WHAT’S INSIDE
From the General Manager
Easter Brunch Pictures
Calendar
Author Event Pictures
From the General Manager
Easter Brunch Pictures
Calendar
Author Event Pictures
I write this month’s article with a great deal of sadness. The sudden passing of Ryan Bentley, the Club’s Golf Course Superintendent, was a shock to all of us and was particularly significant to me since I have had an opportunity to work closely with Ryan over the past year. Ryan made a significant contribution to our golf course and surrounding campus, and his ever-present smile and constant presence during this year’s weather-related crises will be sorely missed.
The celebration of Ryan’s life that was held at the Club on April 20 was a wonderful tribute and gave many of us an opportunity to express our sincere feelings of loss and our respect for Ryan’s expertise.
We are extremely fortunate that Will Soto, our Assistant Golf Course Superintendent, has stepped in to fill the breach on an interim basis. Will was very fortunate to receive special training and development under both Ryan and his predecessor Marty
Moore. Will has been working closely with Jordan since Ryan’s passing.
I am leading a search committee which will begin reviewing candidates to replace Ryan. The Superintendent’s job at Birnam Wood is highly sought after, and we have already received a number of resumes from highly qualified candidates. This process will continue over the next few weeks.
It is important for us to select a permanent replacement for Ryan as soon as possible because we are planning on an April 2024 start date for the implementation of the Master Plan of the golf course. A significant amount of work will be required for us to meet that date. Jordan and I are meeting regularly with our golf course architect,
Todd Eckenrode, and the Construction Oversight Committee has begun a series of meetings to finalize arrangements with the golf course contractors.
Beginning in May, you will see work commencing on all the bridges on campus and on the golf course. The Board approved this effort at its last meeting. The bridges needed repairs, and those efforts will continue for several months.
Finally, work continues on the rear terrace, and our expectation is that we will be able to fully use the entire patio by early June.
Respectfully,
Stan AndersonThis has been a difficult month for the staff at Birnam Wood. The unexpected passing of Ryan Bentley, our Golf Course Superintendent, has been deeply felt by the entire team. Ryan was such a positive person, and his enthusiasm and humor brightened our days. Not only was he extremely knowledgeable in his field, but he was extremely loved by his Birnam Wood family.
Ryan’s professionalism and dedication to his work was exemplary. This past winter was unprecedented with its weather and challenges. Ryan rose to the challenges and used his knowledge, creativity, and deep desire to always do his very best, to keep the creeks flowing and the golf course open, despite numerous setbacks. Ryan’s proactive attention to our creeks saved us thousands of dollars in potential damage and kept the Club safe. He was extremely dedicated to his job and the overall success of Birnam Wood and, when thanked for all of his extra work and effort, would respond, “Hey, I’m just doing my job.”
One of the great things Ryan brought to the Club was his perspective, earned through over 20+ years in the industry. There would be times when I could tell he was having a hard day, and I would ask him if he was ok. He would always say, “Jordan, its only temporary.” That matter-of-fact statement had an impact on me, and I will remember it for the rest of my life, because he was right. In this industry, there will always be obstacles and curve balls. The weather is unpredictable. Ryan had a good way of looking at life “in the now” and helping us to remember that setbacks are temporary. The seasons change. The rain will stop, the sun will shine, and things will be ok.
Ryan and I met weekly and, during those meetings, Ryan often expressed concern with what I needed. “Jordan, how can I make your day easier with regard to the golf course?” or “Jordan, I have written you a report on things you need to know for your upcoming board meeting.” I would often have to turn the meeting around just to find out what he needed from me.
I have known Ryan for many years, and he was one of the most selfless people I have ever known. He was always thinking of others and rarely thinking of himself. He was eager to please and he understood hospitality. Although Ryan’s passing is tragic and very painful for the many friends and family he left behind, his legacy will be remembered, especially by me.
