THE BRIAR CLUB NEWSLETTER Fourth Quarter 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS MANAGER’S LETTER
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PRESIDENT’S LETTER
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MEMBERSHIP NEWS
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EMPLOYEE NEWS
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SPOTLIGHT ON CATERING
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CLUB EVENTS
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DEPARTMENT EVENTS & NEWS YOUTH
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AQUATICS
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TENNIS
18
FITNESS
20
EVENT CALENDAR
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THE BRIAR CLUB MISSION STATEMENT The Briar Club is a private 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 service provided by a highly-qualified, professional staff.
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HOURS OF OPERATION FALL / WINTER 2016 Office Hours
Fitness Center
Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm (713) 622-3667
Monday - Friday 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 6:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
Family Resort Pool Saturday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
The Family Pool will close for the season on Monday, October 24th.
Adult & Competition Lap Pool Monday - Friday 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 6:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
Barracuda Café Sunrise Menu Tuesday - Saturday 5:30 am - 10:30 am Lunch Saturday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Barracuda Café Lunch Service will close for the season on Monday, October 24th.
Tennis Courts Monday - Friday 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 6:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
The 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
Breezes Monday 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Tuesday - Friday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Saturday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday Closed
The Kids Club
Monday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Tuesday - Thursday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday - Saturday 8:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
The Hideout Tuesday - Thursday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Friday 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Nursery Monday 8:30 am - 12:00 pm Tuesday - Thursday 8:30 am - 12:00 pm Friday - Saturday 8:30 am - 12:00 pm 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Sunday 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
The End Zone Tuesday - Friday 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Lounge Bar
Lunch Tuesday - Friday, Sunday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Dinner Tuesday - Thursday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Friday - Saturday 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Lounge Dining
Lunch Tuesday - Friday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Dinner Tuesday - Thursday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Friday - Saturday 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
BC Bistro
Lunch Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Dinner Tuesday - Thursday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Friday - Saturday 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Brunch Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Brunch is available in either the BC Bistro or The Lounge Bar.
DINING RESERVATIONS Reservations for our dining rooms can be made by calling our friendly receptionists at (713) 622-3667, emailing to reservations@thebriarclub.com or online through your member account. The Dining Reservations page is located under the Dining tab on the website menu.
A LETTER FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER Daniel Moreno, Briar Club General Manager/COO Briar Club Family, It’s hard to believe we are already at the end of the 2016 year! This year has flown by and what a list of milestones the Club has achieved.
BRIAR CLUB SCHOLARSHIP FUND I want to send a very warm thank you on behalf of the staff to the Scholarship Committee. The Scholarship Committee led by co-chairs Chris and Cookie Boeker went above and beyond with helping the Club establish its first scholarship fund for The Briar Club employees. The Committee arranged a very successful event in which New York Times best-selling author Brené Brown spoke. The event raised in excess of $70,000. An incredible start for a fabulous cause! I know this will play an important part in many of our employee’s lives going forward.
FALL FESTIVAL RETURNS IN STYLE Thank you to the 250 plus members that attended the Fall Festival here at The Briar Club. Many enjoyed live music, great food and entertainment on the new lawn between the clubhouse and new tennis courts. The lights and activities created a wonderful atmosphere for the perfect night! A very special thank you to Casey, Sam, Gina and all the staff that worked tirelessly to make this event successful this year. We were even able to enjoy a flyover by two fighter jets, a blimp and a full moon!
SECURITY In the world we live in today it makes our jobs as Club Managers even more important in providing a secure environment for our members. That being said, we have made a change in our security operations. Security has to be one of our number one priorities going forward. We have hired Frank Hertz and Richard Reyna as our new head security officers here at The Briar Club. Both are recently retired HPD officers and have the knowledge and abilities to help keep our facilities secure. You will see them both around the campus on a daily basis. We have also boosted our security in the parking garage as well. We will have an officer patrolling the parking garage on a daily basis in the club security cart. Cynthia, Richard and Frank will play an integral part in keeping our campus safe going forward.
EARLY RISERS We are excited to announce that the Barracuda Café will offer breakfast service for our early risers. Beginning Tuesday, October 25, stop by and have a fresh cup of Briar Club Blend coffee, a healthy smoothie, cold pressed juice or even a breakfast taco. The Barracuda Café is open Tuesday through Saturday, 5:30 am till 10:30 am. This will provide easy grab and go options before you head out for your busy day.
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PRIVATE EVENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS If you haven’t had a chance to meet our new Catering Director please stop by and say hello. Amanda Hough joined our team in August and has already made a huge impact on our business for 2017. Our events calendar is looking stronger and stronger. If you are looking for a location for an event in 2017, let our professional staff help you. If you have a lead for an event, also let us know, we would be happy to reach out. Elegant banquet facilities are hard to find in Houston and with our new ballroom we rank among the top. Secondly, I would like to welcome our new Communications Manager, Mallory Collins. Mallory joined the team back in August and has already played a huge part with enhancing our communications between departments and to the membership.
