance: TFP Featured<br />
on WTOC<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>/Fort Stewart Culinary Alliance was recently<br />
featured on WTOC news. Reporter Melanie Ruberti spent some<br />
time at <strong>Ford</strong> interviewing Executive Chef Juan Carlos and the soldiers<br />
from Fort Stewart who participate in the program. Five days a<br />
week, four Fort Stewart soldier chefs work side-by-side with <strong>Ford</strong>’s<br />
culinary team, learning how to prepare breads, desserts, and entrees<br />
from scratch. <strong>The</strong> link to the WTOC story is here: http://www.<br />
wtoc.com/story/15387444/soldiers-train-with-executive-chef.<br />
More information on the program is on the members’ only web<br />
site under Club News, Food & Beverage.<br />
<strong>Ford</strong> 100—Register TODAY!<br />
Join the <strong>Ford</strong> 100 and jump start your health and fi tness routine<br />
for the New Year. Starting January 1, 2012 and continuing for 100<br />
days, members will log 100 miles in 100 days with walking, biking,<br />
and/or running. Members need not be on property to participate.<br />
We will schedule group walks based on participants’ availability.<br />
Optional<br />
health<br />
classes<br />
and<br />
seminars<br />
will be<br />
offered<br />
in conjunction<br />
with the program. All participants will receive a commemorative<br />
t-shirt, bag, water bottle, and pedometer. <strong>The</strong> classes and<br />
dinner are a la carte. We will hold a celebratory dinner on Thursday,<br />
April 12, <strong>2011</strong> for everyone who completes the 100 miles. <strong>The</strong> cost<br />
is $30, and members may sponsor an employee. For more information,<br />
please contact Michelle Wadas at spa@fordplantation.com<br />
or 912–756–3062. Please register for this program through the<br />
members’ only web site. (To ensure your correct t-shirt size, please<br />
register by Friday, <strong>December</strong> 9.)<br />
Unlimited Monthly<br />
Fitness Classes<br />
Interested in heart-pumping cardio classes, soothing stretch classes,<br />
and everything in between? <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> offers unlimited<br />
fi tness classes for $175/month/person. Contact Spa & Fitness<br />
Director Michelle Wadas at 912–756–3062 or spa@fordplantation.<br />
com for more information.<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 7 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Club News<br />
Thanksgiving at<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong><br />
Several special events have been scheduled for Thanksgiving<br />
weekend at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>. For a complete description of<br />
each event, and to RSVP, please visit the Calendar & Events page<br />
on the members’<br />
only web site.<br />
• 3K Turkey Trot<br />
• Picasso for a<br />
Night<br />
• Thanksgiving<br />
Buffet (two seatings<br />
available)<br />
• Oyster Roast<br />
• Kids’ Nature<br />
Camp<br />
• Pony Rides<br />
Thanksgiving “To-Go”<br />
Dinners Available<br />
We are offering two choices for Thanksgiving “To-Go” Dinners<br />
this year. For those who prefer a traditional meal, choose<br />
any combination of the above menu, in the quantity you need.<br />
Pricing will be based on each individual order. For those who<br />
prefer something a little “less traditional,” enjoy a delicious<br />
house made lasagna, accompanied by a fresh fi eld greens salad<br />
and a whole apple pie. Meals will be packaged to serve four<br />
people and cost $55. We regret that we are unable to accept half<br />
orders or substitutions with this option. Orders for either meal<br />
must be placed by Monday, <strong>November</strong> 21. Please contact Denise<br />
Crum at reservations@fordplantation.com or 912–756–5666 to<br />
place your order. Pick-up will be held Thanksgiving Day from<br />
3:00–4:00 p.m. at <strong>The</strong> Clubhouse.<br />
ARB Update—Building<br />
Activity at <strong>Ford</strong><br />
Summer and fall were busy seasons for home building at<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>. <strong>The</strong> Architectural Review Board, which<br />
provides architectural and landscaping design oversight for the<br />
<strong>Plantation</strong>, provides the following update. Should you have any<br />
questions regarding the ARB, please contact Karen Dill at 912–<br />
756–5796 or kdill@fordplantation.com.<br />
• Three homes that were started in 2010 were completed. <strong>The</strong><br />
completed homes were Gonzales-Lot 65, Rockwood-Lot 66,<br />
and O’Bannon-Lot 251. A small addition was also completed<br />
for the Bartletts-Lot 82.<br />
• Additions have been approved for Kopac-Lot 68, Hamilton-Lot<br />
