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Super Smash Bros. Tournament Sunday, January 19 Glow Party at the Pool Pickleball Club Saturday, September 5 Championships Fireflies to Sunrise Friday, January 24 Friday, September 11 Silver Paddle Fitness Kickoff at Merion Saturday, January September 25 19
Vol. CXLIV No. 8 September 2020
CRICKET CHRONICLE The Merion Cricket Club
Welcome Back! EXTENDING THE OUTDOOR SEASON THIS FALL
The Great Lawn, Outdoor Dining and the Pool created the perfect backdrop for rainbows and an amazing summer at Merion. Now, more than ever, we can appreciate our expansive and beautiful campus—the perfect blend of historic and modern facilities. The ability of our campus to accommodate so many interests outdoors—dining, tennis, fitness, squash and croquet to name a few—allowed summer at Merion to continue with great enthusiasm. As we look forward to seeing our membership return from vacation, we recognize some may not have visited Merion since March. We continue to appreciate how our membership and staff have adhered to our operating protocols designed to support your health and safety.
As we move into the fall, our management team has worked diligently to develop a line-up of exciting outdoor events and programs. We look forward to extending the outdoor season into the fall and offering options for all ages to enjoy the Club.
Dining & Entertainment For events and dining, reserve online or contact the Front Desk Receptionist at frontdesk@merioncricket.com.
Che Dinin Series on the Porch Chef Danny Profita and the culinary team at Merion have created a variety of specialty selections available on the following nights to elevate your experience while dining on the Porch or in the Cricket. Make your dining reservation for an engaging night out at the Club.
The Classics at Merion: Car Show Sunday, September 20, 11:30 a.m.
Connect with members who share a passion for classic and exotic cars. This complimentary event for the whole family features a DJ, food stations and children’s activities. Register your vehicle by contacting Michael Collins at ext. 224 or mcollins@merioncricket.com for your chance to win best in show.
Save the Date Rocktoberfest Friday, September 25
BBQ Smokehouse Tuesday, September 15
Ladies’ Fall Luncheon & Market Wednesday, October 7
Tomahawk Steak for Two Thursday, September 24
Eagles vs. Steelers Tailgate Sunday, October 11, noon–4 p.m.
Vegan Prix Fixe Monday, September 28
Men’s Night at the Bistro Friday, October 16
Chateaubriand for Two Thursday, October 8
Fright Night Friday, October 30
Pasta Night Sunday, October 18
Family Halloween Party Saturday, October 31
Wild Game Thursday, October 22
Sunrise
Fireflies to
Yuengs & Wings Your favorite Eagles game day special is back! There will be 25 cent wings and $1 Yuengling Lagers available in the Courtside Café and Bistro Twenty20 this football season!
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Did You KNOW
Breakfast is served Monday–Friday in the Cricket Room. À la carte brunch is served Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on the Porch and in the Cricket Room.
MAKING MEMOR I ES
Friday, September 11, 6 p.m.
Dig out that old tent and don’t forget the sleeping bags; it’s time to put those scout skills to work! Join us for The Great Lawn Campout! Bonfire? S’mores? It wouldn’t be a campout without them. A campfirestyle dinner, outdoor movie on the big screen, and family activities led by Ben Faber are the highlights of this annual event. A light breakfast will be served on Saturday morning to round out this overnight event. There will be a signature bar available until 10 p.m. The Great Lawn must be fully vacated by 9 a.m. Saturday. The cost is $30 for adults and $20 for kids.
Grace Hau, Ayae Herman and Juen Kim
Sonya & Mark Weigle at a Night in Nantucket
The Thompson family and the DeSimone’s at the Summer Wine Tasting
Cricket Chronicle
The Pool A Message from Christine Bosch, Pool Operations Manager As we approach the end of our main season it is time to look ahead to some exciting updates coming to the Aquatics schedule in September! The peak pool season ends on Labor Day, at which point we will enter our shoulder season until September 30. Members can look forward to expanded programming in our heated pool to include lap swimming throughout the day, more Aquatics fitness classes in the early afternoons and evenings, after school swim lessons, and group specific events.
Weekly Programming Teen Tuesdays
September 8, 15, 22 & 29, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Members ages 12–18 get together for organized swim sports and activities at the Pool. Food will be provided. Reservations required. The cost is $10 per person.