CONSTRUCTION The words you have all been waiting to hear…. Construction is almost finished. The opening of the Sky Bridge completes the final part of phase 3. In order to access the sky bridge, please park on level 3 of the parking garage and walk right across. You will continue to see construction workers here and there completing punch list items but soon that will all phase out. Again, we appreciate all of your patience during this project.
CLUB FUTURE The Club’s future is incredibly bright! This club should be your second home, it should be the place where we know your name, it should be a place where we remember your favorite orders, it should be a place that you are proud to show off to your friends and family. Our goal is to make sure The Briar Club stands above the rest and provides an atmosphere that exceeds your expectations. I am proud to be your General Manager and if there is ever anything I can do to make your club experience better, please feel free to reach out.
Yours in service, Daniel Moreno General Manager/COO The Briar Club manager@thebriarclub.com
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A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Will Garwood, Briar Club President Fall is finally upon us, a much anticipated time of year in Houston. A new school year, football weekends, cooler weather and the holiday season. It is a great time of year at The Briar Club, especially exciting this year since we finally have our renovated campus to fully utilize and enjoy. Activity around the Club is picking up pace. Our fall season has already kicked off in a big way with the tremendous success of the inaugural Employee Scholarship Fund dinner. We were treated to an inspiring talk from Dr. Brené Brown, New York Times bestselling author, motivational speaker of world renown, and fellow Club member. The event raised almost $70,000 for the Scholarship Fund which will help provide tuition scholarships to Briar Club employees and their families. Thank you to all our members who have supported the Employee Scholarship Fund (ESF), and in particular to Chris and Cookie Boeker for their leadership in this endeavor. We are blessed to have an exceptional staff at The Briar Club. In many ways everything that we enjoy at The Briar Club is made possible by our dedicated staff under the leadership of our General Manager, Daniel Moreno. As much as anything, being President of The Briar Club has provided the opportunity to witness up close the remarkable commitment, effort and devotion to the Club and its members of our employees. They take a lot of pride in what they do at The Briar Club. We have almost 120 employees working at The Briar Club and I cannot think of a better way to say thank you and to give something back. The ESF makes us a stronger Club and a better family. Other October happenings included the “Oktoberfest” tennis Pro Am tournament and party, with no shortage of German beer and bratwurst, and the Fall Festival under a full moon with activities for the whole family. Both events were a rousing
success, first class in every way, and highlighted our new green space and lounge veranda as a delightful seasonal gathering place. Congratulations to the Clubhouse Manager, Casey Newman, Sam, Linda and of course to Executive Chef, Michael Powell and his staff for two really wonderfully planned and executed events. And finally upcoming Briar Club Fall and Holiday Events that you may want to mark on your calendar include: - Winemaker Dinners, where in an intimate setting, members may relax and enjoy the best in wine paired with Chef Michael’s culinary creations. These quality events have proven immensely successful and offer the highest level dining experience. - Boo Bash Family Halloween Party on October 30th from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm. - Thanksgiving at the Club from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. - Inaugural Presentation Ball for Briar Club member daughters and granddaughters who are either juniors or seniors in College on December 22nd at 6:00 pm.
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW AND OUTLOOK In my last letter, I discussed our financial picture and would like to follow up with you as the Fiscal 2017 budgeting process is now essentially complete. Over the past two months management, the Finance Committee, and the Board have all participated in a thorough review of our finances and operations. Fiscal 2017 represents the first operational budget of the new Briar Club. The result of this process is a lot of confidence in the core operational strengths of the Club and its enhanced resources. The Board is, never the less, taking a disciplined approach to spending in 2017, and will let operational success be the determinant of new capital spending. Priorities identified by the Board and General Manager, once financial prerequisites are met, include new kids playground equipment, a Party Pavilion for kids birthday parties and other events, a Café Pavilion off the Barracuda Café snack bar and also more shade structures to enhance our outdoor campus. The two key variables to our financial outlook are the Catering and Events business and new membership. Catering and Events is six to12 months behind schedule due to construction delays with the Clubhouse and Family Pool. The 5
good news is that this department is growing rapidly and our Events business has already demonstrated its revenue potential and profitability. Membership remains strong and has exceeded plan despite a subdued local economy, significant construction activity in the center of our campus, and no family pool until the July 4th weekend. With campus construction finally behind us, the Club had a strong finish to its fiscal year ending September 30th, 2016. September was a record month in Food & Beverage as the Club reached almost $350,000 in sales. Catering and Events had by far its best month, accounting for half of F&B revenue. Our new Catering Director, Amanda Hough, has hit the ground running and energized the catering program. Amanda’s energy and enthusiasm is infectious but she also brings the experience and skill set of a real pro. She is very well connected with local wedding planners and in the special events trade, a valuable commodity to a still-developing new venue. It may take a 12 -18 month runway to reach our full potential, but we now have an all-star team in place with General Manager Daniel Moreno , Clubhouse Manager Casey Newman and Amanda to take us to the highest level. I have no doubt that given our prime location and beautiful state of the art facilities we will be a destination of choice for weddings, charity galas and special gatherings and events of all stripes. With the potential to contribute almost $2 million to our operating profits annually, this is a game changer. Membership remains a source of strength and is off to a good start in the new fiscal year. We finished 2016 with close to $2 million in initiation fee income, and we should do as well or better in 2017. Over the past four years almost 360 new members have joined The Briar Club. This is a ringing endorsement of the master plan vision, our new campus facilities, and the value that a Briar Club membership represents to families in our community. It does not hurt that Linda Benson, our Director of Membership for over five years now, is the best in the business.
