Briar Club THE
Q U A R T E R LY N E W S L E T T E R
JANUARY - MARCH 2014
Club Information
Hours of OPERATION OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm (713) 622-3667
FAMILY POOL Re-opens in March for the season! See "Club News" on pg. 8 for hours!
LAP POOL
Monday-Friday 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 6:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
FITNESS CENTER Monday-Friday 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 6:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
TENNIS COURTS Monday-Friday 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 6:00 am - 11:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
SNACK BAR
Re-opens in March for the season! See "Club News" on pg. 8 for hours!
BRIAR SHOP
Monday-Thursday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday-Saturday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Sunday 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
KIDS CLUB
Monday By Reservation Only 8:00 am - 2:00 pm Tuesday-Thursday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday-Saturday 8:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
THE LOFT (AGES 7 & UP)
Tuesday-Thursday 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Friday 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 9:00 pm Sunday 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Tuesday-Friday 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 10:00 am & 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Sunday 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
LOUNGE DINING Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 am - 9:00 pm Friday 11:30 am - 10:00 pm Saturday 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
GRILLE DINING (LUNCH) Tuesday-Friday 11:30 am - 2:00 pm Saturday 11:30 am - 5:30 pm Sunday Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
GRILLE DINING (DINNER)
CONTENTS
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 14 15
Manager's Letter
President's Letter Membership Master Plan Employees Club News Club Events Aquatics Fitness Tennis Youth
The James Broach SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
Tuesday-Friday 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm Saturday 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
The Briar Club MISSION STATEMENT
KNOX GREENE, WINNER 2013
is a member-owned, recreational and social club where a community of families and individuals enjoy the highest standards of AQUATICS, FITNESS, TENNIS, CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS, and QUALITY CUISINE. All programs are presented in attractive surroundings and a comfortable atmosphere, with superior service provided by a highly competent professional staff.
The James Broach Sportsmanship Award is an annual award given since 2013 to the youth tennis player who best exemplifies the ideals of sportsmanship, both on and off the court. The winner of this award is presented with the James Broach plaque, named after the former Briar Club member who lived his life as a great sportsman and tennis player.
The Briar Club
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THE LOFT (AGES 4-6)
Table of
THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
A LETTER FROM THE
Club Manager (713) 622-3667 | MANAGER@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
and six lane, twenty-five meter lap pool are sorely needed and will add to the overall enjoyment of our great club.
OUR MEMBERSHIP DRIVE CONTINUES
RICHARD A. LAREAU, CCM, CCE General Manager/C.O.O. MASTER PLAN PROGRESS SURGES AHEAD
T
he demolition of the north half of our clubhouse is now complete, and we began parking in the Temporary Parking Lot on Monday, December 30, 2013. Members enter the Temporary Parking Lot off of Saint Street, and come into the Club through the gate adjacent to the Gazebo, just outside the Lounge. While we are using this temporary lot, the Pool Gate entrance to the Club off of Timmons Lane will be closed. Construction of our three story, 530-space Parking Garage is scheduled to commence this January. It will be fun and exciting to watch this being constructed. We are working with our contractors and hope to have the garage completed before school is out and swim team begins. Let’s all pray for good weather! We’ll keep you all posted of the progress with our weekly video and photo updates. I have received a lot of feedback that you like these videos. They have been fun to both make and watch! Lastly, construction of the Men’s Locker Room addition and new Lap Pool are scheduled to begin by February, and should be completed by the end of summer. The addition of 90 men’s lockers, a shoe shine room with service for both men and women, a men’s lounge,
2013 was a historic year for membership at The Briar Club. We would like to thank and congratulate all members who contributed by sponsoring a new member. The influx of new members to our club is the life blood that both sustains and revitalizes us. The initiation fee revenue is vital at this time as it is earmarked directly for our Master Plan Project. Our work is not finished; we need two more years of continued success and membership growth to completely fund all aspects of the project. Please continue to act as an active recruiter by reaching out to your family members, friends, neighbors, business associates, and your children’s schoolmates. Invite them for a visit to witness our campus rejuvenation project and share in the everyday fun you enjoy at our Briar Club. Membership information is available on our website, or can be e-mailed to you via our Membership Director, Linda Benson. The slogan Linda Loves Leads still rings true, so call or e-mail her at membership@ thebriarclub.com with your referrals. Linda will contact them on your behalf and set up a play day at Kid’s Club, or a couple’s date night in the Lounge.
FOOD & BEVERAGE INITIATIVES CONTINUE Executive Chef Lance Warren along with his management team of Emmanuel Campos and Trini Carranza in the kitchen and Patrick McMillan, Alex Mancera and Joaquin Ruiz in the dining rooms are all to be commended for their accomplishments in bringing great food and service to the club. The recently updated menus and re-merchandized wine list have received very positive feedback from membership. If you have not dined at the club recently, you are missing out! We’ve also revamped the popular ‘Four for Forty’ menu available Tuesday – Thursday which offers value focused entrees that a family of four can enjoy for just $40. Our Lounge and Grille dining rooms will remain open throughout our construction project until our new clubhouse is complete. All menus are posted on the member side of the club website under Club Information/Dining. Additionally, if you would like to host a small private party or meeting at the Club, the Terrace Room is available for you to reserve. Contact Alex Mancera by calling 713.622.2667 or emailing parties@thebriarclub. com. She will work with you and Chef Lance to customize the menu and service for your event.
