SummerRoad TripTake Advantage Of TheseThree Reciprocal Clubs

13BINGOFamily Fun, Food & PrizesBuffet at 6:00PMBINGO at 7:00PM

Save The Date!HRC CupTennis TournamentOctober 18 & 19

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A PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON RACQUET CLUB houstonracquetclub.com

13June & July 2013

SummerAt HRCTop Ten ThingsTo Do This SummerAt HRC

Don’t Be Left Out!EA Photography will be back in the Clubthe month of June. If you were unable

to be photographed for our member recognition album the first time around, now is your opportunity. Call to schedule

your complimentary family portrait today. Appointments are Tuesday-Sunday.

1.800.653.5766

Summer is just around the corner and I’m assuming that the incredibly cool spring has given way to oppressive heat and HRC’s pools are busy. We have a very active membership and your Board and HRC Management have been focused on providing better service than ever before.

In that spirit, HRC has just hired Chris Bovett to be the new Director of Junior Tennis. Over the last 3 decades, Chris has led the most successful junior program in Texas. More information on Chris is in Thomas Cook’s section.

SHOUT OUT: To the Women’s Association for the very generous donation for green space in the kid’s area. THANK YOU!

In my last newsletter, I spoke about capacity issues at HRC and the Board is working through several ways to address these. One opportunity that has been suggested many times to me is for HRC to hire a Youth Activities Coordinator so that we can have someone focused on providing our youngest members with fun things to do while they’re at the Club. We just hired Piasha VanTho to be the coordinator and I look forward to seeing what she has to offer HRC children.

Finally, a word about membership growth. Most years at HRC, we lose approximately 70 members due to one reason or another. In the last several years, we have had extraordinary success in adding roughly 125 new members a year for a net addition of approximately 55 members per year. HRC is not at our cap as far as number of memberships, and the Club does rely on the initiation fees to do capital expenditures. However, the Board is concerned about the capacity issues and is evaluating the likelihood of slowing the growth of membership, possibly to include re-establishment of a waiting list for the first time since 2007. More on this in future newsletters.

Leland PuttermanClub President

Sneak Peek

DEPARTMENTSPresident’s Post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Eye On The Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Social . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Food & Beverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

FEATURE

Summer Road TripTake Advantage Of TheseThree Reciprocal ClubsBy Cathy Lassetter

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2012-2013

HRC BoardOf Directors Roni Atnipp - Ex-Officio

Mark BraggRobert Derrick

Cary Dunham - Dining & EntertainmentDavid Fisher - Finance, 2nd VP

Patty Harris - SecretaryAndrew Johnston - 1st VP

Ryan McClearyJohn Meredith - Facilities

Brad Patt - TennisLeland Putterman - President

Kim Richards - FitnessMary SmithBob Stagg

Andrew TowerKaren White

HRC Women’s Association

Executive Board President - Staci Johnson

Parliamentarian - Heidi HedrickSocial Vice President – Nicole ManningTennis Vice President – Denise Dunham

Treasurer - Gayette EicherSecretary - Jamie Alford

NSWCCC - Sue Bramlette & Cathy Lassetter

MSIL 2013 Winning Team - Black Mambas

Joe Baden, Rich Clark, Andy Cloud, Todd Davis (Captain), Waters Davis, Colin Dinney, Duncan Dodds (Captain), Cary Dunham, David Fisher, Bob Harrell, Norm Hoover, Alex Houston, Byrd Larberg, John Leggett, Dan Maguire, Phil Martin, Ryan McKenzie, Keith Page, Clark Reid, Don Richards, Daniel Riner, Steve Riner, Ben Roberts, Paul Schiebl, Albert Schneuwly, Steve Smith, Bert Tabor, Alex White, John Williams, Rob Williams & Jim Whitson

SUMMER ROAD TRIPTake Advantage Of These Three Reciprocal ClubsBy Cathy Lassetter

By virtue of your Houston Racquet Club membership you have access to select private reciprocal clubs. We recommend you contact Cathy Lassetter, Director of Membership before you travel and ask for the details of available facilities at your destination.

Glenmoor Country ClubCanton, OhioGlenmoor Country Club is a Premier Private Club located in Northeast Ohio offering something for everyone. Whether you are an avid golfer, enjoy fine dining or just like to relax by the pool, there is something at Glenmoor for you to enjoy.

Glenmoor has two US Open Deco Turf courts that compliment their four lighted clay courts which make Glenmoor one of the top tennis facilities in that area.

