Ahhhh....a new year is here. With "change" on everyone's mind these days, I'm inclined to reflect on the many positive changes that I've seen at The City Club over my 6 year tenure - and what a wild ride it's been! I've had the pleasure of welcoming so many wonderful Members to the Club and we, as Managers, enjoy the unique challenge of keeping things exciting and interesting for them, all the while maintaining the consistent values of a Membership club. That being said, allow me to elaborate on the images of "change" as seen through the eyes of the Club Director:
- Sold out Dining Rooms! Gone are the days when you could shoot a canon through the dining room at lunch and no one would be harmed...these days it's a packed house! To say that we love that would be an understatement. We love greeting our Members by name. We love how much they love their Club and enjoy showing it off to their guests. And most importantly, we love that we can always find them an open table, even when it appears to be SRO. Service with a smile, always.
- Excellent cuisine! A packed house can only mean one thing - the food must be top notch! As Chef Michael Munoz will tell you, when he came on board just about 5 years ago, he was determined to eliminate the stigma that "private Clubs serve bad food." And boy, did he do something right! We constantly receive praise for his outstanding creations, from the variety of the Cafe Buffet to the delicacies offered on the A la Carte menu - we've got one heck of a talented Chef and we're proud that he's all ours.
- Events! Not to brag too much, but we've been told a time or two that we throw a good party. In the last few years, thanks to the event suggestions from our Members and the creative geniuses that comprise our management team, we've taken events to whole new level. A boxing ring in the middle of the Cafe? No problem. Casablanca-style hookah lounge? Check. Havana Nights in January? We can't wait. Members not only enjoy the social nature of these events, but also the opportunity to network and entertain guests, for business or pleasure. On the business side of events, our Jamison Roundtable Luncheon series continues to gain momentum, thanks to the diligence and commitment of David Jamison, one of the Club's Founding Members. Excellent speakers and timely topics - thanks David!
- A true Art Deco treasure! Walking into The City Club for the first time is truly a magical moment. The looks of "awe" that we see when someone admires the Diego Rivera mural brings a smile to our face, every time. Our Club is a true gem and those of us who get to experience such elegance and splendor everyday are among the more fortunate ~ yet another reason our Members love calling this "their Club." The unparalleled decor and history of The City Club have been well preserved in the past few years, thanks in no small part to the commitment of the Owner to continually invest back into the Club, ensuring that we're always looking our best. It's amazing how much a gem can really shine with a little love and genuine care...and the capital for restorations here and there certainly helps! We're thankful for all of that.
Our Members are the heart and soul of The City Club ~ our most loyal fans and greatest assets for whom we have the great pleasure of welcoming everyday. As we look ahead to this year of "change," may we stay focused on making strides in a positive direction and continue to look at ways that we can be better citizens, partners, associates, and friends. I close with a reference to our Mission Statement, and the pledge to continue to promote positive change at The City Club of San Francisco ~ yesterday, today, and all of the tomorrow's to come.
"Our mission is to promote active engagement and influence in civic, social and business areas. We focus our support on community service, appreciation of The City's arts, culture and culinary experiences to inspire fellowship at the Club. People making a difference through leadership, fellowship and diversity defines the purpose of the Membership at The City Club of San Francisco. Camaraderie is not only important at the City Club...it defines our experience!"
- Victoria Welch, Club Director
