TRENDS - Polo Club of Boca Raton
Transcription
TRENDS - Polo Club of Boca Raton
TRENDS POLO CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF TENNIS + SANCTUARY STATUS Polo’s Eco-Friendly Golf Courses Message from CONTENTS Brett Morris LETTERS Ladies and Gentlemen, With the completion of our beautifully renovated clubhouse, we have begun a new era at The Polo Club. Our facilities are now some of the finest in South Florida and the buzz is getting out that Polo is the place to be! The past few months have been a whirlwind of events and activities, kicking off with our Grand Reopening Celebration. Over 2,500 Members turned out to witness the unveiling of your new Club. With different food and entertainment in each venue, there was something for everyone to enjoy. It was fantastic to see everyone having such a good time and the positive feedback we received was truly overwhelming. To view video footage of the event, please visit PoloClub.net (on the Public side and go to the Activities section). On the heels of our Grand Opening Celebration was the Third Annual Street Fair. We moved the event to the lower parking lot to provide more rides, entertainment, food and fun than ever before, and had over 2,300 people walk through the gates. With everyone’s friends and family in town, it was the perfect end to the holidays. This year, alongside our regularly-scheduled cultural excursions, social events, and comedy nights, we have added some new items to the entertainment calendar. In Concert with Darlene Love kicked things off, and in April we will be presenting Polo’s inaugural Music on the Green, where Members s will be able to sit back and enjoy The Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County under the stars. It promises to be a fantastic evening. I am also excited to announce that we will be hosting High Holidays at the Club later in the year. While the Member experience has been elevated by the renovation, there are still other aspects of our community which need to be addressed. As many of you are aware, the traffic flow configuration at the Lower Valet can be challenging at times. Congestion in all lanes, along with on-street parking, taxes the best efforts of our valet staff and delays the arrival and departure of Members and guests coming to the Clubhouse. In addition, the increasing popularity of card playing strains the seating capacity of the Ladies’ Card Room during season. This spring we will start the planning process to address these issues. On behalf of the management team and staff, we would like to thank you for your incredible support in all of our venues this season. It’s a pleasure to serve you and we look forward to seeing you around the club. For your next big event, allow us to exceed your expectations. Call Jennifer Bitner Capuano, Director of Catering 561-995-1110 or email [email protected] 1 Message from the GM/COO 52 In the Know AT POLO 2-3 Community Relations 4 Member Spotlight 27 Get Involved 29 Social Events 30-31 Cultural Events 53 Welcome New Members POLO GOLF 7 Golf Technology 14 Scores & Feats 15 Upcoming Golf Events POLO TENNIS 20-25 Diamond 30th Anniversary SPA & FITNESS 38-39 Staying Fit 40 Featured Fitness Classes 41 Spa & Wellness SAVOR 32 Chef Showdown 34-35 Fine Wine SPECIAL INTEREST 16-17 Audubon Recognition 33 Employee Spotlight 36-37 Card Sharp 49 Forging Friendships Editor-In-Chief Wendy Ledwitz Creative Director Diane Dragone Managing Editor Lesley Marlo Graphic Designers Gary Tang & Valerie Sebring Contributing Writers Tim Paulison, Lesley Marlo, Xahej Bajipura Photography Dana Moore, Peter Lorber, David Matthewman Warmest regards, Brett Morris, General Manager / COO PoloClub.net | Spring 2015 1 Copyright © 2015 by The Polo Club of Boca Raton Property Owners’ Association, Inc. All rights reserved. The contents of this magazine, including, but not limited to, text, graphics and icons, are copyrighted materials owned or controlled by The Polo Club of Boca Raton and contain The Polo Club of Boca Raton name, trademarks, service marks and trade names. Photographs, text, graphics, concepts or any content may NOT be used without the express written consent of The Polo Club of Boca Raton. Mention that you are a Polo Club Member and receive special offers from our community partners. For a complete list of our VIP program partners, please visit the Administration desk. MARRIOTT RENAISSANCE HILTON Marriott at Boca Center 5150 Town Ctr. Circle, Boca Raton, Florida 33486 888-888-3780. Book online with code X6B