ASK NOT WHAT YOUR CLUB CAN DO FOR YOU... Membership and Events are two areas where members can directly help their Club and help themselves. Both membership and events rely heavily on word of mouth and are referral driven. Linda and Amanda are amazing, but we can still give them a hand. Members all have a stake in the Club, and the ability to positively impact its future. One wedding, rehearsal dinner, charity gala, business group luncheon, or special dinner event leads to another and ripples outward. We may have best in class resources and beautiful new campus facilities but we 6
need to get the word out to our friends, neighbors and business associates. The same applies to membership. We remain something of an undiscovered gem despite our unique location.
BRIDGE YEAR TO THE NEW BRIAR CLUB MODEL The operating model for the new Briar Club is one of a lower long term member dues structure and enhanced member experience and services supported by our outside Catering & Events business. New membership provides crucial support to our balance sheet and financial resources as we pay down the debt associated with our $33 million Master Plan project. In fact, new membership income should continue to exceed the yearly cost of payment on our Master Plan loan (principal and interest of $1,750,000 annually or $145,000 per month) and short term credit lines. Fiscal 2017 represents a bridge year to the new Briar Club operating model. Management and the Board have taken steps to properly gear the Club’s cost structure and operation through this transition period. Our new facilities carry higher maintenance and operating costs (i.e. more lifeguards, larger F&B operation etc.). To some extent those costs may have been underestimated, but recent experience operating the new Club campus and indepth budgeting process have provided operational confidence. Management took a fresh look at everything the Club does and made a rigorous evaluation of activities from the ground up. The Board has decided to increase member dues by $20 per month or 4.65%, beginning January 2017. At the same time, management has taken measures to restructure certain operations and reduce expenses. Many of the measures being taken should actually benefit the Club and membership. An example is moving Club Security “in house” rather than outsourcing security services. The result should be enhanced security and better member service at a lower cost to the Club. Despite strong momentum in Membership and Banquet services, the Board believes a dues increase is a necessary part of a balanced approach to preserving financial flexibility and the ability to respond to unexpected change.
COUNTRY CLUB ECONOMICS: INSIDE BASEBALL Something not all members may appreciate is the unique nature of private Country Club economics. For instance, the resources and investment in our Family Pool and Campus Aquatics, and in the Kids Club program is significant. In
a sense, these core member benefits are subsidized by the Club overall and not fully reflected in our fee structure. A la carte dining is an area where even in the best of times and with the best of management; a private country club will struggle to simply break even. One budget casualty you may have already noticed is the complimentary fruit and nuts in the locker rooms. We started to provide fruit and nuts after the old Clubhouse was torn down to help get through a difficult stretch until the new Clubhouse was ready. They were a great convenience but ended up coming at a cost of $70,000 per year. The $70,000 saved here gives the Club the funds needed to move forward sooner with the purchase of new kids playground equipment. The Board felt like this was a higher priority and pretty easy decision to make. Look for a modified version of fruit and healthy snack mix to return in the Locker Rooms in the future. We are also happy to announce that a Sunrise Menu will be starting at the Barracuda cafĂŠ this fall. This menu will consist of easy on the go breakfast and smoothie options. If we step back and look at the recent history of the Briar Club since when the new Fitness Center opened in 2005, dues have seen an average annual increase of about 4.5%. Over the same period, Initiation Fees have risen by an average of 9%. This reflects the growing value of membership at our Club. Moreover, if we compare the new Briar Club and our resources to the competition, we are at the low end of the range in terms of member dues. We want to stay there. Even with a $20 monthly increase we remain well below comparable private country clubs and our facilities are now best in class. I cannot end this discussion of our finances without recognizing the contribution of our great CFO, Eric Ehsan. Eric has been invaluable financial advisory and always reliable guide to the Club, Management, and the Board for more than a decade. He is the constant in a sea of change. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and outstanding CFO. CONCLUSION Thank you all of you for your support. I hope to see many of you at the annual meeting on November 17. My best wishes for a wonderful and blessed holiday season for you and your families.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO THE BRIAR CLUB’S
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016 THE BRIAR CLUB MAGNOLIA BALLROOM Be a part of Briar Club history this December at the Inaugural Presentation Ball as your fellow members, family and friends are presented to the community. If you are interested in attending this event, please register online through our website, TheBriarClub.com, or contact Assistant Clubhouse Manager, Samantha Van Veen at Samantha@TheBriarClub.com.
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LIN DA LOVES LEADS!
MEMBERSHIP NEWS
REFER YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO CLUB MEMBERSHIP
WELCOME OUR NEW MEMBERS! We have had another fantastic summer at the Club. Thank you to all current and new members, we hope you’ve enjoyed your first summer in our new facilities. I cannot believe this is the last newsletter for 2016. This means Fall has arrived! I have to say I’m excited about this time of year and I am looking forward to seeing the Clubhouse decorated for the holiday season.