213, and Coleman-Lot CH34. <strong>The</strong> Hamilton addition is now<br />
under construction. Work on the other two projects is expected<br />
to begin in the next few months.<br />
• Construction also recently began on two new homes: Wickes-Lot<br />
97 and Davies-Lot 190. <strong>The</strong>se homes are in the “framing/dryingin”<br />
stages. A garage addition is underway for the Sawyer property<br />
at Lot CH42.<br />
• Plans for a new home and dependent structures on the Fielding<br />
property-Lot M8 are expected to be presented for the ARB’s<br />
review at the <strong>December</strong> meeting.<br />
First Annual Halloween<br />
Costume Pony Parade<br />
<strong>The</strong> fi rst annual<br />
Halloween Costume<br />
Pony Parade<br />
was a huge success<br />
and lots of fun for<br />
the kids, parents,<br />
Equestrian Center<br />
staff, and ponies!<br />
Our parents and<br />
kids sure are creative,<br />
and we were<br />
quite a sight heading<br />
to <strong>The</strong> Clubhouse!<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 8 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Outdoor Pursuits—Nature, Fishing, & Shooting<br />
Hunt for Big Red Results<br />
Perfect weather, light winds, hungry fi sh, and eager anglers all<br />
added up to a great fi shing tournament on October 15. <strong>The</strong> Hunt<br />
for Big Red had 35 participants fi shing on 10 boats, which is a new<br />
record for this event. <strong>The</strong> large adult red drum are fall spawners<br />
and school up in our sound and in the near shore sand bars during<br />
October and <strong>November</strong>. <strong>The</strong>y are great sport on light tackle and<br />
thrill anglers up and down the Georgia coast. <strong>The</strong> ocean running<br />
red drum (also known as bull reds) can weigh up to 50 pounds but<br />
most fi sh are between 25 and 40 pounds.<br />
This year, 25 fi sh were caught during the Tournament. A big congratulations<br />
to Capt Mike Womble and his crew, Bob Bernstein and<br />
Myles, Myles Jr., and Jack Gillespie for their fi rst place win with a<br />
total of six redfi sh. Jack also caught the longest fi sh—49 inches.<br />
Above top, Drew Davis holds a red for the Gee Chee Gal team:<br />
Brent Haglund, Reed Cole, Dick Piggot. Above, the Tourney<br />
winners: Bob Berstein, Myles Gillespie, Mike Womble, Myles<br />
Jr., and Jack Gillespie pose with fi rst place trophies.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Gee Chee Gal’s crew, Brent Haglund, Reed Cole, Warren<br />
Batts, and Dick Piggot, took second place with fi ve fi sh. Dick<br />
Piggot also caught a red with 34 spots, which landed him fi rst<br />
place in the most-spots contest.<br />
“It was a perfect day for a Fall fi shing tournament,” said Fuzzy<br />
Davis TFP’s Director of Outdoor Pursuits. “It was one of the<br />
most calm days that I have seen this year and the ocean was as<br />
absolutely beautiful.” More photos are available on <strong>Ford</strong>’s Facebook<br />
page at http://www.facebook.com/<strong>Ford</strong><strong>Plantation</strong>FB.<br />
Gator Spotting <strong>2011</strong><br />
What a wonderful Gator Spotting season for <strong>2011</strong>. We were<br />
able to tag over 10 new small alligators, each of which was<br />
numbered and then named by the participants in the fi eld.<br />
<strong>The</strong> tagged alligators will be monitored for growth and<br />
movements around Lake Clara.<br />
Gator Spotting begins by choosing a canoe and a partner<br />
and setting out on the lake to look for all sorts of wildlife.<br />
This year we saw several species of bats, which were greedily<br />
eating many different insect species, frogs, fi sh, shrimp,<br />
raccoons, deer, and even a Great Horned Owl. It is always<br />
exciting to get out on the lake at night and explore the magnifi<br />
cent wildlife that <strong>Ford</strong> has to offer.<br />
<strong>The</strong> ultimate goal is to, of course, locate a few alligators. We<br />
then will try to capture a small alligator to measure and tag.<br />
Each tag is numbered and will stay with the alligator indefi -<br />
nitely. All the records go into a database located at <strong>The</strong> Oyster<br />
House. Each time we recapture an alligator, we can tell<br />
where it has traveled, how much it has grown, and the overall<br />
health of the animal. It truly is one of the great adventures<br />
that we have here at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>.<br />
We hope to see y’all out there next year for another exciting<br />
Gator Spotting season!<br />
Lucia Powell, granddaughter of Members Madeline and Mike<br />
Sekara, with a gator caught during a recent Gator Spotting with<br />