Renaissance Boca Raton Hotel 2000 NW 19th Street, Boca Raton FL, 33431 800-321-0472. Book online with code X6B. Hilton Hotel 7920 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33434 561-852-4024. Book online with ID 1365314. PRIDE AC & APPLIANCE A1A LIMO DRY CLEANING PROGRAM Dry Clean Express of Boca 561-445-1163 10% discount. Free pick-up and delivery. Bob Leff (2nd term) Marcia Fishbein Polo Club raised more than $7,300 for the Cards for Kids Program to benefit Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services. We would like to extend special thanks to all of the Polo Club Members who generously contributed to this special cause. The donations help to purchase sneakers, clothes and other essential items for families that are having difficult times. If you have questions, please call Bob Newman at (561) 241-1472. If you volunteer outside of the Club, we would like to show our appreciation for your services. The Community Relations Committee invites you to attend their 11th Annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon on Monday, March 30th. Seating is limited, so please sign up at the Administration front desk to register. Allan Abrams Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Cards for Kids A1A Airport & Limousine Service 561-622-2222 10% discount on service. Polo welcomes our newly elected Board of Governors! 2 Relations Pride Air Conditioning & Appliance 1-800-955-1086 6% discount on annual home service contracts. boardofgovernors updates Exiting Board of Governors Jerry Zusel, Elaine Abrams and Michael Noller were thanked for their service. Community VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION LUNCHEON Sharing Memorable Moments On February 3rd, the Community Relations Committee, headed by Diane Klein, organized and escorted over 20 Polo Members to Pine Grove Elementary School in Delray Beach to read to the children. The kindergarten students each received a gift bag with crayons, a coloring book, and a grade-level book to take home as a special gift. “The children loved the individual attention and the Polo Club readers were thrilled with the experience of giving back,” said Roni Brockman, Chairperson of Community Relations. “The teachers, Co-Chair Nate Miller, and I had tears in our eyes as we observed the enthusiastic interaction.” Shelly Pilchik said, “What a fabulous morning! The children were fantastic. I can easily say that the children gave me a very special gift – the joy of enriching a child’s life. Thank you Diane, for making all of the arrangements, and please count me in on other such events.” PoloClub.net 3 Member Spotlight Community Contributions BY TIM PAULISON P olo Club members Marilyn and William Bresman were recently awarded the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Living and Giving Award for nearly five decades of dedicated support. The couple was called into action in 1966, after their eight-year-old daughter Jill was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. In 1970, when the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) was formed, the Bresmans spearheaded the organization’s fundraising efforts in New Jersey. Nearly 50 years later, the couple’s efforts show no signs of slowing. Each year they raise an average of $25,000 for One Walk, formerly known as the JDRF Boca Walk to Cure Diabetes. Polo Club Members Honored in Their Fight Against Type 1 Diabetes Record-breaking Luncheon On January 19th, more than $230,000 was raised for the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center when a record 550 Polo Pap Corps Members and their guests gathered at the Club for the Annual Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research luncheon. Arnold and Barbara Cohen were honored for their generosity and continued service, and event Chairwoman Iris Schaum cited the Cohens as “true philanthropists.” The luncheon, which was themed “Putting on the Ritz” and included a lobster entree and fashion show by Israeli-born designer Elie Tahari, helped raise awareness and muchneeded funding to further cancer research efforts at Sylvester. The annual fundraising gala, at which the Bresmans were honored, was held February 7th at Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa. The black tie affair included silent and live auctions and raised a total of over $300,000 to benefit those impacted by Type 1 Diabetes. Since its inception, JDRF has raised more than $1.7 billion for diabetes research and education. HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Help in the fight against Type 1 diabetes. On March 28, the Bresmans will participate in the 2015 JDRF One Walk in Boca Raton. To donate to their team and help find a cure, please make checks payable to JDRF, and mail them to Marilyn and Bill Bresman, 17469 Via Capri, Boca Raton, FL 33496. Donations are fully tax-deductible. 