Our Director of Membership, Linda Benson, loves membership leads! Feel free to send a name of a friend or family member to Linda at (713) 5522159 or by email to membership@ thebriarclub.com.
Membership continues to grow, so I thank each and every one of you for your referrals and support. Please let me know if you have a friend, family member or colleague interested in the club. I can be reached in the office at 713-622-3667 ext. 2159 or membership@thebriarclub.com I’ll see you around the club!
W E LC OME , LIT T LE ON E ! BRIA R BA BIE S
Carly Klupchak Daughter of Melissa & Max Klupchak Welcome to the Briar Club Family, Carly!
MEM BE RS : J U L Y - SE P T E M B E R 2 0 1 6
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Camila and James Barnes Anthony and Zoe Buzbee
Howard and Phyllis Epps
Zoe Tompson
Everett and Barbara Buck Jonathan and Susan Dison
Justin and Emily Leitch
Giles Vick III
Reginald Beaven III
Leigh and Douglas Lionberger Kimberly and Scott Wexler
Byron and Rebecca Douglass
Linda Benson (713) 552-2159 membership@thebriarclub.com
I N MEMO RI AM Nancy Cunningham Member Since 1957
SAF E TY COMMITTE E SP OTLIGHT
EMPLOYEE NEWS L EAD ER S H I P A WA RDS
Only awarded four times a year, the Leadership Award acknowledges employees who go above and beyond to demonstrate exemplary leadership skills within their department and across the entire club.
FALL 2016:
SUMMER 2016:
Youth Coordinator Briar Club Employee for 2 1/2 years
Catering & Special Events Manager Briar Club Employee for 8 years
DINORA ROMERO
The Briar Club Safety Committee is represented by each department and meets on a monthly basis to make sure the club has a safe environment for both employees and members.
WELCOME N EW MAN AGERS! Please help us welcome two fabulous new additions to the Briar Club team. We are confident Amanda and Mallory will help take their departments to the next level!
ALEX MANCERA
Tennis: Mike Alcott, Fitness: Stephanie Kampf, Maintenance: Cesar Escobar, Youth: Gina DePamphilis, Human Resources: Daniela Rivera, Front Desk: Pat Escoffery, Aquatics: Jon DIller, Security: Frank Kurtz and Richard Reyna
MA L L O R Y C O L L I N S Marketing & Communications Manager communications@thebriarclub.com
E M P L OYEES O F T HE M O N T H
Each month, The Briar Club recognizes club employees who have gone the extra mile to help create the WOW experience our members deserve. We are proud of our employees and thank them for their hard work and dedication!
AMAN DA HO U GH JULY:
AUGUST:
SEPTEMBER:
Food & Beverage Expeditor Briar Club Employee for 15 years
Fitness Desk Briar Club Employee for 8 years
Food & Beverage Server Briar Club Employee for 6 years
PASCUAL CHUC
OSCAR LAZCANO
ALFA VILLEDA
Director of Catering & Special Events cateringdirector@thebriarclub.com
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SPOTLIGHT ON CATERING
PLAN YOU R H OLI DAY E V E N T A T THE C L UB ! L U N C H EO NS, BUSINE SS M E E TIN GS, SPE CI AL E V E N T S AN D M OR E
WINE ROOM
PRESIDENT’S ROOM
AZALEA ROOM
MAGNOLIA BALLROOM
Located right off The Lounge Dining area, the wine room is ideal for private meetings and functions.
The President’s Room is popular for small to medium business meetings, receptions, or private luncheons and dinners.
The Azalea Room is the perfect setting for a corporate meeting by day, and celebratory dinner by night.
The Club’s largest and most versatile banquet space can be easily divided into two or three smaller spaces, each accommodating at least 80 guests.
UP TO 16 GUESTS
UP TO 40 GUESTS
UP TO 90 GUESTS
80 - 400 GUESTS
It’s also never too early to begin planning for your 2017 spring, summer and winter events! We encourage you to be one of the first to hold an event in our brand new Clubhouse! For packages, pricing, room information and availability, please contact Amanda Hough, Director of Catering & Special Events, at cateringdirector@thebriarclub.com or (713) 552-2155. Bookings & Deposit Information Reservations for a Briar Club Member’s party may be made at their leisure. Reservations for non-member events may book up to 15 months in advance of the event date. Events will be considered confirmed upon the receipt of the room reservation agreement and a non-refundable deposit. Additional deposits may be required prior to event date. All deposits will be applied as credit toward the total cost of the event. The cancellation policy applies. Each room may be subject to a room minimum or subsequent surcharge to reach room minimum. 10
SPOTLIGHT ON CATERING
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CLUB EVENTS
M EET T H E CANDI DATES WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Enjoy the opportunity to learn more about your Board of Director Candidates with a meet and greet cocktail hour in the Lounge.
Wednesday, November 2, 2016 6:00 - 7:30 pm AGES: 21 & up PRICING: This is a complimentary event LOCATION: The Lounge
B RI AR B OO BAS H
OLD MC BR IAR FAR M
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12
Bring your whole family and enjoy a spooky afternoon with your Briar Club friends. See The Briar Club transform into the ultimate Halloween experience with activities for children of all ages, a haunted house, bingo and much more.