Jordan Sweeney General ManagerResident
Lindsay Parton, Ron Robertson, Glen Wysel
David was born and raised in Santa Barbara, graduating from Laguna Blanca and Santa Barbara High School. After graduating, he joined his family business at Santa Barbara Travel Bureau, and is now in his 43rd year with the company, and has grown the business significantly in his role as CEO. He played varsity tennis and soccer at SBHS and UCSB. His grandfather was a Valley Club member as was his brother Charles. Liz was born in Kahului, Hawaii and moved to San Diego when she was 4. She grew up playing volleyball and softball. Liz and David met at UCSB and married in 1982. They have 3 children who all grew up in Santa Barbara schools. They love to spend time outside, skiing, biking, hiking, swimming and of, course, playing golf.
Resident
Steve Hayes, Bill Grokenberger, Dave Grotenhuis
Mary Ricks is the President and CEO of Kennedy Wilson, headquartered in Beverly Hills. She oversees their investment activities, focused on multifamily and office properties in the Western U.S., UK and Ireland and all European operations for the company. She has more than 30 years’ experience in International Real Estate. Catherine graduated from the UC Davis MS in Viticulture and Enology and in 2006 started her own label, producing small, select wines. They have one daughter and play both golf and tennis. They are very excited to enjoy all that Birnam has to offer.
Non-Resident
Lina Ensor, Jim Fordyce, Hal Washburn
Janna has worked at 1st Century Bank since 2020 and was at Bank of America prior to that. Jon works at the Bayside Anesthesia Group at St. John’s Hospital and has since 1978. He is the Medical Director of the Surgery Center of the Pacific. They have 5 children and are avid swimmers. They also enjoy golf and pickleball and are very excited to spend time at Birnam Wood with their family.
Out of State
Rich Flaten, Joe Crafton, Bill Hickey, Lizzie Peus
Bryan became President of CrossFirst Bank, Dallas in March of 2021 after serving as a business development officer for CrossFirst Private Client Group for 2 years. After a combined 18 years, Bryan retired from Accenture, LLC in 2014 to focus on independent consulting services and private investments. He is currently the President of Fin & Feather Club of Dallas and a member of the Dallas Country Club. He and Jill have two children and enjoy playing golf, tennis and pickleball. They have a number of friends here at Birnam Wood and are looking forward to spending some time in Santa Barbara.
Out of State
Rich Flaten, Tim Underwood, Corey Martin
Kirk graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration from Baylor University. He is a Managing Director with Citigroup Global Markets, working in the Private Bank. He has been with Citigroup for 12 years focusing on financial sponsors and global family offices. He is currently on the Board of Governors of the Dallas Country Club and is very involved in the Salesmanship Club of Dallas, where he spends time each week working directly with students. He and Kim have three children and many friends at Birnam Wood.
Resident
Bob Smith, Mike Kravchuk, Tony Wilson
Tracy has served as a director of Hilltop Holdings, LLC and is a partner at Hartman, Lieto and Bolt, an accounting and consulting firm based in Fort Worth, TX. He holds a BA of Science and an MA of Science from the University of North Texas and is a CPA. He is on numerous boards. He and Crystal have two children and belong to a number of clubs. They are looking forward to enjoying time at Birnam Wood.
Resident
Chris Francis, Bob Montgomery, June Kjaempe
Jeff grew up in Los Angeles where he attended Loyola High School and USC. After graduating, he joined his family business, Young’s Market Company, a leading wholesale distributer of wines and spirits in the 10 most western states. He is currently on the Board and is developing a beveragecentered brand that involves opening a restaurant in Kauai by the end of the year. He has three children who all attend school in the Santa Barbara area. He enjoys golfing, fly fishing, and time with family.
The following new candidates for membership will be considered at the next meeting of the Membership Committee:
Linda Davies
Local Hotel Owner
Tennis Coral Casino
Hamid Sadrae
Co-owner Baccaccios/The Landing Grill
Resident Wood Ranch Golf Club
Mrs. Susan Burns
Mr. Dave Peterson
Mr. David Cronenbold
Mr. Bryan de Ponce
For the best interest of the Club, information regarding any candidate, whether favorable or unfavorable, is earnestly requested. Communications concerning any applicant may be made personally or by a signed writing to the Membership Committee. All communications will be held in strict confidence.