4 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE PoloClub.net 5 Polo familyjunior golftournament HIGH-TECH GOLF CONTINUES AT POLO BY TOM HAASE, DIRECTOR OF GOLF A lways at the forefront of technology, The Polo Club first brought GPS golf yardage and messaging to South Florida in 2001. Polo members enjoyed the convenience of yardage information, contact with the pro shop, and pace of play status. Time of golf rounds changed immediately from around five hours to a little over four hours as the system identified and remedied bottlenecks. The system was so well received that, when playing other courses, our golfers found themselves constantly looking up to an empty space on the cart in search of yardage information. The fun got better mid-February when our new Visage™ GPS was installed on all 110 fleet carts as well as the nearly 300 member-owned golf carts. The Visage™ GPS system replaces the existing 5-inch, black and white, text-only screen with an interactive, full-color, high-definition, 10-inch touch screen. At the start of each hole, the players will see a bird’s eye view of the layout, static yardages, handicap information, and par. As the cart progresses, the yardage to the hole is tracked and displayed. Distances to lay up or carry points can also be obtained by simply touching that spot on the screen. February 18th | A fun-filled day of golf, family bonding and great food. 6 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Other great features include tee-shot distance, pace of play tracking, real-time messaging to and from the pro shop, weather alerts, 911 emergency, the ability to slow fleet carts down in dangerous traffic areas, in-house promotions and advertising, and, in the near future, food and beverage ordering. By adopting innovative products like Club Car’s Visage™ GPS system, The Polo Club once again furthers its mission to continually enhance the golf experience for our Members and their guests. Golf Picture at Top: The new VisageTM GPS system, an interactive, full-color, HD 10" touch screen. GREAT FEATURES: TEE-SHOT DISTANCE PACE-OF-PLAY TRACKING REAL-TIME MESSAGING WEATHER ALERTS 911 EMERGENCY IN-HOUSE PROMOTIONS F&B ORDERING PoloClub.net 7 ladies9hole ladies18hole December 9th | A great time was had by all of the ladies at the 18 hole opening day luncheon. January 7th | The ladies enjoyed a wonderful BBQ luncheon in the newly renovated courtyard after a fun day of playing 9 holes. 8 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE PoloClub.net 9 men’s9hole men’s18hole December 18th | Friendly competition and camaraderie are always a part of the men's 18 hole league. December 18th | It's always a great time to meet up with new groups at the men's 9 hole luncheon. 10 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE PoloClub.net 11 men’s18hole memberguest ladies18hole memberguest January 15th | The men had a spectacular day of golf, all-day dining, and cocktails on the terrace with their guests. 12 Spring 2015 February 3rd | Everyone celebrated with a great day of golf and dressing-to-impress with the theme “Golf is a Holiday.” The Lucky Leprechauns (right) won for best dressed. Polo Golf MARCH 1, 2015 (Sunday) 9 & Dine MARCH 4, 2015 (Wednesday) 9 Hole Ladies Assoc. Charity Day MARCH 10 - 15, 2015 Member/Member MARCH 10 & 12, 2015 (Tues. & Thurs.) Ladies’ Division (Rounds 1-4) May you live long enough to shoot your Age! Well, that might be a goal for many golfers, but Polo Member Lew Lifton accomplished even more, shooting below his age. “I have been playing golf since I was 16 years old and the most memorable game – even though I have had 3 holes in one – was shooting 6 shots under my age.” MARCH 13 & 14, 2015 (Fri. & Sat.) Men’s Division (Rounds 1-4) MARCH 15, 2015 (Sunday) Men’s & Ladies’ Division (Final Round) LEW IS 83 YEARS OLD & SHOT A 77 IN SEPTEMBER MARCH 17, 2015 (Tuesday) Play for Pink Fundraiser MARCH 22, 2015 (Sunday) Mixed Couples Member/Guest MARCH 23 - 29, 2015 (Monday through Sunday) Club Championship Week APRIL 19, 2015 (Sunday) Member/Staff Celebration MAY 24, 2015 (Sunday) Mixed Foursomes “Memorial Day” UPCOMING GOLF EVENTS Golf Shoppe pic GREAT SCORES & FEATS NOVEMBER