<strong>Ford</strong> Naturalist Mike Womble.<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 9 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
Equestrian Pursuits<br />
Equine Connection<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> Equestrian Center is proud to offer “Equine<br />
Connection,” an innovative personal discovery program where<br />
participants explore their communication, relationship, and<br />
leadership styles through interactions with a horse. Created and<br />
developed by Equestrian Center Manager Sheryl Jordan more than<br />
15 years ago, this program is available to everyone and does not<br />
require any previous horse-handling or riding experience.<br />
This unique program offers individuals an opportunity to connect<br />
and interact with horses by learning how these animals communicate<br />
with us and interact with each other as a herd. Participants will recognize<br />
powerful parallels between the horse and human relationships.<br />
Through groundwork and round-pen exercises, participants will<br />
learn how to relate to horses on many levels. Through this interaction,<br />
they will develop a deeper awareness of their communication,<br />
relationship, and leadership styles and skills.<br />
By successfully achieving goals working with the horse in the roundpen,<br />
participants will be given effective communication and leadership<br />
tools to carry into other aspects of their lives. Bring an open<br />
mind and open heart to the program to maximize this opportunity.<br />
“Let nature be your teacher.”<br />
—William Wordsworth<br />
Leadership Development<br />
Through the Equine Connection program, participants will develop<br />
the following skills: listen on a higher level, trust your intuition, use<br />
personal strength with humility, withhold judgment until a relationship<br />
has been developed, practice open-mindedness, be fully<br />
engaged in the moment, be aware<br />
of the power in your presence,<br />
recognize communication<br />
effectiveness and incongruence,<br />
balance pride with humility, direct<br />
and lead by trust versus intimidation,<br />
and fully realize the responsibility<br />
that comes with leadership.<br />
Through interactions with the<br />
horse, you will fi nd a higher level<br />
of authenticity and empowerment.<br />
Contact and Pricing Info<br />
Equestrian Center Manager Sheryl Jordan has facilitated this program<br />
for corporate management teams, men’s and women’s groups,<br />
inner-city students, families, and at-risk individuals. <strong>The</strong>y have all<br />
learned the value of leadership, authenticity, communication, and<br />
healthy relationship-building skills with the horse as a key teaching<br />
partner. <strong>The</strong> fee for the Equine Connection program is $50/hour<br />
for a private session and $25/hour/person for a group session. <strong>The</strong><br />
program is designed in 4–hour (minimum) and 8–hour (full day)<br />
sessions; however, it can be customized to your individual or group<br />
needs. For more information or to schedule your program, please<br />
contact Sheryl at 912–756–2239 or stables@fordplantation.com.<br />
Equine Connection Agenda<br />
• Welcome & Introduction<br />
• Overview of Program, Goals & Objectives,<br />
Safety Guidelines<br />
• Notes, Quotes & Nuggets of Knowledge<br />
• Meet the Horses and Select a Working Partner<br />
• Grooming & Leading (Optional)<br />
• Round-Pen Sessions<br />
• Riding (Optional) Bareback and/or In the Saddle<br />
• Journaling & Closing Notes<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> Welcomes New Members<br />
• Paul and Kim Nott, Designated by Mitch Kornblit<br />
• Jim and Christina Trolinger, Lot 58, 1654 Dublin Drive<br />
• Dublin Drive Compound, LLC (David and Sandy Gyenes and Linda Holley), Lot 79, 99 Dublin Drive<br />
• Will and Sally Price, Lot 67, 949 Dublin Drive<br />
• Greg and Sheri Mortimer, Designated by JT Turner<br />
• Anthony and Savine Fielding, Lot M8, 200 Captains Walk<br />
• David and Karen Reczik, Lot M30, 103 Captains Walk<br />
Our Sporting Life—<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong> Page 10 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
<strong>November</strong> <strong>2011</strong><br />
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday<br />
5<br />
8:30am Men’s Member/Guest<br />
Golf Tournament<br />
4<br />
8:30am Men’s Member/Guest<br />
Golf Tournament<br />
6pm Wild Game Dinner<br />
3<br />
8:30am Men’s Member/Guest<br />
Golf Tournament<br />
2<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
4pm Junior Golf Clinic<br />
5:30pm Ladies Night Out at<br />
<strong>The</strong> Spa<br />
1<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
12<br />
8:30am Ladies’ Member/Guest<br />
Golf Tournament<br />
11<br />