Please submit comments by Friday, May 19, 2023.
Membership Committee:
Kelly Vandever, Chair
Jen Abed Trey Evans David Grotenhuis
Ryan Malmsten Patty Marshall
Marta Babson
Matt Porter
Betsey Moller
Chris Gregoire
Anna Cox Member since 2020
Robert Veloz Member since 1994
Suzanne Rheinstein Member since 2015
March 13, 2023
First Place: Peter Stalker & Mollie Love 62% Tie for 2nd: Peter Johnson & Peter Gray 50% Jerry Rocco & Joan Rocco 50%
March 20, 2023
East West
First: Bob Bonhof & Bobbie Dohan 61.77%
Second: Barbara Randall & Frank Randall
North South
First: Roger Lenard & Brian McGrath 61.69%
Second: Peter Stalker & Mollie Love
March 27, 2023
East West
First: Kay Sellers & Sally Barden 53.50%
Second: Peter Johnson & Brian McGrath 51%
North South
First: Joan Rocco & Peter Gray 66.50%
Second: Agnes Murdoch & David Murdoch 52%
April 4, 2023
First: Key Sellers & Sally Barden 60%
Second: Morris Jurkowitz & Peggy Anderson 56.25%
April 10, 2023
First: David Murdoch & Agnes Murdoch 64%
Second: Peter Johnson & Brian McGrath 53%
April 17, 2023
First: Roger Lenard & Brian McGrath 57.81%
Second: David Murdoch & Agnes Murdoch 51.08%
April 24, 2023
First: Jerry Rocco & Joan Rocco 65.28%
Second: Sally Barden & Peggy Anderson 63.65%
* Please note, Duplicate Bridge draws to a close May 8th
I want to start off by thanking the entire membership for their warm welcome over the past year. I have officially reached my one-year anniversary here at Birnam Wood. As I look back to all the sold-out events, the enthusiastic membership, and our amazing team, I am both humbled and pleased. I look forward to serving you for many years to come.
This past month we participated in the Backyard Bounty program, the volunteer powered gleaning program of the Santa Barbara Foodbank. Volunteers glean from backyards, gardens, farms, and orchards in the Santa Barbara area and redistribute the produce to those in our community who face hunger and food insecurity. Last month, here in Birnam Wood, volunteers gathered 950 lbs. of produce from our members’ gardens. We thank all those who participated!
We have a busy May ahead of us. Make sure you join us on May 6th, in the 19th Hole for our Kentucky Derby Viewing Party. Remember your fancy fascinator hats and your straw boaters. There will be a contest for the Best Dressed Individual, The Best Dressed Couple and, of course, the best hat. Members will also get to place a few friendly trifecta wagers if they so desire.
Lastly, you don’t want to miss out on our Grgich Hills Estate wine dinner. Learn more about Mike Grgich and his famous victory at the 1976 Judgment of Paris Tasting while working for Chateau Montelena. Grgich Hills is one of the first Napa Valley certified organic wines, even before organic was a cool thing.
I am so excited to begin my article by recognizing one of my employees for reaching a well-deserved professional milestone. Reese Hutchins has successfully completed his PGA Apprenticeship and has earned his PGA Membership. This program is very time consuming and encompasses all aspects of the golf business. When you see Reese at the Club, please congratulate him on this big accomplishment, he earned it.
May marks the beginning of a busy golf season. There are a number of events happening in May and the beginning of June that need to be on your calendar. We have made it easier for you to register. You can do it straight from the Birnam Wood App. You can go to the Upcoming Events tab under Golf, search for the event, and click Register. Depending on the event, you may have to answer questions or add other members/guests to your group.
Here are the events over the next month or so. Men have their Ryder Cup Matches on May 12 and 13. USA captains, Charlie Bissell and Chris Gregoire, and International captains, David Cronenbold and Kelly Vandever, will draft their teams a couple of days before the event. Please sign up early. The monthly Men’s Guest Days will take place on May 3rd and
June 7th. The Men’s McLean Member-Member will be held on June 2nd and 3rd. This is a spectacular event you do not want to miss. Find a partner and get signed up. You will have an incredible experience!