HOLE-IN-ONE: 11/22, Denny Reyhons, EQ 3 POLO CLUB DECEMBER HOLE-IN-ONE: 12/8, Mark David, EQ 3, 6 iron, 150 yds. 12/23, S tanley Levy, EQ 3, 7, 130 yds. 12/27, Burt Singer, Club 4 12/31, Ted Wolk, Club 10, Driver, 130 yds. BIRDIES: 12/2, Judy Bell, EQ 3 12/9, Arlene Kasner, Club 2 12/15, Steve Steinman, Club 16 14 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE 12/16, Myra Balley, EQ 3 12/16, Andrea Gertz, EQ 15 12/17, Karen Weinberg, Club 10, 2 foot putt JANUARY EAGLES: 1/12, Harold Somer, Club 3 BIRDIES: 1/16, Linda Beerman, EQ 3 OTHER NOTABLE FEAT: 1/9, Donald Rosuck, EQ, shot his age, 75 (witnessed by Jim Rubin) PoloClub.net 15 < GRACKLE Polo Club Receives (Another) National Recognition AUDUBON INTERNATIONAL GRANTS SANCTUARY STATUS TO THE POLO CLUB’S ECO-FRIENDLY GOLF COURSES BY LESLEY MARLO AND TIM PAULISON You may have noticed a few extra birdies and perhaps an eagle or two out on the fairways these days. Golfers at The Polo Club are now playing on two of the most recent courses to be certified as Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries by Audubon International, a not-for-profit organization that promotes sustainable natural resource management practices and (through rigorous certification processes) publically recognizes organizations that employ sound environmental stewardship. OSPREY and green, and implemented a nutrient management program to reduce runoff pollution. The positive impact of these efforts extend well beyond our gates. “Responsibly maintained golf courses like The Polo Club’s act as filters, creating storm water runoff that is actually cleaner than the waterways it flows into,” says Mike Hamilton, who is also a founder of Sustainability International, a company that works with communities to develop environmental programs. IBIS To this extent, The Polo Club is improving water quality in Palm Beach County and creating homes for countless species of local wildlife, all while keeping our community beautiful and active. As a result, residents can expect to see more native bird species around the golf courses, common grounds, and their own back yards, along with migratory birds passing through South Florida. After more than two years of painstaking work and careful preparation by Director of Golf Course Maintenance, John Gallagher, and his 50-person team, our Club Course and Equestrian Course will join the ranks of the most environmentally-conscious and -friendly golf courses in the world. “I had wanted to institute this program when I came to The Polo Club six years ago,” says John. “But we really got traction in the past two with the help of Todd Miller from Golf Safety and Mike Hamilton from Golf BMP Solutions.” John also credits Brett Morris and the Green Committee, plus Chairman Barry Feinstein and Club President Stanley Goldberg for their support and stamp of approval necessary to pursue the certification. CHARTING THE COURSE The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses recognizes golf courses that implement and document an environmental management plan which addresses wildlife and habitat management; chemical use reduction and safety; and water conservation and quality management. The Polo Club’s plan defines these programs in meticulous detail, even addressing items most of us take for 16 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE CORMORANT granted, like optimal mowing practices that not only impact play but also help stave off excessive use of pesticides. Strategies to enhance water quality are a critical part of the plan and involve, among other things, vegetation buffer zones, no fertilizer zones within 10 feet of water bodies, and water aeration, which introduces oxygen into the water. RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER BIRD’S EYE VIEWS Of course, Audubon International’s primary focus is on wildlife and how golf courses can become more friendly habitats. With this goal in mind, John put together a 5-year strategy for increasing wildlife habitats at The Polo Club, including the installation of nearly 30 birdhouses on and around the courses. To accomplish this, an extensive inventory was taken of the club’s flora and fauna. This meant accounting for every fern, flower, insect, and animal spotted on the property. In order to attract, sustain, and enhance wildlife on the property, the four essential components — food, water, cover, and space — are considered for each and every species. But first, the resident species must be identified. The Polo Club has always