Asheville Racquet ClubAsheville, North CarolinaTwo locations in Asheville make it convenient for you and your family to stay active together. Their facilities are designed to provide you with the best tennis, fitness, golf, soccer and swim in the area. The Asheville Racquet Club Downtown is located on the property of the Crowne Plaza Tennis and Golf Resort and offers tennis, fitness, a 9-Hole Golf Course and Swimming for members and guests of the hotel. Founded in 1974, ARC South was the first major club in WNC to be devoted primarily to tennis. During the four decades since its inception, the Club has played a major role in the game of tennis in the community.

The University ClubSan Francisco, CaliforniaThe University Club of San Francisco is centrally located atop Nob Hill along the cable car lines at Powell & California Street. They are close to the Financial District, Union Square shopping, and two blocks from Chinatown. They offer overnight accommodations, dining & an athletic facility that features tennis courts, squash courts, and workout space.

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Another fiscal year is coming to a close on June 30th and the budget for next year will hopefully have been approved by the Finance Committee and the Board of Directors by the time you read this. We accomplished a lot this past year. Facility improvements included the renovation of the Clubhouse Lobby, Creekside Lounge Banquet Rooms and The Dining Room. We also have a new roof on the Clubhouse, painted its exterior and upgraded the Trophy Room. The expansion of the Kids Club is underway and new lockers for both fitness center locker rooms have been ordered. Ceiling fans were added to one Group Exercise Studio and fans for the second studio will be installed in a few days. In the Grill, the new carpet looks great and the remaining work near the elevator will be completed on June 2nd and 3rd. Finally, with a significant financial contribution made by the HRC Women’s Association, we are able to create green space around the basketball court in order to have room for events planned by our new Youth Activities Coordinator Piasha VanTho.

Piasha will make a huge impact on our kids’ activities and also start laying the groundwork for the return of an HRC Summer Camp next year. For now, look for new programs, events and activities designed to keep the children busy and entertained. A big thank you goes to Tammy Morris for referring Piasha, and to Blake Stovall who will be working directly with Piasha to get activities off the ground quickly.

Congratulations also go to Thomas Cook on the hiring of our new Director of Junior Tennis Development, Chris Bovett. We welcome back popular Pro Jack Brasington as well, and even though these two Professionals need no introduction, please refer to Thomas’ “Prospective” for more information. We are very excited about our newest team members and we hope you are, too.

At our recent Crawfish Boil we had the HPD Mounted Patrol visit and it was an immediate hit. Our Fitness Committee Chair Kim Richards made that happen and we appreciate it. I know the kids did as well. Speaking of Crawfish, Dominic Mandola once again exceeded all expectations by cooking over 1,500 pounds of jumbo mudbugs to be enjoyed by over 300 members. Thank you Dominic and thank you Ragin Cajun.

Over $52,000 was donated to the Cliff Tyree Beautification Initiative last year. Your donations accomplished the following: 1. Development of a Landscape Master Plan2. Upgrades to the landscaping in the front lot and near the Clubhouse entrance3. Additional Crepe Myrtles, Laurel Oaks, Live Oaks and Loblolly Pines4. New St. Augustine grass around the Pavilion, Courts 1&2 and other areas

To wrap things up, Bob Triska and his team are busy getting an additional combination of 40 Loblolly Pines and Oaks planted around the property perimeter to start making up for the drought related tree losses.

EA Photography was asked to come back one more time for those of you who did not have a chance to get your complimentary family portrait taken for inclusion in our Member Recognition Album. Please call them at the number listed on page 2 to set up your appointment and call Jean Northey at extension 115 should you have any questions.

A big “Congratulations” goes to the 12 & Under Division of our HRC Terminetters and their Coach Andy Johnston. The team finished #2 at the Texas Spring State Championships. You make us proud and by the way, what a great looking team! We would also like to express our appreciation to the following members who volunteered their time to coach one of our Junior Tennis Teams this season. They are: Ted Erck (14 and Under Advanced), Tammy Morris (12 and Under Beginners), Mindy Rice (14 and Under Intermediate), and Erik Simpson (10 and Under Intermediate).

Have a great summer!