TAX AND GRATUITY
Beginning in January 2014, the IRS will begin taxing automatic gratuities on food and beverage sales at private clubs. In order to avoid this additional tax, our club policy of an automatic 18% gratuity on all food and beverage sales has been amended to a policy stating that gratuities are voluntary and should reflect the quality of service delivered during your dining experience. This applies to all a la carte dining areas at the club including the Lounge, Grille and Poolside Grille. Going forward, you will notice that the updated sales ticket will post an 18% gratuity with a space provided underneath for the gratuity to be adjusted, either more or less at the member’s discretion. Additionally, any automatic gratuity will now be labeled as a House Charge. You will see automatic House Charges on all transactions involving banquet, sports bar and snack bar sales. House Charges differ from gratuities as they are incorporated in into the hourly wage of the employees of those departments. Additionally, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and State of Texas have amended the alcoholic beverage tax. Effective January 1, 2014, you will see an alcohol sales tax of 8.25% included on all food and beverage tickets where alcohol is purchased. I am aware these changes and new policies are, at best, confusing. I am happy to explain further via a phone call, e-mail or by a visit to my office; my door is always open. Our food and beverage management team will also be able to assist.
PARDON OUR DUST - HAVE ONE ON US! As an enticement to visit the Club during construction, and as a simple thank you for joining us, two “Pardon our Dust” certificates were mailed to all members at the end of December. These certificates are good for a complimentary appetizer, dessert or beverage of your choice with the order of an entrée in one of the club dining rooms. These may be redeemed at any meal, for either adults or children while our renovation is in progress. We thought this would be a fun way to provide a little reward for your patience in any interruptions to your normal routine. I wish you all a very Happy New Year! I look forward to seeing you all at the Club soon. At your service;
RICHARD A. LAREAU, CCM, CCE THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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A LETTER FROM THE
Club President
Scott Frasier has rolled off the Board of Directors after his three year term of service. Thank you Scott for not only your serving as Chairman of the Master Plan Building Committee, but also for agreeing to serve as Secretary this year, a position that is hard to assign due to the significant amount of extra work that is required. Scott, together with Board of Director member Rob Sigler, championed the Master Plan project to the construction kick-off in November. Thank you Scott for the tremendous amount of time spent in preparing the building plans for the next generation of Briar Club members. With the caliber of excellence set by Scott, I look forward to Rob servicing as Chariman of the Master Plan Building Committee.
TIMOTHY PETERS 2014 Briar Club President FELLOW MEMBERS AND FRIENDS,
H
appy New Year and here's to the start of our construction period leading the great next chapter in the Briar Club's history! I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as your 2014 Briar Club President. As a second generation member of The Briar Club, I remember when there were only two tennis courts, the lap pool was where the parking lot is today and the snack bar was where the Wellness Center was located. Look how the Club has progressed. There are so many exciting happenings in store for our Club, and it is a privilege to be a part of them. The Briar Club has been a special place where my family has enjoyed wonderful experiences for the past years, and we look forward to the new club in the very near future. More on that. This year we will be living through the execution of a fantastic Master Plan that our previous Board of Directors and committees have so thoughtfully crafted. Kim Grant has now completed her term as Ex-Officio. I want to thank Kim for her outstanding contributions and leadership made during her four year tenure as Director, President, and Ex-Officio. Kim was instrumental in getting the Master Plan before the members for the final vote of approval. We will all miss Kim as she returns to enjoy the extra time with her family.
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THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
Mike Caswell has also rolled off the Board of Directors after his three year term of service. We will all miss his enthusiasm, anecdotes and drive to accomplish good things for the Club. Mike had a special place in his heart for both our Youth and Senior members in making sure that their Board heard their voices. Thank you, Mike, for your dedicated service as a Director and your hard work serving as Chairman of the Youth Committee this past year. Howard Cordray has completed his term as President and will now act as Ex-Officio and giving guidance to the Board of Directors for 2014. I wish to thank Howard for his time and efforts serving as our Club's President last year and especially for his friendship and leadership he brought to the Board. I have seen the amount of time that it takes to serve as President of our Club, and Howard spent much time guiding the Board of Directors and the Briar Club Management Team to the closure of the financing of the Master Plan. Lastly, a special thank you goes to Richard Lareau, Eric Ehsan and Casey Newman for their hard work and dedication to running our first class Club operation. Rich and his Team will be extremely busy this year with oversight of the ongoing construction.