Adult Swim
Thursdays, September 10, 17 & 24, 6–7:30 p.m. Members ages 18+ are invited to use the Pool for adults-only swimming and drink specials from Bistro Twenty20. Reservations required.
After-School Swim Lessons Mondays & Wednesdays
Lessons are by appointment only.
Please note the swim categories are as follows: Lap, Open, and Family swim. Lap swim is for members wishing to reserve a lane for an in-water workout or swim. Open swim is for members to use the pool at their convenience. Family swim simply denotes a higher volume of families and children at the pool. The full aquatic schedule will be posted in the bulletin board at the Pool. Pool members may invite their extended family to join them at the Pool, and Merion members who are not Pool members may visit the Pool three times as a guest of themselves. As a reminder, there is a $10 guest fee for Merion members who are not Pool members.
A Summer to Remember
Glow Party
Saturday, September 5, 8–10 p.m. We are lighting up the night at the Pool for a glow party! Wear your brightest colors as the DJ plays your favorite tunes! This is definitely a dive right in type of party! The cost is $15 per person and includes glow snacks for the kids and a glow treat for the adults.
Vino and Vinyasa Wednesday, September 16, 7 p.m.
Join Christine by the Pool for a one-hour slow flow yoga class and wine tasting. The cost is $25 per person.
Closing Schedule The Pool will close for recreational swim Wednesday, September 30. Lap swimming and aquatic fitness programming will continue through October as weather permits.
Tennis
Croquet
Register online or contact Ben Faber at ext. 209 or bfaber@merioncricket.com.
Croquet Invitational
Clinics
September 19 & 20
Adult Outdoor Fall Clinics September 7–November 1
Morning Clinics Monday–Friday, 9:30–11 a.m. Please review the tennis section of the website for full schedule by level. Early Morning, Evening & Weekend Clinics Review the tennis section of the website for scheduled days and times.
Junior Outdoor Fall Clinics September 7–November 1
10 & Under Clinics Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 2–3:30 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday, 4–5:30 p.m. Next Gen Clinics Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 4–5:30 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday, 2–3:30 p.m. Tournament High Performance Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 4–6 p.m.
Indoor Season This season we anticipate offering programming outside as long as possible to allow more members time to enjoy the outdoor courts. We are not expecting to go inside until late October or early November, weather permitting.
Labor Day Round Robin Monday, September 7, 10 a.m.
This annual round robin is always a crowd pleaser and a fun way to end the summer with friends. Reservations are required and the event is limited to 32 participants. After the event, make a reservation at Bistro Twenty20 to enjoy Margaritaville Merion style.
Awards Night
Sunday, September 13, 5 p.m. Close out the summer season and celebrate both the Adult and Junior Club Championships. This event will be held outside and will feature a social round robin and a one point tournament in the afternoon before the festivities begin in the Events Garden for all to sit down for complimentary appetizers. Reservations are required and the event is limited to 100 participants. Continue your evening by making a reservation at Bistro Twenty20 for dinner.
This 20+ year tradition continues! For 2020, the event will be open to members only. Seasoned, new and “Croquet and Rosé” enthusiasts: join in this social competition. We invite everyone to sign up and enjoy singles and or doubles golf croquet and or six wicket croquet. Play one game, play all day, play one day or play both days. The cost is $25 per player. Sign up with Whitney Thain at ext. 260 or wthain@merioncricket.com.
Croquet and Cheer is Back Mondays, 4 p.m.
Reservations are required; limited to 16 participants. Play golf croquet and bring on the cheer by making a reservation at Bistro Twenty20 after play! It’s a fun chance to play with new and old friends.
Squash Junior Training
September 8–November 1 (8 weeks) Depending on your junior’s school schedule our staff is available to support your training needs. Please remember, due to our protocols, space is limited and reservations will fill-up quickly. Beginners: Mini Squash Monday–Thursday, 3:30–4:15 p.m., 4:15–5 p.m. This program is for juniors ages 6-9 who are new to squash. Intermediate: Bronze/Silver Level Monday–Thursday, 5–5:45 p.m.