Thomas PreumlGeneral Manager/COO

CLUB N

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eye on the ballmemb

ership Welcome New Members

ERIN & TRAVIS ARNOLD Her: Senior Associate, The Sterling GroupHis: VP, Municipal Energy Resources Corp.Sponsors: Lynn Murphy,Kathryn & Craig Smyser

NANCY & ROBERT BURFORD His: Attorney, The Burford Law Firm, PCChildren: Zach (21), Jordan (19), Katie (18), Brendan (8)Sponsors: David Bissinger, Jennifer Greer

ROBYN & EMBRY CANTERBURY His: Petroleum Engineer/President,Hibernia ResourcesChildren: Mary Rose (6), Camille (5), Emmy (2)Sponsors: Cindi & Greg Pappas, Carrie & Jeff Knowles

DAVID CISARIK & BRIANNA HAASHis: Municipal Bond Trader, Coastal SecuritiesHer: GM of Manor House/Event Planner, Houstonian HotelChildren: Lindy (10), Hayden (7)

BILLIE & SCOT DAVIS His: Developer/SR Managing Director,Trammel Crow ResidentialHer: Financial Manager, Alvarez and MarsalChildren: Austin (7), Dylan (6), Lauren (3)Sponsors: Susan & Marty Weber, Brian AustinReferral: Joe D. Reed, Sr.

DAGMAR & JOHN EMBREE His: CEO, US Professional Tennis AssociationHer: Market Development, DIRTT Environmental SolutionsChildren: Rae Claire (19), Alexander (17)Sponsors: Mark Meyers, Bootsie Le FeuvreReferral: Meg Smith

KATHRYN & TERRY GREEN His: VP, Gulfside PartnershipChildren: Austin (10)Sponsors: Hershal Ferguson, George BiggsReferral: Susan & Stephen Ferguson

TOM JOVER & KELLY DUNNBIER His: Oil Broker, Tullett PrebonHer: Client Services Manager, Comcast Sports NetSponsors: Denise Janowski, Darin ZanovichReferral: Ben Facker

SHANNON & DEREK MICHAELIS His: Financial Analyst, JVL Advisors, LLCChildren: Justin (6), Levi (5), Lexi (4) Sponsors: Denise Janowski, Shawnna & Kelly Loyd

JOANNA & SCOTT RAYNES His: Attorney/Partner, Werner Ayers, LLPHer: Attorney/Owner, The Raynes Law Firm, PLLCChildren: Sarah Grace (8), Caroline (6), William (2)Sponsors: Wendy Nockholds, Heather Consoli

MARLA & TODD RIEDEL His: Real Estate & Investments/VP, Apex Heritage GroupHer: Physical Therapist, AOKCChildren: Julia (13), Jack (11)Sponsors: Steven Madden, Bob KurtzReferral: Ty Hoffer

DEBORA & JAMES VENDITTO His: VP, Trican Well Service, LTDSponsors: John Smith, John McMillan

JENNIFER & ELLIS WELKER His: Engineer/President, WFMS Inc.Her: Jewelry Designer/Owner, The Golden ThreadChildren: Noah (23 mos), McKenzie (3 mos)Sponsors: Richard Pipkin, Ronald Woliver

TRACY & MIKE WHITTAKER His: Managing Partner – Boxley GroupHer: Boxley GroupChildren: Bryce (7), Courtney (5), Peyton (4) Sponsors: Randy Corson, Bethany Factor

Happy Summer and welcome to our newest members! Be sure and check out our reciprocal clubs when you are traveling this summer. If you want to beat the heat call me about visiting one of the featured clubs in this issue of the Raconteur. I will be happy to send a letter of introduction for you, so please email me before you travel!

Our next New Member- Sponsor Celebration is set for August 8th, so mark your calendars if you

joined the Club since January or sponsored a new member. We will be in a “New York State of Mind” with Scott Graham on the piano and our grand prize to win that infamous trip to the US Open! I look forward to seeing you all around the Club celebrating summer with your families and friends here at the HRC, our home away from home!