NEWSFLASH! THE BRIAR DINING FACILITIES & BAR ARE STILL OPEN! Even though our catering business is on a temporary hiatus, fine dining and the bar are available as normal. Chef Lance and his dining room service team of Patrick McMillan, Alex Mancera and Joaquin Ruiz are dedicated to providing a great experience every time you visit the Club whether it be for an afternoon snack and a beverage, business lunch with a client, an early evening dinner with the kids or a date night dinner with your spouse. Come to the Club to try our updated menu with very affordable pricing the entire family will enjoy. Rich Andrae, together with his fitness and wellness team, have tuned up the fitness center
and are ready to help you stick to your New Year's resolutions. Come try out our six new recumbent and upright bikes all fully loaded with the latest software that puts you in charge of your workout routine. There is also a new Jacob's Ladder that will test the endurance of even the most fit among us. Membership had a fantastic year for 2013. During fiscal year 2013, under the direction of Linda Benson as our club Membership Director, Peter Petkas as Chairman of the Membership Committee, and the many members of our Membership Committee, we experienced significant success in gaining 88 new members, generating over $1.5 million in initiation income. This income is reserved 100% and is strictly targeted for our Master Plan Project. The Club needs two more years of this level of new member recruitment in order to successfully complete all that has been planned. The current initiation fee is $27,000. While Linda Benson is our membership director, her position and responsibility is to follow up on and process the potential members that you, our existing members, send to her. "Linda Loves Leads." The Briar Club does not "sell" memberships but rather new members are invited to join by our existing members. Because of the success of the membership committee last year, Peter will continue as Chairman to work very hard with respect to new member initiations for 2014.
2014 COMMITTEE CHAIRS AND OFFICERS I am particulary pleased with how our Club's committees will be chaired this year. Here is a list of our Club's committees for 2014 and the names of each corresponding chairperson: ROB SIGLER Building/Vice President WILL GARWOOD Swimming/Secretary BOB FRAZIER Finance/Treasurer HOWARD CORDRAY Strategic Planning CRAIG BUNK Tennis PETER PETKAS Membership SHANNON HUFF Youth DAVID MORDY Fitness ROB TRABAND Food & Beverage Our committees should run very well under their direction. Thanks to all of you for all of the work you will put in this year for our Club as you handle your committee chairperson duties. If you are interested in serving this year, Youth, Fitness and Swimming can still use your help. Please contact the Committee Chairs if you are interested. On behalf of the Board of Directors and our General Manager, I want to thank you for placing your trust in us. I assure you that we will continue working hard to serve you. Please let us know of any way that we can help to make this Club your home away from home. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
Membership (713) 552-2159 | LINDA@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
Welcome NEW MEMBERS!
Help us welcome members who joined the Club in October, November and December.
THE BOOTH FAMILY Morgan, Ede, Lawler
Membership
UPDATE
THE BRYANS
William and Caroline
LINDA BENSON Membership Director Happy New Year! I thought I would take this time to answer some frequent questions I receive from members. Q: "Do we have reciprocity with any clubs in and around Houston?
THE ESPINOZA FAMILY
Leo, Sabrina, Brianna, Sophia, Zaden
THE MENEELY FAMILY James, Jennifer, Morgan
A: YES! To view the list of clubs, simply log on to www.thebriarclub. com and click on "Club News", then "Membership Information". Once on the page, scroll down and click "Reciprocal Club Privileges" to view all the clubs. The reciprocal clubs we are affiliated with give you access to the club without having to be a member of their club. Most of the clubs listed allow you to charge back to your home club. Q: "I'm not an Equity member, so I can't sponsor someone for membership... right?"
THE PETERS FAMILY
Les, Beth (McGowan), Erik
THE VOSKO FAMILY
Spencer, Gina, Katie, Caroline, Edward
Membership REWARDS PROGRAM Extended through March 2014!
1. Each time you sponsor a new member, you will receive a $250 non-dues credit on your statement (which applies to everything but club administrative charges). 2. If you sponsor three new members between now and March 2014, you will receive a 50% reduction in your dues for six months. 3. If you sponsor five new members, you will receive a 50% reduction in your dues for 12 months. Any category of membership can sponsor a new member to the Club. If you should have questions about the program, please contact Linda Benson at: membership@thebriarclub.com or (713) 622-3667 ext. 2159.
A: WRONG! All categories of membership can sponsor a new member. With that being said, I have some exciting news! We have decided to extend our Member Rewards program until March 2014! Whether you are just getting started on recruiting members or if you are one new member away from enjoying half-dues, you now have three more months! If you know someone who you think would be a perfect candidate for membership, please feel free to contact me at: (713) 622-3667 ext. 2159 or membership@thebriarclub.com. Don't forget - Linda Loves Leads! I'll see you around the Club. LINDA BENSON THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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Master Plan
The Master Plan is well under way, and The Briar Club's future campus is materializing quickly! We are excited to share the most recent renderings of the new Clubhouse, provided by our architect, Jackson & Ryan, where you can see the new Clubhouse from all angles. Coming soon!
