Messages from the GM

Dear Members,

As I write you now at the end of September, I wish there was a crystal ball to tell me what October might bring. This is the fifth issue of The 1919 that I have written my GM’s letter for during the pandemic. I have learned from the previous four that so much can happen between the time I type this letter and when you read it. Challenges fill not only the news daily but also our personal lives. We are living through profoundly trying times, and yet these days I do find comfort in things I can make better - like creating a safe environment on our Sola patio for families to have a good meal outside their home and continuing to offer our membership support. Fall to me is one of my most favorite times of the year, especially here in Santa Barbara. We get these amazing Indian Summers where our beautiful weather keeps us outside well into October and even November. Here at the Club it also marks our new fiscal year, with the Annual Meeting at the end of October (see page 13 for details). This brings membership together – albeit virtually this year – to discuss the successes and losses of the previous year and how we plan to improve the upcoming year. One definite success these past months is our Book Club and I want to commend them for continuing to meet virtually since April. Member Frank Peters really deserves all the credit for keeping Book Club alive. I have been told by many attendees that it is so nice to be able to connect with friends and Club members while distancing at home. My administration team and the membership committee has been inspired and are actively looking into bringing you more virtual options: Fireside Chats and Wine Tastings. The first Wine Dinner in our series was with Kaena Winery last month, followed by an evening with Dierberg and Star Lane Winery last week. Both were sold-out evenings and were enjoyed by all who attended. I want to thank our members for following all the safety rules we have in place and not mingling beforehand. It makes me feel secure for future Wine Dinners to come.

We are also continuing our wonderful Blues Brunches, happening the second Sunday of every month. Chef has created a delicious menu that is only offered at this event. When accompanied by the blues music, it makes for an idyllic afternoon! This too has been a success and quickly sells out, so make sure to make your reservations. This year has undoubtedly dealt us an interesting hand, but the upside is we get to choose how we throw our cards down. Keep letting us know what you would like from your Club and we will keep hard at work to make it possible. Be safe, be well and keep playing!

Sarah Rudd UClub General Manager Sarah.Rudd@uclubsb.org