Athletics
Advanced: Middle & High School Level Monday–Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
A Message from Whitney Thain, Director of Athletics
Bridge
We are happy to continue outdoor athletics for September and October as this time of year we have the best weather. We pride ourselves as an athletic department on our ability to offer diverse programs for all ages and interests while remaining committed to an environment focused on the safety of our members and staff. We are very fortunate to have the Great Lawn, the Grounds Team and the directors to create engaging and entertaining programming. As a reminder, reservations, which can be made online, are required for all events, clinics and court times. Stay informed by reading our weekly emails and reviewing the website.
BridgeBaseOnline (BBO) Tuesdays, 1:15 p.m.
Join your bridge friends every week for a twohour game (18 boards, no robots, no sit-outs). Please join us and encourage your partners to do the same. The cost is $5 (paid with Bridge Base Dollars).To learn more and to register, please contact Dianne Meyer at dameyer1620@comcast.net.
Vol. CXLIV No. 8 September 2020
Paddle
Fitness
Reserve online or contact Jonathan Moyer at ext. 266 or jmoyer@merioncricket.com.
Please reserve online or contact the Fitness Center at ext. 388 or email fitness@merioncricket.com.
Fall Season This fall/winter the paddle program will offer time on the courts in a fun and relaxed environment. We will continue to practice social distance and follow the protocols to support the health and safety of our members. Matches will be played via interclub league (if permitted) or as an “in-house” league (men play in the evening and ladies play during the day). We will offer a mixed league on the weekends as well. Please note: reservations are required for court play and events.
Intraclub League Schedule
Men’s: Wednesday & Thursday evenings Ladies’: Monday & Wednesday mornings Mixed: Sunday noontime
Season Opener
Friday, September 18, 6–8 p.m. All members are invited to kick off the season with some paddle. This is a complimentary event! Registration required.
Ladies’ Camp
September 21–25, 9 a.m.–noon Merion interclub ladies are invited to participate in camp as we focus on tactics, drills, and strategy. The cost is $72 per day or $215 for 3 days. Register online.
Beginners’ Camp
September 21 & 22, 12:30–2 p.m. Interested in learning paddle? This camp will teach you the fundamentals. Price is $36 per day or $70 for both days. Register online.
Men’s Workshop September 21 & 23, 6–8 p.m.
Hours of Operation Starting September 8
Your athletic team is looking forward to seeing you on the paddle courts (picture taken in 2019)
Weekly Cup Practices Beginning September 29
Practices will be will be offered every week. The cost is $36 per clinic. Cup 1 & 2: Thursday, 8:30–10 a.m.; Friday, 10–11:30 a.m. Cup 4: Tuesday, 9:30–11 a.m.; Friday, 8:30–10 a.m. Cup 7 & 8: Tuesday, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; Thursday, 10–11:30 a.m.; Friday, 1:30–3 p.m. Wire Clinics: Tuesday, 2–2:30 p.m.; Thursday, 11:30 a.m.–noon ($12 per clinic)
Mixed A/B
Tuesday, October 6, 6:30–9 p.m.
Men’s Matches Start October 7 & 8, 6:30 p.m.
Eagles Tailgate Party Sundays, September–December
Ladies’ Margarita Night Tuesday, October 13, 6:30–9 p.m.
Ladies’ Weekend League Begins Sunday, October 18, 11 a.m.
Ladies’ Matches Start October 26 & 28, 9 a.m.
Fitness Center Monday–Thursday, 6 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday, 6 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Functional Training Studio (CBD) Monday–Friday, 6–9 a.m. (members); 10 a.m.–6 p.m. personal training Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Classes will continue to be held on the Great Lawn in our socially distanced fitness circles. Don’t forget to bring your own mat, towel and water. In case of rain, we will use designated areas that allow social distancing like the Sun Lounge and Ballroom. Only Fitness Center members are permitted to attend classes. Register for adult and junior classes through the mywellness app.
Fitness Kickoff
Saturday, September 19, 10 a.m. Register in advance and bring your mat, towel and water; limited space available. Join the Fitness Committee and Merion’s certified personal trainers as they lead you through a motivating workout on the Great Lawn to start this season off on the right foot. After the workout, stay for Merion’s first Member vs. Athletic Staff dodgeball game.
Pickleball Please reserve online or contact Jonathan Moyer at ext. 266 or jmoyer@merioncricket.com.
Grip and Rip Classic Friday, September 25, 5:30–7 p.m.
This is your opportunity to work with the coaches on your game and help get the rust off from this summer. The cost is $30 per player. Register online.