Master Plan
SCHEDULE Phase I JAN 2014 - JULY 2014 Construct New Parking Garage Construct Fitness Center Addition Construct New Lap Pool
Phase II CLUBHOUSE & SKYBRIDGE | West Elevation (View from Timmons)
AUG 2014 - JUN 2015 Construct New 42,000 Sq. Ft. Clubhouse SEP 2014 - MAR 2015 Construct New Kids Club and Teen Center MAR 2015 - JUN 2015 Construct Three New Tennis Courts
CLUBHOUSE | South Elevation (View from Recreational Pool)
Phase III SEP 2015 - APR 2016 Construct New Recreational Pool Construct Barefoot Café (Poolside Dining) Construct Sky Bridge (connecting Parking Garage to the Clubhouse)
CLUBHOUSE | East Elevation (View from New Tennis Courts)
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 I look forward to 2014 as the Club transforms into the facility we have all envisioned. Maintaining strong financial control, continued membership growth, a high level of service and a four-star Food & Beverage program will be fundamental during the construction period as we move towards the next chapter in the Briar Club history. See you around the Club,
CLUBHOUSE | North Elevation (View from Westheimer)
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THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
TIMOTHY PETERS
Manager of MERIT Cesar Escobar joined The Briar Club's maintenance team back in 2003. He has always approached his job with professionalism with a keen sense of "doing it right." In 2012, he was promoted to Property Manager, working closely with me and all the department heads keeping all the clubs mechanical systems and buildings in good working order.
CESAR ESCOBAR PROPERTY MANAGER
He was recently responsible for orchestrating the transition of moving our office to its current location while our new Clubhouse is being constructed. His other duties include managing our laundry services and housekeeping. He's done an exemplary job for the Club and is very worthy of this recognition as Manager of Merit.
Employees
RICHARD A. LAREAU, CCM, CCE GENERAL MANAGER / C.O.O.
Employees of the MONTH OCTOBER - EUSTOLIA "FLO" FLORES Flo grew up in Zacatecas, Mexico, and now lives near Fresno. She has been married for 50 years, and has six children, of whom she is very proud. She has worked for The Briar Club for nine years, as a Locker Room Attendant. Flo's favorite part about working at The Briar Club is the friendliness of the members and the good relationships she enjoys with the members and her co-workers. In her free time, she enjoys old movies and catching up on sleep!
Briar Club Staff
SAFETY UPDATE
In collaboration with ClubSafe, 32 members of the Briar Club staff on the Emergency Response Team (ERT) are working to make The Briar Club as safe as possible for your family and guests. We held our first training meeting in October, where we established a plan to stay prepared and educated to assist in any emergency situation at the Club. In addition, 30 ERT staff members have been certified in CPR/First Aid from American Red Cross, taught by our very own Jon Diller. As we look towards the busy spring/summer season, we remain as committed as ever to the safety of you & your family.
Distinguished Achievement
IN LEADERSHIP
NOVEMBER - JUAN RIVAS Juan grew up in El Salvador and now lives in Southwest Houston. He is married to Alfa Villeda, server at the Club, and they have a 23-month old son named Ethan Leo. Juan works in Receiving, and has worked for the Club for eight years. Juan's favorite part about his job is his flexible schedule, which allows him to spend more time with his son and family. In his free time, Juan enjoys listening to all types of music, fishing, and spending time with family.
DECEMBER - TAKIYAH BENSON Takiyah is a Kids Club attendant/babysitter for the Club, and has worked at the Club for one and a half years. Her favorite thing about working for the Briar Club is taking care of the kids at the Kids Club, Loft and Funtastik Camp. She also enjoys talking to the parents to ensure that they are satisfied with her work. Takiyah is interested in the medical field and is planning to go to medical school soon. In her free time, she enjoys writing short stories and spending time with her beautiful 8-month old daughter A'maya and family.
BOARDROOM MAGAZINE Six Briar Club Department Heads have been awarded the "Distinguished Achievement in Leadership" award by BoardRoom Magazine, one of the most respected trade publications serving private clubs. The following six department heads have been recognized: Richard Andrae, Linda Benson, Gina DePamphilis, Casey Newman, Jan Vick, and Lance Warren. We are very proud of their accomplishments! THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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Club News
Communications
UPDATE
Spring Break HOURS OF OPERATION SPRING BREAK: MONDAY, MARCH 17 - SUNDAY, MARCH 23 FAMILY POOL
KIDS CLUB
Tuesday-Friday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Saturday-Sunday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Monday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm Tuesday-Thursday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 10:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
SNACK BAR
Tuesday-Friday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Saturday-Sunday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm *Starting Saturday, March 8, the Family Pool and Snack Bar will open for weekends only, from 11:00 am 7:00 pm, during the month of March.
THE LOFT
Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 am - 9:00 pm Sunday 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
School Holidays HOURS OF OPERATION JANUARY 20 - MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY The Loft: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Kids Club: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
FEBRUARY 17 - PRESIDENTS DAY The Loft: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Kids Club: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
CONNECT WITH THE CLUB!