Membership News

Cathy LassetterDirector of Membership

Save The Dates!OCTOBER 18 & 19

HRC CupClub Member Guest Tournament

Men’s & Women’s DivisionsFriday Night Exhibition Match & Family Party

Saturday Night Couples Gala featuring the Right On Band!More details to come

Back Row: Andy Johnston, Katherine Johnston, Ben White, Christoph Freund, Jeanette MirelesFront Row: McHaley Ho, Corbin Barrus, Mary Katherine Rice, Gavin Simpson, Thomas Graves

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tennis

tennisCongratulations To Our Winners

Club Singles Championship Winners

Club Singles Championship Winners1. Matt Bain Open Division2. Rafael Herrera Men’s Champion Division3. Mindy Voyles Women’s Champion Division 4. Matthew Dawson Men’s A Division5. Courtney Estensen Walker Women’s A Division6. Brian Krivan Men’s B Division7. Kathryn Smyser Women’s B Division8. Ron Fisher Senior Division

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Cardio Tennis Drill CO-ED B Level & AboveMonday & Thursday 6:30-7:30PMA Level LadiesThursday 9:15-10:30AM B Level & Above Ladies CardioTuesdays 9:15-10:30AM Advanced BeginnersThursday 10:00-11:45AMB Level LadiesFriday 9:15-10:30AMCo-Ed B Level & AboveSaturday 10:00AMScheduling for Cardio Tennis is with Randy Druz (rjdruz@aol.com). The Price Is Right (Free) Drill Sundays 1:00-2:00PMThese are pro rotation drills for adults only. Call the Pro Shop to sign up. Men’s Night Out Wednesdays 6:45-8:00PMJoin Marlon for fundamental oriented drills for “B” level players and up. Beer is provided. $17/person. A Power Hour Tuesdays 6:30PMThis is a 1 hour clinic for “A” level players. Join Randy for shots and interactive situation tennis.Cost depends on the number of people.

Championship Power HourWednesdays 6:00PM with RandyThis is a 1 hour clinic for “Championship” level players. Join in for shots and interactive situation tennis. Cost depends on the number of people.

Kids Night Out In TennisFridays, June 14, July 19 & August 16 6:00-8:00PMKids 5 and up sign up in the Pro Shop. The cost is $20 per member and $25 per non-member.

Summer Tennis CampMonday-Friday, June 3-August 169:00AM-1:00PMTaught by USTA Professionals. Members $250 and non-members $350 per week. Discounts are available for multiple children in the family. Enjoy on-court instruction, fundamentals and team competition. Swimming and lunch is included. No camp the week of July 1st. Forms are available in the Pro Shop. Players must be registered by the Friday of the proceeding week.

July 4th Parent Child Tennis TournamentThursday, July 49:00AM-12:00PMIt will be a Round Robin format. All levels welcome. Sign up in the Pro Shop.

High School Tryouts & WorkoutsTwo Sessions:July 22-26 Session # 1July 29- August 2 Session # 2 4:00-6:00PMSign up your high school students for this intense program to prepare for high school tryouts with court instruction, fitness and point play.

Back to League Workouts (Ladies)Mondays in August9:00-11:00AMThe cost is $30 per session or $100 for all 4 weeks.

Save the Date - HRC CupFriday & Saturday, October 18 & 19Join us for our annual Club Member Guest Tournament. There are both Men’s and Women’s divisions. Enjoy the Friday night Family PartySaturday night Couples Gala featuring the Right On Band. More details to come.

Tennis Events

SummerTennis Camp

Monday-Friday, June 3-August 169:00AM-1:00PM

Taught by USTA ProfessionalsLunch & Swimming Included

Members $250 & Non-members $350

I am very excited to announce Chris Bovett as the new Director of Junior Development. His dedication and commitment to the youth and to tennis is outstanding.

Also, a big welcome back to Jack Brasington! Jack will be back on the courts beginning July 1st and will be involved with our Junior Program as well as available for private lessons.

Summer Tennis Camp begins June 3rd and now is the time to sign up. You can sign up for one week at a time. The camps are taught by the HRC pro staff, all USPTA certified tennis professionals. We focus on stroke fundamentals and the mechanics of the games, while including fun ways to develop and improve. Swimming and lunch are included. Contact the Pro Shop for more details.

See you on the courts!

Prospective

Thomas CookDirector of Tennis

New Director Of Junior DevelopmentChris Bovett has been selected for the Director of Junior Development position at the Houston Racquet Club. He has 40+ years of coaching experience and most recently was the Director at Chancellors Family Center.

Many of his students have gone on to gain World Professional ATP and WTA rankings including #1 World ATP Doubles. His students have contested 37 USTA National Jr. Championship Finals, winning

25. Chris is a member of USPTA Pro-1 Rating since 1972 and a winner of 3 USPTA National Championships. He was ranked #1 in Texas Men’s 40 Singles in 1984-1985, competed in 9 Grand Slam Events (3 Australian Opens, 4 US Opens, 1 Wimbledon, and 1 French Open).