Sunday, October 30, 2016 4:00 - 6:00 pm AGES: All Ages & Family PRICING: Adults: $24.00 Ages 3-12: $16.00 Ages 2 & Under: $6.00 LOCATION: The Clubhouse - 2nd Floor
Experience farm animals and activities like never before through our Old McBriar Farm. Meet and feed friendly farm animals and learn about what it’s like to live on a farm.
Saturday, November 12, 2016 2:00 - 4:00 pm AGES: All Ages & Family PRICING: $15.00 per child LOCATION: Green lawn outside Kids Club
R A L LY T H E F A M I LY ! Some events are not drop-off events. Parents must remain on-campus for the duration of the time that their children under 12 remain at The Briar Club. 12
CLUB EVENTS
AN N UA L M EE T I N G THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Gather with fellow members in the Magnolia Ballroom to meet the newly-elected Board of Director Members, stay abreast on the state of your Club, and hear an update on the Completion of the Master Plan project! After the Meeting, join us for complimentary light hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Business casual attire. All Members are encouraged to attend!
Thursday, November 17, 2016 7:00 pm PRICING: This is a complimentary event LOCATION: The Ballroom
T H A NK S G I V I NG A T T H E C LU B
BRIAR DIN N E R & MAGIC SHO W
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26
Bring the whole family to the club for Thanksgiving! Let us do the cooking, cleaning and serving while you relax and enjoy the extensive buffet offerings.
New to The Briar Club! Enjoy a night of magic and more with dinner and a magic show. Dinner will be served at 6:00 pm with dessert following and the Show starts at 7:00 pm.
Thursday, November 24, 2016 Seatings From 11:00 am - 2:00 pm AGES: All Ages & Family PRICING: Adults: $32.00 Ages 13-18: $20.00 Ages 4-12: $14.00 Ages 3 & Under: $1.00 LOCATION: The Clubhouse - 2nd Floor
Saturday, November 26, 2016 6:00 - 8:00 pm AGES: 4 & Up PRICING: $30.00 Adults | $15 (4 - 18 years) LOCATION: The Magnolia Ballroom
R A L LY T H E F A M I LY ! Some events are not drop-off events. Parents must remain on-campus for the duration of the time that their children under 12 remain at The Briar Club. 13
CLUB EVENTS
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10
POLAR EXPRESS
NEW YEARS BINGO PARTY
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31
Join us for The Briar Club tradition of Breakfast with Santa including fun activities and a chance to get your photo taken with the man himself!
Movie night with a twist! Dinner, games and cookie decorating. Then enjoy Polar Express on the big screen projector - all in your pajamas!
Ring in the new year with Bingo, friends, food and much more. Don’t miss the celebratory balloon drop!
Saturday, December 10, 2016 9:00 - 11:00 am
Friday, December 23, 2016 5:30 - 6:30 pm: Dinner Buffet, Games,
AGES: All Ages & Family PRICING: Adults: $22.00 Ages 4-12: $15.00 Ages 3 & Under: $6.00 LOCATION: The Magnolia Ballroom
R A L LY T H E F A M I LY !
Gingerbread Cookie Decorating 6:30 - 9:00 pm: Polar Express Movie
AGES: All Ages & Family PRICING: Adults: $25.00 Ages 3-12: $15.00 Ages 2 & Under: $1.00 LOCATION: The Clubhouse - 2nd Floor
Saturday, December 31, 2016 6:00 - 8:30 pm AGES: All Ages & Family PRICING: Adults: $28.00 Ages 4-12: $15.00 Ages 3 & Under: $1.00 LOCATION: The Magnolia Ballroom
Some events are not drop-off events. Parents must remain on-campus for the duration of the time that their children under 12 remain at The Briar Club. 14
YOUTH EVENTS
SUPERHERO TRAINING
SANTA’S WO R KSHO P
B OU NC E APALOOZ A
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16
Come dressed as your favorite Superhero for Training, Games, and Dinner!
Let your child express their creative side with crafts and wrapping paper as they make presents for family and friends. Dinner included!
Winter break means no more exams and what better way to celebrate than with an end of the year Teen Party? Gather your friends and let’s have a blast at The Briar Club! Bounce activities, games, food and more!
Saturday, November 19, 2016 6:00 - 9:00 pm AGES: Ages 5 & up PRICING: $25.00 per child LOCATION: General Purpose Room
bRIAR FUN NIGHT!
Saturday, December 3, 2016 6:00 - 9:00 pm AGES: 5 & Up PRICING: $30.00 per child LOCATION: General Purpose Room
Friday, December 16, 2016 7:00 - 9:00 pm AGES: Jr. High & Up PRICING: $20.00 Members | $25.00 Guests LOCATION: Sports Court
bRIAR FUN NIGHT!
Some events are not drop-off events. Parents must remain on-campus for the duration of the time that their children under 12 remain at The Briar Club. 15
YOUTH EVENTS BRIAR FUN DAY CAMPS
During the holiday breaks, we will be offering Briar Fun Day camps for all children ages 5 and up. Each Briar Fun Day includes activities, lunch and a snack. The Briar Fun Day Camps require a reservation for each day. Please visit the Youth Calendar online to register at least 24 hours in advance. Unfortunately, we only schedule staff for as many children have reservations so it has become harder to accept walk-ins. If you didn’t make reservations, call ahead to see if there are any open spots.