Stay up-to-date with happenings at The Briar Club through our social media sites.
@
communications@thebriarclub.com | (713) 622-3667 ext. 2104 www.facebook.com/briarclub.houston www.twitter.com/TheBriarClub
CHLOE TRAMMEL Communications Coordinator Thank you very much for your warm reception during my first seven months at The Briar Club! I am enjoying getting to know you and your families while photographing our club events. During this exciting time of renewal in the Club's history, Casey Newman and I are focused on enhancing the function and design of the Club's communications - including the posters at the Pool Gate, dining menus, our weekly emails, and this quarterly newsletter.a One exciting new feature that I'm excited to share with you is the Briar Club's official Flickr account, which hosts all the photos from recent Club events - including all recent Holiday events! We are now able to deliver these photos to you within 24 hours of the event, so that you may quickly share them with your friends and family! You may find the new home for Briar Club event photos in the following ways: • •
By clicking the "Photos" tab on the Briar Club main website. By entering the URL printed in the "Connect with the Club" section on this page.
Be sure to say hello when you see me walking around the Club with my camera! Also, please feel free to contact me with any suggestions for communications at the Club. I would love to hear from you!
www.youtube.com/BriarClubComm
See you around the Club,
www.flickr.com/gp/briarclub/Xb3EwA/ (EVENT PHOTOS)
CHLOE TRAMMEL
*This is a private link.
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THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014 | RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667
Club Events TEXAS HOLD 'EM TOURNAMENT *
SNOW DAY AT THE CLUB! *
Join us at the Club for a night of fun, food and Texas Hold 'Em!
Come play in the snowflakes on the Lawn, start a "snowball fight" on the Sports Court, and enjoy dinner with friends afterwards.
Thursday, January 23 | 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
PER PERSON $50.00++ Includes dinner, beer & wine, and dealer fees. Buy-in to play for $50, with an additional $50 buy-in option at the break.
Friday, January 24 | 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
PER PERSON $5.00++ All ages. Guests are welcome.
RSVP for all events online at www.thebriarclub.com or 713.622.3667 SPECIAL VALENTINE'S DINNER MENU Friday, February 14 | 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Celebrate a romantic evening with your loved one in the Lounge or Grille. We'll feature a prix-fixe menu paired with wine in addition to our regular a la carte offerings. AMUSE BOUCHE SALAD Arugula, Candied Pecans, Manchego Cheese, Lemon Truffle Vinaigrette LOBSTER Cold Poached, English Pea Salad, Smoked Foie Gras Croquette, Saffron Vanilla Emulsion Wine: Fume Blanc, Ferrari Carano, Sonoma County TENDERLOIN Grilled Certified Angus Beef 6-ounce Filet, Whipped Potatoes, Wild Mushrooms, Market Vegetables, Peppercorn Demi Glace Wine: Meritage, Lyeth, Sonoma County, CA 2009 TRIO OF CHOCOLATE Warm Chocolate Cake, Double Chocolate Terrine, Chocolate Wonton PER PERSON $55.00++ PAIRED WITH WINE: $75.00++ Reservations are limited. Please call to RSVP at (713) 622-3667. * THESE CLUB-SPONSORED EVENTS DO NOT APPLY TOWARDS THE A LA CARTE DINING MINIMUM | THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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Club Events
Wine
UPDATE
PATRICK MCMILLAN A la Carte Dining Manager
SPRING BREAK FAMILY BUFFET & BINGO Wednesday, March 19 | 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Enjoying a "staycation" for Spring Break? Pencil in a fun night at the Club with Family Bingo! ADULTS: $21.00 ++ AGES 11-17: $14.00++ AGES 4-10: $9.00++ AGES 3 & UNDER: $1.00++
I am excited to have become a part of the Briar Club family, and have felt welcomed from both the membership and the staff. I look forward to the growth of the Club and the exciting challenges that are sure to come. In my short time at the Club, we as a Food & Beverage team have been focusing on the education of the service staff to ensure that, during your every visit, we are meeting your expectations and high standards. Over the past several months, the Food & Beverage management team have been participating in wine education, most recently with Master Sommelier Guy Stout. In January, I will be participating in the International Wine Societies workshop in California with instructor Pat Dodd of E&J Gallo Wines. Our goal is to build a wine program at The Briar Club that is geared towards providing the best wines at a great value, an evolving wine list, monthly features, member events and education. We look forward to serving you and your families in the Lounge and the Grille throughout the construction of the new Club.