been committed to improving the lifestyles of its residents, and we are doing more than ever to help improve our environment as well. As an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, we have reduced usage of chemical pesticides while keeping fairways lush ECO-LOGICAL “With the amount of work that went into getting this certification and the dedication that we all have, there’s no doubt < WOODSTORK that we are stewards of the golf course and stewards of the land,” says John. “I think that’s what drives us to do what we do.” The Timothy Freelanddesigned Championship courses, finest amenities, and state-of-the-art innovations available, in conjunction with the Audubon certification, further reinforces The Polo Club’s reputation for providing an unparalleled golf experience to our Members and guests. Chuck Asarnow Dr. Alan Lieberman Get FBI lecture INVOLVED! Looking to have a little fun? Want to try something new? Here are some ideas, along with contact information that you might find helpful. Please call the numbers listed to find out what other activities we have going on here at The Polo Club or check our flyer boxes in the Administration hallway. FBI Miami Citizens Academy Association presented a program about the missions, priorities, and organization of the FBI, including an overview of counterespionage. READY TO WORK OUT? CARDS & GAMES MIGHT BE FUN! We have plenty of fitness classes available and a wonderful gym with the latest equipment. We also have 25 fitness trainers on staff who can create a custom workout for you. Fitness Center 561-995-1244 Bridge, Canasta, Mah Jongg, Gin, Poker, Chess, Pan, Pinochle, and Scrabble… we have it all! We also offer lessons to help get you started. Even if you already know how to play, we can help you get into a game. Card Room Manager 561-912-1025 TENNIS ANYONE? DO YOU LIKE TO HELP OTHERS? We offer private and group lessons for players of all levels. We even have a junior tennis program for the kids! Tennis & Resort Shoppe 561-995-1260 HOW ABOUT GOLF? Art workshop with Chris Burlini It’s never too late to learn how to play. Our professional golf staff can help you get started or sharpen your existing skills. We also have a junior golf program for the kids! The Golf Shoppe 561-995-1150 WHAT CAN KIDS DO? We have a wet play area, a kiddie pool, and offer really fun activities in our Children’s Activity Center and Sport’s Court. We even have a Teen Center equipped with video games. Children’s Activity Center 561-995-1100 DO YOU LIKE TO BRAINSTORM & PARTICIPATE IN MEANINGFUL DISCUSSIONS? We have a Polo Discussion Group designed to keep you stimulated and sharp on topics of your choice. Dolores Plaxen at 561-367-3588 We have a Community Relations Committee that loves to help out in the area. Even if you don’t have a lot of time to give, there are opportunities for everyone to participate. Front Desk 561-995-1200 JOIN SOME FELLOW BOOKWORMS! You don’t have to watch Oprah reruns to get good insight and analyses on great reads. Joining the Polo Book Club is a great way to meet others who share your interests. Bobbie Devin 561-241-6549 LIKE TO REEL THEM IN? Consider joining the Fishing Club. Meet up with other fishing enthusiasts to share tips and techniques. They even host a fishing rodeo every year! Harve Stein 561-241-7716 BILLIARDS ANYONE? You don’t have to be a pool shark to play, but you can definitely play some great games with our Billiards League Members. Richie Isaacson 781-254-5194 FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION Remember to check out our internal TV stations: Channels 63 and 95 18 Spring 2015 PoloClub.net 27 upcoming socialevents SINGLES Mix & Mingle INTERCLUB SINGLES MIX & MINGLE WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 2015 Meet other country club singles in your area. Join us for a buffet dinner, cocktails, and live music. Reservations now open. “JERSEY BOYS” DINE & DANCE WHEN: Tuesday, March 17, 2015 & Wednesday, March 18, 2015 From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Polo presents an evening inspired by Frankie Valli and the legendary Four Seasons! social events Reservations now open. ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| MUSIC ON THE GREEN WHEN: Sunday, April 12, 2015 Improv Night Polo’s first outdoor concert on the Driving Range. We were recently joined by comedians Chris Monte and Joey Kola. 28 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Reservations open March 2nd. In Concert FAREWELL POOL PARTY We were entertained by the fabulous and talented Darlene Love. WHEN: Friday, April 24, 2015 End the season with a sizzle! Socialize and connect with friends while enjoying sensational entertainment, food, and unique Polo surprises. An event not to be missed! Reservations open March 13th. PoloClub.net 29 upcoming AFTERNOON LECTURE | Jan Kasoff cultural events WHEN: Tuesday, March 17th, 4:00 p.m. in Studio 1 (Spa area) PRICE: No Charge “Behind the Scenes at Saturday Night Live and NBC” Former SNL cameraman covering the history of the show and production with on air videos. Sign up is required, as seating is limited. PEREZ MUSEUM WHEN: Thursday, March 19th, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Bus departs at 8:30 a.m. sharp!) WICK THEATRE | “Man of La Mancha” PRICE: $75 per person, lunch included An architectural happening, plus a visit to a Fort Lauderdale gallery. WHEN: Sunday, March 1st, 2:00 p.m. PRICE: $52 per person The Club is not providing transportation to this sold out event. Sign up at Club Administration now. DREYFOOS SCHOOL OF THE ARTS “Thoroughly Modern Millie” WHEN: Sunday, March 8th, Show begins at 2:00 p.m. PRICE: $25 per person. Transportation not included. Musical performed by the talented Dreyfoos School of the Arts’ Students. Sign up at Club Administration. CHEF DEMO WHEN: Monday, March 23rd, 1:00-3:00 p.m. PRICE: $35 per person Executive Chef Michael Schenk and his talented Sous Chefs demonstrate their cooking skills for you to enjoy. Reservations now open. Reservations now open. SHOAH A Day of Remembrance WHEN: Thursday, March 26th, 7:00 p.m. in The Laurels LECTURES SERIES | “POLO LECTURES 2015” PHILIP LETO MARGARET HOOVER WHEN: Tuesday, March 10th, 7:30 p.m. WHEN: Tuesday, March 24th, 7:30 p.m. PRICE: $25 per person “Expectations for the Rising Economies of the Developing Countries” PRICE: $25 per person CNN Political Commentator “Politics and the Media” PRICE: No Charge Holocaust survivors relate life experiences on this evening of reflection. Poetry, music, and films will accompany this program. Sign up required at Club Administration now. POLO ART SHOW 2015 WHEN: Monday, March 30th, 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. & Tuesday, March 31st, 5:00 - 8:30 p.m. in The Laurels PRICE: No Charge This 2015 art show features two evenings to enjoy our Members’ outstanding artwork. The evening includes music and wine. Sign up at Club Administration now. POLO LUNCH AND LEARN Exciting New Event! WHEN: Thursday, March 12th, 10:45 a.m. 30 PRICE: $45 per person Enjoy a captivating performance by entertainer Barbara Rinella, followed by a delicious Polo lunch. Don't miss this engaging event! Spring 2015 Reservations now open. FAIRCHILD GARDENS WHEN: Friday, April 10th, 8:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Bus departs at 8:45 a.m. sharp) PRICE: $70 per person, including lunch at the Gardens. Visit one of the best tropical botanic gardens in the world! Sign up at Club Administration beginning March 13th. Savor Polo Employee Spotlight PARTY OF ONE... BY TIM PAULISON CHEF SHOWDOWN 2015 BY LESLEY MARLO O n February 3rd, Polo Club Executive Chef Michael Schenk competed in the 4th Annual Country Club Chef Showdown to benefit Hospice of Palm Beach County and Hospice by the Sea Foundations, hosted at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton. In the iron-chef event, contestants from the top country clubs in southern Palm Beach County competed for the title “Best Country Club Chef” by creating and preparing an original dish using the same main ingredient. This year’s ingredient was corn. True to form, Chef Michael wowed gala attendees and judges alike with five signature dishes: Deconstructed Mahi Tamal, Cachapa (a savory corn pancake), Creamy Corn Coulis, Arepas, and refreshing Corn Ceviche. The panel of judges included some of South Florida’s most notable food and wine enthusiasts, including Virginia Philip, Master Sommelier at The Breakers, Palm Beach; Marie Speed, group editor, Boca Raton and Edibles magazines; Chef Tim Lipman, Owner of Coolinary Café; Stephanie Miskew, Certified Sommelier at The Glamorous Gourmet & Wine Atelier, along with Chef Lindsay Autry, a Top Chef Texas finalist, Katherine Barnhart, Private Wealth Advisor at BB&T, and Nan Chisholm, Independent Fine Art Appraiser & Dealer for Antiques Roadshow (PBS). Chris Farrell, Meteorologist at CBS12 was Master of Ceremonies, keeping the crowd entertained and informed as the chefs whipped up their culinary masterpieces. 