THANKSGIVING WEEK
CHRISTMAS WEEK
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 19 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 PRICING: $50.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch and Snack.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson.
NURSERY & KIDS CLUB RESERVATIONS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE! Reservations for your child can now be made online through the Kids Club and Nursery Reservations page, located under the Youth tab on the website menu. To have enough staff on hand, we require you to make reservations no later than 24 hours in advance. Please call ahead to make sure we have space if you were unable to make reservations.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23 PRICING: $50.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch and Snack. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29 PRICING: $70.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch, Snack and 1 hour Tennis Lesson. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30 PRICING: $50.00 per child. Includes Activities, Lunch and Snack.
AQUATICS The Aquatics Department continues to offer swimming programs for children throughout the fall and into the winter. Both Lap Pools will be heated throughout the winter. We can set up private or semi-private lessons anytime for children and adults at any time. We also offer afternoon group swimming classes , year round USA Swimming and non-competitive swim team practices for our older swimmers. Please contact the Aquatics office at 713-552-2126 or swim@thebriarclub.com for additional information on days and times for our Group Swim Lesson Classes. Call early to reserve your prime time spots for March!
YEAR-ROUND USA SWIM TEAM & NON-COMPETITIVE PRACTICES The Briar club has created a culture of success and enthusiasm about swimming that is hard to find elsewhere. Our USA Swimming Program is lead by Coach Tim Chung and Coach Mycal Dede. They both work hard to provide the children with a challenging program that still remains fun and enjoyable. The Briar Club offers year round swimming programs for children of a variety of ages and skill levels. Below are the following options for your child to choose from. Gold and Silver Groups will register with Rice Aquatics and will compete at USA Swim Meets. Red and Bronze are noncompetitive groups designed to give children stroke work and swimming practice who do not wish to compete at a USA level.
PRACTICE TIMES PER GROUP ARE AS FOLLOWS IN THE COMPETITION POOL
GOLD GROUP RED GROUP Non-competitive
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 4:30 - 5:30 pm
DRY-LAND WORKOUT Monday - Thursday 4:30 - 5:30 pm
SILVER GROUP Monday - Thursday 4:30 - 5:30 pm Saturday 9:00 - 10:00 am
SWIM WORKOUT Monday - Thursday Saturday 5:30 - 7:00 pm 7:00 - 9:00 am
BRONZE GROUP Non-competitive
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 5:30 - 6:30 pm
AD ULT SWIM CLINICS
During these clinics adult swimmers will participate in a group workout while working on stroke technique, endurance, and get pointers on how to plan swim workouts to do on their own throughout the week. These clinics are designed for swimmers of all levels. Clinics will take place on Saturday mornings. Please register online, through the Aquatics office at 713-622-3667 ext: 2126 or swim@thebriarclub.com. DATES: October 22, October 29, November 5, November 19, December 3 TIMES: 10:00 - 11:00 am PRICING: $25.00 per clinic
P O L AR BE AR S WIM CONTES T The Aquatics Department is happy to announce the return of the Polar Bear Swimming Contest which will run from January 2 - February 28. This is an endurance competition where swimmers will log how many meters they swim per day at the club. The top distance swimmers in each age group will win a prize! The age groups will consist of 5-10, 11-17, 18-40, 41-60, and 61+. We hope you will take the plunge with us this winter in one of the two heated lap pools. Log your laps at the security booth! DATES: January 2 - February 28, 2016
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OKTOBERFEST PRO-AM
TENNIS
October 7 - 8, 2016
1ST ANNUAL TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT September 10 & 11, 2016
Our biggest Tennis events of the year allowed us to utilize our outdoor green space where members and pros enjoyed an Oktoberfest themed celebration on Friday, and tennis on Saturday. We enjoyed seeing all of our members get into the theme with their costumes and beer steins!
We held the first annual Table Tennis Tournament in September with a great turn out and great time. We hope to see you all back next year!