Wine Lovers SPRING BREAK SPLASH BASH! Sunday, March 23 | 3:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Round out your Spring Break with a poolside party at The Briar Club! Briar Island will make its first appearance of the season, and we'll have activities, a live Mariachi band, and a Tex-Mex dinner buffet for the whole family! ADULTS: $21.00 ++ AGES 11-17: $14.00++ AGES 4-10: $9.00++ AGES 3 & UNDER: $1.00++
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SOCIAL THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 6:30 pm
Join fellow Briar members to explore new wines at each tasting, along with hors d'oeuvres and great camaraderie. PER PERSON: $25.00 ++
THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014 | RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667
Aquatics
(713) 552-2126
SWIM@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
2nd Annual Winter Wonderland
FAMILY SWIM MEET
Swim Year-Round with HCCL SWIM! BEGINNER/BRONZE
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays at 4:00 pm This group will work on stroke technique for Freestyle and Backstroke, as well as diving and endurance training.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
INTERMEDIATE/SILVER Mondays-Thursdays at 4:00 pm
Swimmers should be efficient in Freestyle, Backstroke and Diving. Swimmers in this group will focus on Breaststroke, Butterfly, and endurance training fro all four strokes.
ADVANCED/GOLD (USA SWIM TEAM)
Join us in our heated Family Pool for a swim meet for all ages and an afternoon of family fun! Then warm up after the meet with cookies and hot cocoa!
Monday-Friday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm & Saturdays from 7:00 am - 9:00 am
We hope to see your family at the pool!
*HCCL - Houston Country Club League
Want to be a
Swimmers should be efficient in all four strokes and have the endurance to swim a 200-meter Individual Medley. Swimmers must participate in at least four practices per week and dry land practice.
For additional details and to register, please contact the Aquatics Office: (713) 552-2126 or swim@thebriarclub.com
SWIM COACH?
CLUB BARRACUDAS (NON-COMPETITIVE SWIM WORKOUT) Tuesdays & Thursdays at 5:00 pm | Ages 7 & Up
Swimmers must have had previous swim team experience. Club Barracudas will be held during January - March only.
Polar Bear SWIM CLUB December 1 - February 28
The competition continues! Log your distance in the Lap Pool and win a prize for swimming the most laps in your age division! Open to all members! The log book is located at the Pool Security Gate. All laps logged must be completed at The Briar Club.
Calling all Briar Club Swim Team alumni! Informational meetings for all Briar Club alumni interested in coaching Swim Team this spring and summer will be held on the following dates:
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 7:00 pm
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 9:00 am
RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667 | THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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Fitness
The Benefits of
PILATES
(713) 552-2145 | FITNESS@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
LARRY ZIKES Pilates Coordinator Pilates can really make a difference in your health without taking a toll on your body.
A MIND-BODY WORKOUT SHARE YOUR GOALS ON OUR 2014 NEW YEAR'S GOALS BOARD! Second Floor of the Fitness Center
Of course, we all have a never-ending, constantly-evolving list of yearly goals. Get inspired and post them up on our wall! You can post quotes, photos, or other meaningful thoughts. Once you reach a goal, post a new one!
By emplasizing proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and concentration on smooth, flowing movement, you become acutely in tune with your body. You actually learn how to control its movement.
DEVELOP A STRONG CORE
Pilates exercises develop a strong "core" or center of the body. The core consists of the deep abdominal muscles along with the muscles closest to the spine. Control of the core is achieved by integrating the trunk, pelvis, and shoulder girdle.
GAIN LONG, LEAN MUSCLES & FLEXIBILITY
More conventional or traditional workouts are weight-bearing and tend to build short, bulky muscles the type most prove to injury. Pilates elongates and strengthens, improving muscle elasiticy and joint mobility. A body with balanced strength and flexibility is least likely to be injured.
TRY IT! CHALLENGE: BURN 10,000 CALORIES IN JANUARY Thursday, January 2 - Saturday, February 1
How many calories can you burn during the month of January? 5,000, 8,000, 10,000, or even more? See how many you can burn in 30 days with this challenge! Start a log sheet in the Fitness center and begin your race to the Wall of Fame! Check in with Nicole Graham, our dietician, throughout the contest!
New to Pilates and unsure about how to get started? Visit one of our Professional Pilates instructors and schedule your first appointment in the Briar Club Pilates Studio. PRIVATE SESSION: $70 DUO SESSION: $50 TRIO SESSION: $42 GROUP CLASS (4+): $36 GROUP EX MAT PILATES: $30 per month for unlimited classes. (713) 552-2125 pilates@thebriarclub.com
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THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014 | RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667
Fitness
(713) 552-2145 | FITNESS@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
WINTER CHALLENGE: LEG PRESSES February 10-16
Stay Motivated MONDAYS
How many leg presses can you do in two minutes? You have seven days to reach your goal, increasing the weight with each session. What's your max?
STARTS JANUARY 6, 2014
Start your week with accountability and action by receiving our new monthly workouts on Mondays, beginning January 6th.
SUNRISE YOGA
Sunday, March 9| 7:00 am Come enjoy the early morning sunrise as you practice yoga on the Briar Club Lawn. PER PERSON: $10.00 Includes "sunrise cocktails", light breakfast & yoga class.