8:30am Ladies’ Member/Guest<br />
Golf Tournament<br />
Man Cave Spa Day<br />
10<br />
8:30am Ladies’ Member/Guest<br />
Golf Tournament<br />
9<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
6pm Round Table Dinner<br />
8<br />
10:30am All Natural Airbrush<br />
Body Spray Tanning<br />
Seminar<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
7<br />
6:30am Photograph the<br />
Ogeechee River<br />
at Sunrise<br />
6<br />
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME<br />
ENDS<br />
18 19<br />
17<br />
10am Sporting Clays Fun Shoot<br />
3pm Photo Club<br />
5pm Wine Tasting<br />
6pm Book Club<br />
16<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
5pm Evening of Equine Art<br />
14 15<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
13<br />
6:30am Cumberland Island<br />
Adventure<br />
Private Event at <strong>The</strong> Main<br />
House<br />
26<br />
25<br />
6pm Thanksgiving Oyster<br />
Roast Hay Ride and<br />
Marshmallow Roast<br />
24<br />
11:30am Thanksgiving Buffet<br />
2:00pm Thanksgiving Buffet<br />
23<br />
8:30am Turkey Trot<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
6pm Picasso for a Night<br />
21 22<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
20<br />
6pm <strong>The</strong>me Dinner: Italian<br />
9am Kids’ Nature Camp<br />
11:30am Soups and Subs<br />
3pm Pony Rides<br />
THANKSGIVING<br />
30<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
27 28 29<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
For the latest Club news, please visit the members’ only section<br />
of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> web site (www.fordplantation.com).<br />
This information is current as of <strong>November</strong> 16, <strong>2011</strong>.<br />
Reservations are required for all events.<br />
For more information, and to RSVP, please visit the members’<br />
only web site (http://fordplantation.back9links.com).<br />
For questions, please call 912–756–5666.<br />
Circa 1734—Fall 2010 Page 9 <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong>
<strong>December</strong> <strong>2011</strong><br />
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday<br />
3<br />
2<br />
Interclub Golf Tournament with<br />
Spring Island at TFP (All Day)<br />
4pm Cooking Demonstration:<br />
Soups<br />
1<br />
Interclub Golf Tournament<br />
at Spring Island (All Day)<br />
1pm Equine Connection<br />
Program (Ladies)<br />
9 10<br />
Dressage Clinic with Gerhard<br />
Ablinger<br />
6pm Wine Dinner<br />
8<br />
10am Outdoor Pursuits Clinic<br />
10:30am DIY Spa Body Scrubs<br />
4pm Photo Club<br />
7<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
6pm Round Table Dinner<br />
5 6 5pm Bridge Club<br />
4<br />
Richmond Hill <strong>2011</strong> Holiday<br />
Tour of Homes<br />
3pm Nature Hike<br />
16 17<br />
15<br />
10am Sporting Clays Fun Shoot<br />
5pm Wine Tasting<br />
6pm Book Club<br />
14<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Ladies’ Tea<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
5:30pm Ladies Night Out at<br />
<strong>The</strong> Spa<br />
12 13<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
11<br />
Dressage Clinic with Gerhard<br />
Ablinger<br />
24<br />
9am Children’s Breakfast with<br />
Santa with Photographer<br />
6pm Christmas Eve Dinner<br />
23<br />
4pm Christmas Caroling and<br />
Happy Hour<br />
6pm Oyster Roast<br />
22<br />
10am Outdoor Pursuits Clinic<br />
21<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
6pm Picasso for a Night<br />
19 20<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
18<br />
6pm <strong>The</strong>me Dinner: Puerto<br />
Rican<br />
CHRISTMAS EVE<br />
HANUKKAH BEGINS<br />
31<br />
30<br />
1pm Pony Play Days<br />
5pm Master Mixologist Contest<br />
29<br />
1pm Pony Play Days<br />
28<br />
1pm Pony Play Days<br />
10am Ladies’ Golf Clinic<br />
2pm Men’s Golf Clinic<br />
3pm Wednesday Afternoon Golf<br />
Play (9 Hole)<br />
6pm Wine, Women and Equine<br />
27<br />
26<br />
Food & Beverage Open<br />
1pm Pony Play Days<br />
25<br />
Club Closed<br />
9am Equine Connection<br />
Program (Kids)<br />
New Year’s Eve Celebration<br />
Food and Beverage Open<br />
1pm Pony Play Days<br />
5pm Bridge Club<br />
CHRISTMAS<br />
For the latest Club news, please visit the members’ only section<br />
of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Ford</strong> <strong>Plantation</strong> web site (www.fordplantation.com).<br />
This information is current as of <strong>November</strong> 16, <strong>2011</strong>.<br />
Reservations are required for all events.<br />
For more information, and to RSVP, please visit the members’<br />
only web site (http://fordplantation.back9links.com).<br />
For questions, please call 912–756–5666.