We are very excited about Chris joining the HRC team and working with our youth in the All Star Program which includes ZATS, Champs and Super Champ kids. You may contact the Pro Shop for more information and to get signed up.

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tennis

socialTennis Fun

Ladies Member Guest Tournament

Ladies Member Guest TournamentRacquets & Ritas Tennis TournamentMany thanks to all the ladies who attended our Ladies Member Guest and Racquets & Ritas Tennis Tournaments. Both events boasted large numbers of players and was organized beautifully and a good time was had by all.

Sportsmanship AwardCongratulations Clark Reid!

Mats Wilander ClinicDespite the rainy weather the night before, 20 HRC Members were fortunate to participate in the Mats Wilander Clinics on a recent Sunday morning.1. Left to right: Cameron Lickle, Bill Richter, Cheri Bauch, Denise Roederer, Dayna Erck, Colleen Hagen, Mindy Rice, Julie Page & Mats Wilander2. Gavin Simpson & Mats Wilander3. Mats Wilander, Danny Weingeist, Michael Eagle, Michael Monk, Brad Patt,Mitch Creekmore, Armin Schumacher,Chris Yarbrough, Mike Brunner & Cameron Lickle

Racquets & Ritas Tennis Tournament Sportsmanship Award

Mats Wilander Clinic

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Easter FunThe Houston Racquet Club members were hopping with delight with the thousands of candy-filled eggs at the Children’s Easter Party. The children loved riding on the train, decorating cookies and having their picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Thank you to all the wonderful families who joined in the fun. Thanks also to Chef for the wonderful lunch buffet. You outdid yourself again!

Club Scene

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l socialBridge2nd & 4th Thursday Each Month10:00AM - 2:30PMSponsored by the Women’s AssociationThe first is $10 and the second $5. You do not need a partner. Call Carolyn Keeble at 713.464.0117 for a reservation before the prior Sunday.

Houston Area Inter-Club Bridge Sponsored by the Women’s AssociationThe season begins at HRC on September 27.

3rd ThursdaysJune 20July 186:00PMHosted by the Junior Executive CommitteeCome relax at the end of the day at the Club with friends. Drink specials, great food and a good time. Contact Christina at X125 if you are interested.

Kids’ Movie NightsFridays, June 28 & July 266:30PMComplimentary popcorn and lemonade will be served and a children’s buffet will be available for purchase. Reservations are required.

Father’s Day BrunchSunday, June 1611:00AM-2:00PMGrillFather’s Day is coming up soon, what better way to show dad how much you appreciate him by taking him out for a great lunch! The cost is $21.95 per person. Reservations are required.

BINGOWednesdays 6:00PM Buffet7:00PM BINGO!BallroomCome join in this annual HRC tradition! Enjoy great family fun, delicious food and exciting prizes. No reservations are necessary.

Ladies Who LunchWednesday, June 1212:00PMThe GrillHosted by the Junior Executive CommitteeGrab a friend, meet new people and enjoy a bite to eat. Kids’ Club is available for child care.Contact Cristina Torres at X125 if you are interested.

Poker NightThursday, June 136:30PMHosted by the Junior Executive CommitteeMark your calendar for this night of poker, sports, beer, and bar food! Look forward to a friendly game of Texas Hold’em, while digging into heavy appetizers prepared by Chef Bo. Fun prizes will be awarded to our top winners of the night!

Stages Theater - Patsy ClineSunday, June 235:00PM Dinner & TheaterStages TheaterSponsored by the Senior Activities CommitteeContact Sondra Maxfield at X122 if you are interested.

Senior Road TripMessina Hof WineryMonday, July 19:00AMBryan, TXSponsored by the Senior Activities CommitteeContact Sondra Maxfield at X122 if you are interested.

July 4th CelebrationThursday, July 411:00AM LunchCome celebrate Independence Day at the HRC. Enjoy lunchtime BBQ, pool games, Parent & Child Tennis Tournament and live entertainment.

Skeeters Ball Park OutingSaturday, July 206:05PMSugar LandHosted by the Junior Executive Committee“Take me out to the ball game” this summer and join us for a fun family outing watching minor league baseball while munching on a hot dog! Mark your calendars and support the Sugar Land Skeeters as they face off the Long Island Ducks. Tickets are $12 a person. RSVP to ctorres@houstonracqetclub.com for your tickets!