This is a great way to stay on track and always have a checkpoint. To submit your email, visit the Fitness Desk or: (713) 552-2145 groupex@thebriarclub.com
RSVP for all events online at www.thebriarclub.com or 713.622.3667
10-Day Bikini BOOT March 3-14
CAMP
Get ready for Spring Break! Registration includes ten (10) 45-minute boot camp-style workouts, a meal plan by Briar Club dietician Nicole Graham, and BMI Testing by Rich Andrae. SESSION: $125.00 To register for Bikini Boot Camp, call the Fitness Desk at (713) 552-2145 or register online at www.thebriarclub.com.
RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667 | THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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Tennis
(713) 552-2121 | TENNIS@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
JUNIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all who participated!
Mens/Ladies CLUB
CHAMPIONSHIPS JANUARY 31| Mens/Ladies Doubles FEB 28 - MARCH 1| Mixed Doubles MARCH 28-30 |Mens/Ladies Singles Register in the Briar Shop or via email to: tennis@thebriarclub.com.
Valentines Day
MIXED DOUBLES Friday, February 14 | 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm 10S DIVISION: WINNERS Eva Wolfe & Will Lewis
12S DIVISION: WINNERS Ryan Wood & Sophie Bowers
Grab your sweetheart and hit the courts for tennis, drinks and Valentine's treats! PER PERSON: $30++
Parent & Child
FUN DOUBLES
Saturday, March 8 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Partner up with your son or daughter in this fun doubles event!
14S DIVISION: WINNERS Rachel Boeker (pictured) & Andrew Sall
16S DIVISION: WINNERS Magnum Fyhr & Grayson Christ
PER PERSON: $25++ Register in the Briar Shop or via email to: tennis@thebriarclub.com.
2014 Spring JUNIOR TENNIS PROGRAM Keep your children active during the spring months by enrollling them in our Junior Tennis Program! Our tennis pros will give skill-building lessons in small groups to children of all skill levels. The Briar Club's "Children Under 12" policy applies. Parents must remain on premises during lessons.
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TIER 1 (AGES 3-8) 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm $17.50 per 60-minute session TIER 2 (AGES 9+) 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm $26 per 90-minute session TIER 1: $17.50++ per session TIER 2: $26.00++ per session NON-MEMBERS: Add $5.41
THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014 | RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667
Kids Club MOVIE NIGHTS Enjoy a movie, dinner and treats every month with your Kids Club friends! $15 per person
THEMED THURSDAYS
This is not a drop-off event. Parents must remain on campus. Parents must sign a permission slip when a PG movie is shown.
FEBRUARY
(713) 552-2130 YOUTH@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
Kids Club
6:30 PM - Sign In | 7:00 PM - Movie Begins | 8:45 PM - Move Ends
JANUARY
Youth
MARCH
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Join us one Thursday per month for special Kids Club crafts! JANUARY 16| New Year's Music! Join us to make your own musical instrument! FEBRUARY 13 | Valentines! Come make a special valentine for your loved ones.
Friday, January 10 "Monsters University" (G)
Friday, February 14 "Turbo" (PG)
Friday, March 7 "Smurfs 2" (PG)
MARCH 13 |St. Patrick's Day! Make your very own Lucky Charm. Don't get caught without it! $10 per child, per hour. Normal Kids Club menu is available from which to order.
LOFT SOCIAL Ages 7-12 | 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Field Day!
PARENT'S NIGHT OUT! Saturday, March 8 | 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Let us entertain the kids while you enjoy dinner at the Club or a night on the town! We've planned a fun "field day" full of races, relays, activities, and more! PER PERSON $15.00++ This is a drop-off event. Parents must fill out a liability waiver prior to the event. Waivers located on the Briar Club website at www.thebriarclub.com.
Earn prizes and rack up those Loft 360 points as you enjoy friendly competition with friends and complimentary dinner!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 FRIDAY, MARCH 7 PER PERSON $10.00++ The Loft will be closed to all non-participants during Loft Socials.
RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667 | THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014
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Youth
Kids Club FEATURED ARTISTS
(713) 552-2130 YOUTH@THEBRIARCLUB.COM
CELLI BARNETT
EMMI BAILEY
HOLLYN BOGART
Kids Club DEALS! January, February and March
Come in and enjoy a nice relaxing dinner in the Lounge or Grille, and we will babysit in the Kids Club at discounted rates! Just bring back your receipt to receive your discount.
FREE SERVICE on Wednesday Nights HALF-PRICE SERVICE on Saturday Nights Please remember to make a reservation to help us accommodate your babysitting needs.
Spring Break FUNTASTIK CAMP Keep the kids busy during Spring Break with day camp at the Club! We'll have sports, races, obstacle courses, arts & crafts, and more!
MONDAY, MARCH 17 - FRIDAY, MARCH 21 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Ages 5-12 Well-balanced lunch and snacks provided. Camp Attire: Active wear and tennis shoes. MEMBERS: $220 per child or $50 per day NON-MEMBERS: $275 per child or $60 per day *Non-members must attend with a member. This is a drop-off event. Parents must fill out a registration form and liability waiver prior to children attending camp. Registration forms and waivers located in the Kids Club or on the Briar Club website at www.thebriarclub.com.