Ladies will be wrapping up their team play season with matches on May 2nd and May 8th versus San Luis Obispo and Woodland Hills, respectively. Their First Tuesday events will be held on May 9th (due to team play) and June 6th. The RTJ “Trail” Challenge (Member-Member) is scheduled for May 18th and 19th. The first day will be an afternoon shotgun with a wonderful reception at the Bocce Courts following the round. Day 2 will be the traditional morning start (9:00am) with breakfast at 8:00am, and lunch and awards following the round. The ladies will host their Special Guest Day on June 9th.
The Mixed Friday Game will be back, as well. Create a foursome or sign up as a single. This will take place on Friday, May 26. The reception following golf will be held at the Bocce Courts. We will have our first Jump Up of the season on Sunday, June 11th. This is a mixed event and guest fees are waived. The entry fee is $10 plus dinner after the round.
The BWWGA 2023
most improved players:
January - Anne Hall
February - Barbara Kummer
March - Dina Wilson
Finally, men, the registration for the Robert Trent Jones Classic (Member-Guest) will open within the first two weeks of May. We will send a video with the exact day so all members have the same opportunity to sign up for this fantastic event.
Gear Effect is the result of off-center contact horizontally and/or vertically along the clubface, which not only influences the direction, but the spin, of the golf ball.
To help illustrate how Gear Effect works imagine the clubhead is one gear and the ball is a second gear. When a gear rotates in one direction, the second gear will rotate in the opposite direction.
If the ball contact is located on the toe of the clubhead, the clubhead will rotate clockwise causing the ball to rotate counterclockwise resulting in a draw or hook. If the ball contact is located on the heel of the clubhead, the clubhead will rotate counterclockwise causing the ball to rotate clockwise resulting in a fade or slice. One way to remember how this works is the ball will always spin towards the center of gravity of the clubhead.
By design, irons have a tendency to twist more than drivers and fairway metals. However, the Gear Effect is less compared to drivers and fairway metals because the center of gravity is closer to the ball.
Drivers, fairway metals, and hybrids are designed with what is called bulge and roll. Bulge is the curvature of the clubface from the heel to the toe. Roll is the curvature of the face from the crown of the club to the sole. Bulge is a positive feature and is important to help the ball spin towards the target line.
Let’s look at how Vertical Gear Effect can help you hit better wedge shots. Great wedge players tend to hit the ball low with increased spin to make the ball stop. They do this by hitting the ball slightly below the center of the face causing the clubhead to tilt forward. The clubhead is rotating counterclockwise (tilting down/ delofted) causing the ball to rotate clockwise (up) creating an increase in backspin.
If you are having difficulty creating spin with your wedges, the contact is too high on the clubface. Contact above the center of the clubface causes the clubhead to tilt clockwise (tilting up/ increased loft). This causes the ball to rotate counterclockwise (down) creating less spin.
If your shots are curving too far to the left or right, or you are struggling to create spin with your wedges, look at your clubface to see where you are contacting the golf ball. Gear Effect may be the cause.
AND JOIN THE FUN!
May 18th and 19th 2023
FRIDAY, MAY 26 AT 1:00 PM
FRIDAY, JUNE 30 AT 1:00 PM
Men’s and Women’s Division
Partners Member /Member two day tournament
Thursday May 18th 1:00pm Shamble
With trail bites after golf
Friday May 19th 9am Better Ball
8am breakfast with awards lunch after Tee Prize, Closest to Pin, Gross & Net Awards
RTJ Trivia Quiz Contest
Sign up in the Pro Shop or on the App
$75 per player (includes all meals)
Chairs: Esther McKinley and Joyce Raymond
$25 CASH BUY-IN PER PLAYER
Foursome, Individual and Gross and Net Skins Reception after golf with complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Make your own foursome or sign up as a single.
Sign up on the App or with the Golf Shop.