Singles Winner: Tony Padon and Mark Hobbs
Doubles Winners: Matthew Johnson and guest Salim Khoury
JR TENNIS Monday, August 22 - Thursday, December 15 Ages 3-4: Monday - Thursday from 3:45 - 4:30 pm, $20 per day Ages 5-8: Monday - Thursday from 4:00 - 5:00 pm, $20 per day Ages 9+: Monday - Thursday from 5:00 - 6:00 pm, $30 per day Brdg. & Adv.: Monday - Thursday from 4:30 - 6:00 pm, $30 per day Please contact Mike Alcott, Head Tennis Professional, at (713) 552-2121 or headtennispro@thebriarclub.com
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PRO-AM RESULTS MENS I 1st Place: Charlie Vetters & Michael Feucht 2nd Place: Duston McFaul & Jeandre Hoogenboezem 3rd Place: Tony Padon & Harry Fowler 4th Place: Greg Chitty & Christoffer Appelgren
LADIES I / MIXED 1st Place: Jennifer Wallace Warren & Erhart Asaad 2nd Place: Natalie Synnott & Gonzalo Anderson 3rd Place: Martha Cancelmo & Ross Persons 4th Place: Libby Clement & Marlon Mazique
MENS II 1st Place: Danny Savitz & Dickson Ogu 2nd Place: Jim Meneely & Logan Powell 3rd Place: Sean Daichman & Juuso Laitinen 4th Place: Chris Popov & Shaheen Ladhani
LADIES II / MIXED 1st Place: Melissa Hobbs & Tim Green 2nd Pace: Shannon Huff & Stephen Coyle 3rd Place: Suzanne Dildy & Robby Clarkson 4th Place: Melissa Stryker & Robin Fernandes
TENNIS EVENTS
L ADIES H ALL O W E E N DOU B L E S
CENTURY MENS DOUBLES
LADIES JIN GLE BELL MIXER
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9
Don your best Halloween costume for our annual Halloween Tennis Match! You must be dressed in a Halloween costume in order to play! All levels of play are welcome!
Hit the courts in pairs in our multi-level Century Mens Doubles Tournament! Each team’s ages must total 100 or above. Please enter your age upon sign-up, for more accurate pairing of doubles partners!
Join your Briar ladies on the courts for this annual Club tradition. You must be dressed in Holiday or Christmas attire in order to play!
Friday, October 28, 2016 9:30 - 11:30 am PRICING: $30.00 per player Pricing includes food, drinks, prizes and tennis play. LOCATION: Tennis Courts
Saturday, November 12, 2016 8:00 am - 2:00 pm PRICING: $30.00 per player Pricing includes food, drinks, prizes and tennis play. LOCATION: Tennis Courts
Friday, December 9, 2016 9:30 - 11:30 am PRICING: $35.00 per player Pricing includes food, drinks, prizes and tennis play. LOCATION: Tennis Courts
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FITNESS Try these tips to keep the body in tip-top shape: 1.Cardiovascular Training. Remember there are only three things you can do in a fitness program: 1) Workout more often (frequency), 2) Workout longer (time) or 3) Workout harder (intensity). Play with frequency and/or time before the last one since the higher our intensity the more likelihood of injury. If you have to increase the intensity, try it gradually and do it in intervals where you spend a period of time at a slower pace followed by a set time at a slightly higher pace. When beginning interval training, strive initially for a recovery time that is twice the higher intensity. For example, I start off walking on a treadmill at 3.5 mph and after 4 minutes decide to do a two minutes of walking at 4.2 mph. After those two minutes, reduce the speed back down to 3.5 mph for at least another 4 minutes before increasing the speed again. As you improve, you can make the intervals the same for more intensity and a higher caloric burn. When you achieve your goal, reduce the frequency and time so that future adjustments can be made before resorting to intensity and potential injury. 2.Strength Training. There are a multitude of ways to increase the intensity of your resistance program to include super setting, giant sets, super slow, circuit training, pyramids, Peripheral Heart Action, negative training, forced reps as well as many others. If you have any questions please let me know and I will be glad to help you incorporate them into your workout routine. - Rich Andrae, Wellness and Fitness Director, Fitness@thebriarclub.com
BIKE RIDE DAY @ THE ZOO SUN DAY, N OVEMBER 6
12 E X E R C I S E D A Y S O F C HR I S TM A S
H OLI DAY PART Y S U RV I V AL G U I DE
THURSDA Y, NOVEMBER 17
From the zoo, we will ride Braeswood Bayou and the Rice University area. After that you are free to enjoy the rest of the day at the Houston zoo with a great parking space.
Join Rich Andrae, Wellness Director, for an informal lunch seminar to learn how to survive the holiday party circuit by making healthier choices.
Sunday, November 6 Starts at 7:30 am
Thursday, November 17 11:30 am - 12:30 pm
PRICING: Complimentary LOCATION: Meet in Zoo Parking Lot
PRICING: $10.00 per person Pricing includes beverages, special appetizers and light snacks
LOCATION: The Bistro
DECEMBER 12 - 23 This is a cumulative event so that each day we are adding an exercise to increase the duration, intensity and time of the workout. Pick up the exercise card of the day at the Fitness Desk and complete all the exercises. You can sign up on the Event log to record their activity. Complete all twelve days and receive a Resting Metabolic Test for $25 (Value: $75) to determine the calories you expend at rest. A great way to jump start your New Year’s Resolutions!
ENTRY FEE: $10.00
The Fitness Center and Lockers will be closed on Saturday, December 31, 2016 and Sunday, January 1, 2017 for yearly scheduled maintenance.
W H Y P I L AT E S ?
Pilates provides flexibility, stability, balance, stamina, endurance and self-esteem. Pilates is the safe and challenging way to change your life, forever...regardless of age. The key is finding a highly qualified instructor who shows a personal interest in you...your strengths and your weaknesses. As a team you will grow in strength, flexibility, stamina, stress relief, and a heightened feeling of self-esteem and body awareness. For more information on how to sign up for a class, please contact Pilates Coordinator Larry Zikes at pilates@thebriarclub.com.