Senior Road TripBush Library & Lunch at Christopher’s World GrilleThursday, August 19:00AMSponsored by the Senior Executive CommitteeContact Sondra Maxfield at X122 if you are interested.

Back To School Pool BashFriday, August 235:30PMPavilionHosted by the Junior Executive CommitteeBring the family to celebrate the end of summer at the HRC pools before school begins. Enjoy pool games, prizes and food!

Nuclear Power PlantWednesday, September 119:00AMSponsored by the Senior Activities CommitteeContact Sondra Maxfield at X122 if you are interested.

Social Events

Kids Movie Nights Fridays, June 28 & July 26

6:30PMComplimentary Popcorn & Lemonade

Children’s Buffet AvailableReservations Required

3rd ThursdaysThursday, June 20Thursday, July 18

6:00PM

Hosted by theJunior Executive Committee

Drink Specials, Great Food & Good TimeContact Christina at X125

if you are interested.

Crawfish Festival

Club Scene

Thank you to all the members who attended our annual Crawfish Boil. What a great success! We hope everyone enjoyed the Zydeco music and great food. A special thank you to two HRC Members who helped make this day a success. They are Dominic Mandola who assisted the Chef and the Club in preparing the crawfish and to Kim Richards who arranged to have HPD Mounted Patrol here with two horses.

Exhibition MatchThank you to the members who came and watched the Exhibition Match on May 4th. The Match was very entertaining and included exceptional play from some great guys, Matt Bain, Harry Fowler, Tommy Ho, Mike Russell and Graydon Oliver. The HRC ball boys did a fantastic job during the match too!

1. Tommy Ho, Mike Russell, Thomas Cook, Graydon Oliver, Matt Bain & Harry Fowler2. Left to Right: Andrew Jimenez, JJ Edmonds, Peyton Erck, Gavin Simpson, Corbin Barrus, Bryce Dunham3. Harry Fowler & Matt Bain warming up4. Spectators!

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BINGO Wednesdays Evenings

Beginning June 56:00PM Buffet • 7:00PM BINGO

Ballroom

Come join in this annual HRC tradition!Family fun, Delicious Food, Exciting Prizes

Due to the popularity of this eventno reservations are taken.

Club Scene

Ladies Wine DinnerThe Ladies of HRC enjoyed a fine evening in The Dining Room conversing over a delicious combination of spring flavors at our Ladies Wine Dinner.

Bridge NewsHouston Area InterClub Winners

April 111st Place: Carolyn Keeble2nd Place: Diane Goodwin

By Sondra Maxfield

Friends Of CarrieApril 24th found us in The Dining Room listening to HRC member Carrie Woliver review her wonderful book “The Train Stopped in Orange.” What an incredible luncheon and what a delightful speaker! The Dining Room was packed with friends of Carrie who came from as far away as Orange, Texas and as near as the tennis courts of HRC. Chef presented an entirely “orange menu” that was indeed luscious. Our group ate and laughed while in the background was the piano music of Bill Bennett. After Carrie’s talk we had a Q&A session and one of the questions was “How do you begin to write a book?” Carrie answered that she attended a Continuing Education course at Rice which focused on writing nonfiction. We also learned that the most important thing to do at the beginning of writing a book is The Table of Contents. This helps one get organized. Not only was Carrie’s book review jaw dropping good but she closed her talk by singing the beautiful popular love song “You’ll Never Know.” Which just proves that you’ll never know what the next exciting luncheon might be at HRC.

Friends Of RachelSeniors gathered at Brio for a pre-theater dinner before hitting the huge hit at Country Playhouse “The Dixie Swim Club,” directed by our own Rachel Mattox. Not only was the dinner and the conversation wonderful, but the play was fabulous. What talent we have at HRC. Rachel has been directing and acting all her life and her creativity was certainly on display in this wonderful comedy about women who share a beach house each summer, year after year. Senior member Joe Rentz said that as much as he enjoyed Rachel’s play the highlight of the evening was getting to know the other Seniors in the group and hearing their stories. By the time one gets to be a Senior there are a lot of amazing stories to tell and tell we did. Then we raced across the street to Country Playhouse and heard yet another delightful story. What a fun evening for Seniors at HRC.