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THE BRIAR CLUB • JAN-MAR 2014 | RSVP FOR ALL EVENTS ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM OR BY PHONE AT 713.622.3667
Monday
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A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
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A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
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A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
5
A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
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20
13
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How many calories can you burn during the month of January? 5,000, 8,000, 10,000, or even more? Start a log sheet in the Fitness Center and begin your race to the Wall of Fame!
BURN 10,000 C ALORIES IN JANUARY December 1 - February 28
Sunday
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Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
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Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
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Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
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Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
1
ALL FACILITIES CLOSED Happy New Year!
Wednesday
21
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
14
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
7
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
Tuesday
24
Snow Day at the Club! 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
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10
Kids Club Movie Night "Monsters University" 6:30 pm - 8:45 pm
Loft Social 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
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Friday
30
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
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Club Championships - Mens/Ladies Doubles
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Texas Hold 'Em Tournament 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
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Kids Club Theme Night 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
9
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
2
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
Thursday
25
Winter Wonderland Family Swim Meet 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
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Youth Birthday Party 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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4
Saturday
January
23
A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
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Winter Fitness Challenge ENDS!
A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
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A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
2
A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Sunday
24
17
10
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
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19
18 25
Prospective Briar Barracudas Swim Coach Meeting 7:00 pm
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Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
5
Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
11
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
4
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
27
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
20
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
Wine Lovers Social 6:30 pm
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Kids Club Theme Night 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
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Prix Fixe Dining Specials
Please remember to make a reservation to help us accommodate your babysitting needs.
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Club Championships Mixed Doubles
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Valentine's Doubles Mixer 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
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Valentine's Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Kids Club Movie Night “Turbo” - 6:30 pm
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Come in and enjoy a nice relaxing dinner in the Lounge or Grille, and we will babysit in the Kids Club for FREE on Wednesday nights and at half-price on Saturday nights! Just bring back your receipt to receive your discount.
FREE WEDNESDAY NIGHTS & 1/2 PRICE SATURDAY NIGHTS | January - March 2014
Winter Fitness Challenge BEGINS!
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Monday
22
Prospective Briar Barracudas Swim Coach Meeting 9:00 am
15
Youth Birthday Party 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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1
Saturday
February
Sunrise Yoga 7:00 am
30
Spring Break Splash Bash 3:00 pm 7:30 pm
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A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
9
A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
2
A la Carte Brunch 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Sunday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
17 24
10
12
Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
5
Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
13
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
Kids Club Theme Night 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
6
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
14
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Tex-Mex Dining Specials
18
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
26
Wednesday Night Rendezvous 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
19
Spring Break Family Buffet & Bingo 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
27
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
20
Prix Fixe Dining Specials
10 Day Bikini Boot Camp ENDS!
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29
Club Championships - Mens/Ladies Singles
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15
Youth Birthday Party 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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Parent's Night Out 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Kids Club Movie Night "Smurfs 2" 6:30 pm - 8:45 pm
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Parent/Child Fun Doubles 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
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Saturday
Loft Social 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Spring Break Funtastik Camp! 8:30 am - 3:30 pm | $50 per day, $220 for entire week
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Tex-Mex Dining Specials
4
Tex-Mex Dining Specials
This is a drop-off event. Parents must fill out a registration form and liability waiver prior to children attending camp. Registration forms and waivers located in the Kids Club or on the Briar Club website at www.thebriarclub.com.
MEMBERS: $220 per child or $50 per day | NON-MEMBERS: $275 per child or $60 per day
Keep the kids busy during Spring Break with day camp at the Club! We'll have sports, obstacle courses, arts & crafts, and more!
10 Day Bikini Boot Camp BEGINS!
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Tuesday
SPRING BRE AK FUNTA STIK C AMP | March 17 - 21
Monday
March
Where families focus on fun! THE BRIAR CLUB
2603 TIMMONS LANE HOUSTON, TX 77027
Board of Directors TIMOTHY PETERS, PRESIDENT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
ROB SIGLER, VICE PRESIDENT BUILDING COMMITTEE
WILL GARWOOD, SECRETARY SWIM COMMITTEE
BOB FRAZIER, TREASURER FINANCE COMMITTEE
HOWARD CORDRAY, EX-OFFICIO STRATEGIC PLANNING
CRAIG BUNK TENNIS COMMITTEE
SHANNON HUFF YOUTH COMMITTEE
At A Glance TEXAS HOLD'EM TOURNAMENT
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23 | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
SNOW DAY AT THE CLUB!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
VALENTINES DINNER FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 | 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM
PARENTS NIGHT OUT SATURDAY, MARCH 8 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
SPRING BREAK BUFFET & BINGO WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19 | 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
DAVID MORDY FITNESS COMMITTEE
PETER PETKAS MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
ROB TRABAND ENTERTAINMENT/F&B COMMITTEE
REID WILSON HOUSE/LEGAL COMMITTEE
SPRING BREAK SPLASH BLAST SUNDAY, MARCH 23 | 3:00 PM - 7:30 PM