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The Briar Club
OCTOBER 2016 EVENTS CALENDAR SUNDAY 16
MONDAY 17
TUESDAY 18
WEDNESDAY 19
24
25
21
SATURDAY 22 ADULT SWIM CLINIC
26
27
28 LADIES HALLOWEEN TENNIS DOUBLES
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
30
20
FRIDAY
MEET THE CANDIDATES
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
23
THURSDAY
29 ADULT SWIM CLINIC
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
31 BRIAR BOO BASH HALLOWEEN
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The Briar Club
NOVEMBER 2016 EVENTS CALENDAR SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY 1
WEDNESDAY 2
THURSDAY 3
FRIDAY 4
SATURDAY 5
MEET THE CANDIDATES
6
7
8
9
ADULT SWIM CLINIC
10
11
12
BIKE RIDE DAY AT THE ZOO
MENS CENTURY DOUBLES
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS (FALL BACKWARDS!)
13
ELECTION DAY 14
15
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
20
16
21
22 BRIAR FUN DAY CAMPS
28
23
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
29
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
OLD MCBRIAR FARM
VETERANS’ DAY 17
18
19
HOLIDAY PARTY SURVIVAL GUIDE
ADULT SWIM CLINIC
ANNUAL MEETING
SUPERHERO TRAINING
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
27
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
24
25
THANKSGIVING AT THE CLUB
26 BRIAR DINNER + MAGIC SHOW
THANKSGIVING DAY
30
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
As a reminder, all events can be registered for online through our website TheBriarClub.com, calling the Department directly, or emailing the Department Director. If the event is for children only, adults are more than welcome to use any of the Club facilities and restaurants during the duration of the event, as it is required to remain on property for all children 12 and under.
Receptionist 713-622-3667 Receptionist@thebriarclub.com
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Fitness Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2134 Fitness@thebriarclub.com
Tennis Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2121 Tennis@thebriarclub.com
Aquatics Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2126 PoolManager@thebriarclub.com
Youth Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2133 Gina@thebriarclub.com
The Briar Club
DECEMBER 2016 EVENTS CALENDAR SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY 1
FRIDAY
SATURDAY 3
2
ADULT SWIM CLINIC SANTA’S WORKSHOP
4
5
6
7
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
18
10 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
12
13
14
12 EXERCISE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
19
20
26
15
16
21
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
27
28 BRIAR FUN DAY CAMPS
CHRISTMAS DAY
17 TEEN PARTY BOUNCE - A PALOOZA
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
BRIAR FUN DAY CAMPS
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
25
9 LADIES JINGLE BELL MIXER
BRUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE BRIAR CLUB BISTRO
11
8
22
23
PRESENTATION BALL
24 POLAR EXPRESS CHRISTMAS EVE
29
30
31 NEW YEARS BINGO NEW YEARS EVE
RENDEZVOUS HAPPY HOUR THE LOUNGE BAR
FITNESS CENTER - CLOSED
As a reminder, all events can be registered for online through our website TheBriarClub.com, calling the Department directly, or emailing the Department Director. If the event is for children only, adults are more than welcome to use any of the Club facilities and restaurants during the duration of the event, as it is required to remain on property for all children 12 and under.
Receptionist 713-622-3667 Receptionist@thebriarclub.com
Fitness Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2134 Fitness@thebriarclub.com
Tennis Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2121 Tennis@thebriarclub.com
Aquatics Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2126 PoolManager@thebriarclub.com
Youth Department 713-622-3667 ext: 2133 Gina@thebriarclub.com
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T H E B R IA R C L U B 2603 TIMMONS LANE, HOUSTON, TX 77027 (713) 622-3667 | WWW.THEBRIARCLUB.COM
Staff Directory Daniel Moreno
Taisa Reina
General Manager, COO manager@thebriarclub.com
Director of Human Resources personnel@thebriarclub.com
Asif Ehsan (Eric)
Mallory Collins
CFO cfo@thebriarclub.com
Marketing & Communications communications@thebriarclub.com
Casey Newman, CCM
Jan Vick
2016 Board of Directors Shannon Huff
Clubhouse Manager casey@thebriarclub.com
Director of Tennis tennis@thebriarclub.com
Will Garwood President
Tennis
Linda Benson
Rich Andrae
Rob Traband
Kathleen O’Reilly
Director of Membership membership@thebriarclub.com
Director of Fitness fitness@thebriarclub.com
Samantha Van Veen
Gina De Pamphilis
Assistant Clubhouse Manager samantha@thebriarclub.com
Director of Youth gina@thebriarclub.com
Michael Powell, CEC
Jon Diller
Executive Chef chef@thebriarclub.com
Director of Aquatics poolmanager@thebriarclub.com
Amanda Hough
Jill Varas
Director of Catering cateringdirector@thebriarclub.com
Member Billing billing@thebriarclub.com
Vice President, Membership
Aquatics
Clark Lord
Bruce Derrick
Secretary, House/Legal
Physical Properties
David Mordy
Claire Curtin
Treasurer, Finance
Youth
Rob Sigler
Paige Hagle
Ex-Officio, Building, Strategic Planning
Cletus Dodd Entertainment/Food & Beverage
Fitness