Seniors Making A Difference

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“The Train Stopped In Orange” Book Review1. Carrie & Ron Woliver2. Kirby Simmons, Nancy Gardiner & Denise Williams3. Laurie Vander Ploeg, Jan Sellers & Carolann Moore

Ladies Who LunchA little food, a choice cocktail, and great conversation are just what the doctor ordered for our Ladies Just Lunch gathering! Join us every second Wednesday of the month at 11:30am and spend some time with other ladies of the Club over lunch in a relaxed setting.

Back To SchoolPool Bash

Friday, August 235:30PMPavilion

Hosted by the Junior Executive CommitteePool, Prizes & Food!

Left to Right: Kathryn Green, Katherine Biggs, Jackie Busa, Sharon Snowden, Bethany Factor, Leah Leggett, Sandy Willmann, Betsy Sanders, Heather Halaska, Vanessa Goebel, Susan Litts, Ginger Sanders.

Top TenThings To Do At HRC This Summer1. BINGO every Wednesday Night in the Ballroom

2. Sign up the kids for Summer Tennis Camp!

3. Support the HRC Manta Ray Swim Team!

4. July 4th Parent/Child Tennis Tournament

5. Dine in The Grill, The Dining Room or Courtside Café

6. Happy Hour in the Creekside Lounge

7. Take a Dip in the Pools

8. Bring the Kids to Movie Night(last Friday of each month)

9. Book Your Holiday Party with the Private Events Office

10. Attend one of the 66 Group Exercise Classes we offer

New Arrival At HRC

REAGAN FORRESTMarch 21Correne & CourtlandLoeffler

1. Bootsie Le Feuvre, Dagmar Embree, Cathy Lassetter & Pat Harris2. Rebecca Gayle, Kimberly Davis & Taylor Darsey3. Elizabeth Hatfield & Lisa Artebury4. Left to Right: Lisa Fleischman, Denise Dunham, Bonny Edwards, Lisa Kroll, Karen McGee, Jennifer Kruse, Pat Sheets, Janet Mc Nulty & Lisa Bender

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Did You Know?Houston Racquet Club is on Facebook with news and pictures from around the Club. We have started doing giveaways only available on Facebook so make sure to like our page and share it with your fellow members! You can also follow us on Twitter @ HRCTennisClub. Our website now offers RSS feeds so you are able to get all of the information you want in one place. In our Tennis section we offer you the latest in both national and international Tennis news. Head over to our Dining section for ‘Food News and Views’. Under Kids Club you will find an RSS feed

that is updated every few hours with new kid friendly, family craft ideas. As a reminder, you can view the fitness group exercise schedule, make reservations for tennis tournaments & events, view and filter the Club Calendar, and view your monthly statement on the website. We encourage you to post pictures of club events under the Club Life section and to update your profile or view the membership directory. A complete list of Reciprocal Clubs can be found under the membership tab as well. Please contact Alison Malone with any questions you have about the website, Facebook or Twitter accounts at 713-464-4811 X126.

fitne

ssculinary & club news

ALISON MALONEDirector of Communications, Manager of the QuarterFRANK REYESFood & Beverage, Team ChampionSUSAN CACERESPro Shop Sales Associate, Team ChampionBERNARD HURLEY (Not Pictured)Executive Chef, Manager of the Quarter

The Club’s Employee Recognition Program highlights those employees within the organization who take initiative and exceed expectations within their job responsibilities.

Employee Recognition

Picture Perfect Memories

With the completionof the renovations in the Clubhouse,

HRC is in demand.To book an event, contact Kellie

at 713.464.4811 X114 or kstuff@houstonracquetclub.com.

WelcomePiasha

Isaac’s Featured Wine:Les Domaniers Rosé Domaine OTT 2011Côtes de Provence Visual: bright, color pale salmon with copper rim and moderate viscosity.Nose: citrus, tangerine, strawberries hints of peach, melon, and apple.Palate: dry, mineral, medium acidity, same fruit aromas follow through the palate. Provence is a wine region in the far-eastern corner of France known for its rose wines and Bouillabaisse (fish soup). The blend of red grapes used in this particular wine are Cinsaut, Grenache, and Syrah. Most Rosé wines start like red wines. The technique usually is the red grapes are de-stemmed, crushed and then placed in a fermenter, but instead of spending two or three weeks with the grapes skins in contact with the juice, the skins are removed after a brief period of few hours or days.