Hello Birnam Wood! Wow… The weather has really taken a change towards beauty! All the rain this past season has really brought life to our beautiful mountainscape here in Montecito. While playing croquet this past week, it was difficult to keep my thoughts on the game. When you’re outdoors on our beautiful croquet field, the views are some of the best here at the Club. I hope that you are planning on joining me on Friday afternoons from 3:00 -4:30pm for some Croquet & Rosé. Our Friday game will run through June 30th, so come out and join us! Signs ups are through the app.
Our Ladies’ Interclub “C” tennis team is enjoying a fantastic season. Birnam Wood’s own Bethany Harkrider is at the helm as captain, and reports that “With only two matches left in the season, the BW/KTC/MC Interclub C team is tied for third place with Alisal Ranch. Birnam Wood players make up approximately 60% of this trial year three club team. The team’s Line 1 has been dominated by Jackie Gregoire and Kendall Pata, both enjoying a nearly undefeated season. The team is looking forward to ending the season strong. We are grateful for the experience and are currently recruiting players for next year’s All Birnam Interclub team.”
While we are talking Tennis, take a look at how our Clay Courts turned out after their reconditioning. They are fabulous!!
Shifting gears for a moment, recently I held an Introduction to Bocce Ball Class. Bocce 101 was a hit! We had 28 participants who signed up, yet 45 magically appeared on training night! It was amazing to see the interest in this fun social game. Thanks to all who came out. Now, let’s hope you are on a bocce team for our summer league.
Let’s not forget about our upcoming 3rd Annual Pickleball Shootout. We have four top level touring professionals playing for us this year. It will be a very special afternoon on the pickleball courts on May 25th You’ll witness some of the best in the sport right here at Birman Wood. Be sure to join us.
Remember, as summer quickly approaches, be sure to hydrate and keep that sunscreen handy. We have both at the courts if you happen to forget.
Get out and enjoy our beautiful climate while playing some of our sports here at the Club. Your fellow members will be out there as well, so join in the fun.
Our coaches quote this month rings true for anyone who has ever had to work hard to achieve. No shortcuts. This is what I see every day with our amazing membership. “You Don’t Demand Respect. You Earn it.”
~Steve Seidler Oregon State University BasketballWishing you all good health and fitness. See you on the courts!
TUESDAY’S
Classes are now held in our beautiful new Studio with some options live on Zoom. We look forward to moving and energizing with you!
TIME 3:00 TO 4:00 PM
BIRNAM BOOT CAMP WITH CHAVA RILEY MONDAY AT 10:30 AM
Tone, trim, and tighten to get ready for the summer with cardio fun, core work and booty sculpting. This workout will incorporate a variety of modalities, including aerobics, mat Pilates, and stability exercises. $25
Also available via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86464596587
IYENGAR YOGA WITH VANESSA BACHER WEDNESDAYS AT 11:00AM
STRENGTHEN AND LENGTHEN WITH CHAVA RILEY TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT 9:30AM
Move and groove with fun moves and music plus get a great muscle pump going. Designed for all fitness levels, this class will improve your balance, strength and flexibility.
$25
Also available via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86464596587
This class focuses on the fundamentals of Iyengar Yoga through correct alignment of posture to develop strength, endurance, flexibility, optimal body alignment, and mental clarity. Each class is unique and for all fitness levels, using props for a range of standing and restorative poses. $25-$30
Need a new way to crush your Core? Get on the Stability ball with these three options:
1. Ball Crunch: Keep your lower back on the ball, arch back and then round forward, exhaling as you contract forward. Hold your head steady and extend one arm for more challenge. The ball should not move. Repeat 25x.
2. Tuck: Kneel down and start with ball in front you. Roll out until you are in a Plank position. Keep your shoulder blades stable and tuck your knees into your chest. Exhale as you tuck in, inhale back to Plank position. Repeat 15x.
3. Pike: Start out in a Plank position with legs on ball. Keep your knees straight and pike your hips up into an inverted “V”. Make sure your shoulders stay stable in your back and exhale as you pull your hips up and abs in. Repeat 15x.
Interested in Personal Training but want to share the time (and fun!) with friends? Do you like group exercise classes but need more assistance with previous injuries or specific goals? Try fully customizable Small Group Personal Training!