Have a great night at this social round robin where members compete while having a few laughs. Open to all levels, the cost is $10 per person. White attire is required, and all sign-ups must be made online.
Weekly Men’s Night
Outdoor Clinics
Beginning Monday, September 28, 6–8 p.m. Learn some tips from the staff and join other members for some practice matches. Open to all men and all levels. Ellen Maguire is ready for her next shot
Open Play: Monday, 8–9:30 a.m. Tips & Tactics: Wednesday, 1–2:30 p.m. Tips & Tactics: Thursday, 9–10:30 a.m. Open Play: Saturday, 10:30 a.m.–noon
Membership Updates This is your Club. The Committee on Admissions needs your feedback, positive or otherwise, on the candidates in the admissions process. All communication and correspondence will be held in the strictest of confidence. The Committee appreciates your communication via letter or email with comments about any of the following candidates. Email messages may be sent to admissions@merioncricket.com. All Committee on Admissions members are available for a confidential phone call. Contact Kimberly Brady, Director of Member Relations, at extension 202 or email her at kbrady@merioncricket.com.
Introduction of spouse or domestic partner: Ms. Christina Wiskowski Member: Margaretta Walton New reinstatement under consideration: Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Berman (Tracey Ku) Mr. & Mrs. George Marucci, Jr. (Sandra Bogle) Proposer: Edmund Garno III Ms. Polly Staples Proposer: Ann Zabel
Candidates under continued consideration: Rev. Schaunel Steinnagel & Mr. Matthew Taylor Proposer: Mimi Drake Mr. & Mrs. Michael Feild (Jacqueline DeRitis) Proposers: Gerald & Jennifer Ronon Mr. & Mrs. A. Patrick McNulty (Elizabeth McAndrews) Proposers: Chris & Kirsten Coma
In Memory Mr. Peter Coggins Elected: November 20, 2006 Died: May 15, 2020 Mrs. Pauline Bell Elected: January 15, 1996 Died: August 11, 2020 Mrs. Martha Ferguson Elected: March 12, 1968 Died: July 5, 2020
Committee on Admissions Lauren B. Royer, Chair Frederick M. Campbell, II Karen Ernst James S. Evans Robert F. Grieb Robert T. Hastings Lauren E. Patterson Abigail Peterson
Cricket Chronicle Editorial Committee Chrissy Keffer – Chair communications@merioncricket.com Diane Classen Louise Havens Susanna Saunders
IMPORTANT REMINDERS In order to maintain our commitment towards safety, we ask for your full support in adhering to the following important Club protocols: • Members are required to wear face coverings at all times while on Club property. Face coverings may only be removed when a member is participating in an activity (e.g., seated at a table to dine, on court, working out or swimming in the Pool). • Reservations are required for all activities at the Club (except eating in the Cricket Bar). • Remember to exercise social distancing at all times.
Affinity Clubs
• Sales of alcohol for on-premises consumption are only permissible as part of a larger transaction that includes a meal purchase. A member who wishes to consume alcohol on premise must also purchase a meal; a group of members that wish to consume alcohol on premise may do so as long as a meal is part of the purchase made by the group. Additional drinks may be purchased while the member is consuming the meal, but no further drinks may be purchased after the meal is finished.
French Club
• Bar service of food and/or alcohol is prohibited.
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Murphy (Siobhan McCartan) Proposer: Jarrett Kling Mr. Robert Katz & Mr. Jonathan Koffler Proposer: Noel Butcher-Hanley
James G. Staples Peter A. Thompson Ann Thorkelson Director of Member Relations, Kimberly Brady, kbrady@merioncricket.com
Thursday, October 1, 6:30 p.m. Join us for an interesting hour of conversation via Zoom. Don’t worry about how well you speak French; this is a fun, informal group. We have a wonderful facilitator who helps us converse as we discuss movies, books, travel, etc. The goal is to enjoy speaking the language, so please don’t be intimidated.
• Guests are permitted for dining only.
If you have any questions, please contact Martha Cyphers at martha.cyphers@gmail.com. The cost is $10 per person for the facilitator who will be participating and leading the discussion. The Merion Cricket Club • 325 Montgomery Avenue, Haverford, Pennsylvania 19041-1899 • 610-642-5800 • info@merioncricket.com