They are the most versatile wines. They are light, medium body but have more delicate flavors on the palate. Enjoy this Rosé wine with grilled salmon, Thai chicken, ham, hamburgers, charcuterie, crispy chips and avocado, BBQ ribs, vegetable plate, and roasted vegetables. Isaac Valdez, Sommelier

Manta RaySummer LeagueMeet Schedule

4:30PMJune 4 - HRC at River Oaks CCJune 6 - Houstonian at HRC

June 11 - Lakeside CC at HRCJune 12 - Team Photo

June 13 - HRC at Forest ClubJune 18 - HRC at The Briar ClubJune 20 - Houston CC at HRC

June 22 - Invitational ChampionshipJune 25 - Banquet 6:00 PM HRC Ballroom

Summer Golf CampTuesdays-Thursdays

June 11-13, 25-27 • July 9-11, 23-259:00AM-12:30PM

Westwood Golf ClubAges 6-18 of all skill levels

Professional golf instruction, lunch & prizes$250/week for HRC members

Reservations 713.774.3011

Father’s DayBrunch

Sunday, June 1611:00AM-2:00PM • Grill

Come Join Us For Brunch!$21.95 Per Person

Reservations Please

Fitness Etiquette HRC Style 1. All Members and Guests must sign in at the Fitness Desk prior to accessing Locker Rooms, Group Exercise Studios and Fitness Equipment areas.

2. Children under twelve (12) are not permitted in the Fitness Center or allowed to participate in Group Exercise Classes. Children between the ages of twelve (12) and fifteen (15) must be supervised by a parent or adult guardian, must have completed the Youth Fitness Certification Program administered by Club fitness staff, and be approved by the Director of Fitness & Pools before they can work out in the Fitness Center or participate in Group Exercise Classes. Children fifteen (15) years of age and older may use the Fitness Center or participate in Group Exercise Classes without a parent of guardian present.

3. Members using the fitness equipment are expected to be considerate of others and not exploit the utilization of the fitness equipment at the expense of others waiting to use the equipment.

4. During peak hours, there will be a 30 minute use limit on all stationary equipment.

5. Please wipe off the machines. Nothing’s quite as gross as sitting down in a puddle of sweat, so grab a towel to wipe off the equipment after you use it. And if you see someone else forget, politely ask them to do the same.

6. Pick up after yourself. Please don’t leave clothes or gym bags lying around the equipment, and make sure to re-rack weights after you use them. Just think: The person after you probably won’t be nearly strong enough to handle them.

7. Share. “If you see somebody using something you’d like, ask them if you can use it” or set up a rotation.

8. Audible telephone conversations when participating in a class in the Fitness Center, or when using the machines or other equipment is not allowed. The Director of Fitness & Pools and/or the General Manager/COO and Club staff shall deal with violations of this rule as deemed appropriate.

9. Please don’t wear street shoes. The sand and grit your shoes pick up outside can end up in the treadmills, which eventually results in another Out of Order Sign. We recommend changing into a pair of shoes that you only wear at the gym.

Fitness News

Blake StovallDirector of Fitness & Pools

My name is Pia-Alexandra VanTho and I am the new Youth Activities Coordinator. I am best known by my nickname Piasha. I know you are all

wondering the origin. Both my parents are from Vietnam and came over to the United States in 1975. I was born and raised in Houston, Texas.

The doors of sports were opened to me at a young age. I found my niche in volleyball, basketball, and tennis and played throughout high school at Episcopal High School. I then went on to play Division II Tennis under Coach Russell Stern at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. In 2007, I helped the team win the Heartland Conference Championship. After college my passion for tennis continued. Still competitively playing, during last summer USTA tennis season, my 4.5 Women’s and 9.0 Mix team represented our city at the National Championship in Tucson, Arizona. We took home the Mix Championship.

From 2008-present I have been working numerous youth programs in the Greater Houston Area. The last few years, I have had the privilege of working at The Kinkaid School. There, I coached Middle School and High School Sports such as Volleyball, Soccer, and Tennis.

My goal for the HRC is to provide a fun supervised environment with a wide variety of activities for the youth to participate in. I am honored to be able to work in such a wonderful community.

14 | raconteur June & July 2013 | 15

Houston Racquet Club10709 Memorial DriveHouston, TX 77024713.464.4811houstonracquetclub.com

PARENT & CHILDTENNIS TOURNAMENT9:00AM-12:00PMAll LevelsRound Robin FormatBBQ LUNCH11:00AM LunchBBQ Chicken, Brisket, Burgers,Beans, Salads & DessertsPool Games & Live Music

JULY 4THCELEBRATION