Our SGP Training includes a one-on-one assessment/consultation and either one or two full hour group sessions per week. It’s your call! You can set up your own group of three or more students or request to be in one on the Birnam Wood App.
Just go to “Fitness & Wellness” on the App and select “Small Group Personal Training Request”. Your Fitness staff will help you design the right fit for your needs. Charges vary according to the size of your Group and the number of times per week.
Here are some ideas for YOUR Small Group Personal Training:
This series will teach you the basics of the Fitness Center equipment, including machines, free weights, bands, Bosus,
etc. and give you what you need to build a balanced, effective and FUN workout program. Get the confidence you need when training and the knowledge to stay injury-free.
The goal of this training is to give you the tools you need to lose weight and gain strength. Using a variety of cardio and resistance training, this program will help you get to the next level of fitness.
This clinic is aimed at keeping you fall-free for the long run. You will get stronger by working on basic strength exercises integrated with a variety of balance drills.
Take your game to the next level with these clinics meant to strengthen your core, balance, full body strength, agility and flexibility.
President Stanton Anderson
Secretary & Treasurer Wade Nichols
Director Tim Armour
Director Charlie Bissell
Director Michael Bonsignore
Director Richard Caleel
Director Gary Finefrock
Director Linda Gluck
Director Nancy Hunter
Director Steve Jones
Director Diane Lundberg
Director Chris Teasley
Director Kelly Vandever
A&L Christopher Teasley
Athletic Wade Nichols
Compensation & HR Robert Nourse
Construction
Oversight Steve Jones
Cottage Sharol Siemens
Design Alex Nourse
Finance Richard De Schutter
401k Tim Armour
Golf Charlie Bissell
Green Matt Porter
Homeowners Richard Caleel
House Rachael Douglas
Membership Kelly Vandever
The next regular meeting of The Board of Directors will be held on FRIDAY, MAY 26, 2023 AT 9 AM.
2031 Packing House Road Santa Barbara, CA 93108
CLUBHOUSE DRESS CODE - Country club casual dress is acceptable during the day in all areas of the clubhouse. For gentlemen this includes slacks or Bermuda shorts, collared shirts tucked in at the waist with a belt, or appropriate golf and tennis attire and for ladies this includes dresses, nice pants, skirts, and similar attire. In the evening, a country club casual dining option is available in the Casual Grill, the 19th Hole Bar, and on the Terrace. The Club may request event-specific appropriate attire (black tie, blue jean pants permitted, etc.) for certain functions. Members hosting or sponsoring private events are responsible for communicating the Club dress code to those attending such events.
CANCELLATION POLICY - Reservations for private parties and Club sponsored events will be charged to the Member’s account unless notice of cancellation is received at the office at least 48 hours in advance. Reservations for Major Club sponsored special events will be charged to the Member’s account unless notice of cancellation is received at the office at least one week in advance. Should a cancellation be made after these times, a charge of one half of the price of the event will be made. Should no cancellation be made, the full price will be charged.
CELL PHONES AND BUSINESS PARAPHERNALIA - The use of cellular phones and other electronic and wireless devices for the purpose of conducting audible conversations is strictly prohibited on the Club premises (including the Clubhouse and the Terrace areas of the Clubhouse, tennis courts, croquet courts, driving range, and golf course), except inside parked vehicles and the locker rooms and except for medical emergencies.
FOR YOUR PROTECTION - Audio and video recording is taking place at Birnam Wood.
Jordan Sweeney, CCM, CSW, General Manager and COO
Luis Flores, Director of Clubhouse Operations
Kristy Evans, Director of Membership & Communication
Michael Goodcase, Director of Golf
Scott Burton, Athletic Director
Manny Bravo, Director of Security
Dolly St. Germain, Controller
Debbie Daggett, Director of Human Resources
Eric Salazar, Director of Food & Beverage
Abdu Romero, Executive Chef
Tiffany Grummer, Director of Private Events
Israel Ruiz, Facilities Director
Joy DuMay, Fitness Co-Director
Liz Parrish, Fitness Co-Director
Katie Atchley, Executive Assistant
Cathy Kendrick, Lead Front Desk Attendant