32 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Y ou may not know Andrew, but he knows you. “I know almost every Member here by voice, but most of them I wouldn’t recognize if we passed each other in the main corridor,” he said. ”It’s always fun to finally meet a Member face to face whose voice I’ve become so familiar with after years of talking on the phone.” As reservations coordinator at The Polo Club, Andrew's is most often the voice you hear on the other end of the line, booking your show tickets, confirming your dining reservations, or trying politely to make suggestions when an event or restaurant is full. “That’s the part of my job I dislike the most,” says Andrew, “saying no to Members when something isn’t available. That’s why I always try my best to offer an alternate seating arrangement, time, or restaurant whenever possible.” Accommodating Members’ wishes has long been his area of expertise. Fiedelman came to The Polo Club in 2006 after years at another country club as a supervisor, waiter, and bartender. Since then, he has been the man behind the voice, keeping our reservations system running smoothly and handling Members’ dining and entertainment requests. According to him, “It’s not always easy.” While there is no shortage of activities going on at The Polo Club, popular events tend to fill up quickly. When a Member’s first choice cannot be accommodated, he says, “It’s my job to find something they’ll be equally happy with.” And without missing a beat, he reminds, “Reservations for all meals and events open six weeks in advance, and Members are encouraged to make reservations as far in advance as possible.” Andrew Fiedelman Some Helpful Tips: PLAN AHEAD Reservations for all meals and events open six weeks in advance, and Members are encouraged to make reservations as far in advance as possible. KNOW WHEN TO CALL IN & BE FLEXIBLE Have all your information ready and make sure everyone in your party is included and aware of the reservations being made to avoid double booking. It's a good idea to have alternate dates or times in mind. RESERVATIONS: 561-995-1105 PoloClub.net 33 Polo Dining Living the Fine WINE Life BY TIM PAULISON C rown Room diners, prepare to be wowed. As part of the recent renovation, The Polo Club has installed a towering wall-length, refrigerated wine case to store and showcase our expanding wine selection. The “wine wall,” as it is affectionately known, is the brainchild of bar manager Kim Fonacier and is the latest in his efforts to elevate the club’s wine selection. “When I came to The Polo Club two and a half years ago,” says Kim, “the wine selection was quite limited.” In fact, The Crown Room at the time only had two small wine coolers that each held about 100 bottles. The wine wall, on the other hand, can house about 1,000 bottles with hundreds of those viewable through the illuminated display, making it as much an aesthetic addition to The Crown Room as it is a functional one. “It certainly enhances the room,” says Kim. For Kim, however, it’s not just about the ability to store more wine at precisely the ideal temperature of 55°F. It’s also about variety and offering unique wines not found in mainstream stores. As he puts it, he doesn’t want to stock “the same wines you can pick up at Publix or Walgreens.” This has led to a wine list featuring boutique wines from all over the world — from California to South America, and from Austria to Australia. Currently, The Polo Club’s four restaurants boast a wine list of 147 vintages, and that list is expanding thanks in part to Polo Members themselves. Another of Fonacier’s initiatives is the monthly wine tasting club, Polo Vino. Each month, Fonacier selects five or six wines centered on a common theme. A speaker is invited in to tell Members about the wines, and Polo Club’s executive chef, Michael Schenk, provides hors d’oeuvres specifically chosen to pair with the wines being sampled. At the end of the evening, Members are asked to fill out questionnaires evaluating the wines they’ve sampled. The feedback helps determine which wines to offer in the restaurants. Fonacier is very keen on getting the Members involved. After all, as he puts it, “The Club is an extension of their home.” Pairing the PERFECT WINE For more information on Polo Vino events, Members can view the monthly Food & Beverage calendar located in the flyer boxes and on PoloClub.net Wondering which wine to have with dinner? Let bar manager Kim Fonacier offer his favorite pairings: WINNERS CIRCLE Eat: Tuna & Hamachi Tartar | Drink: Saint M Riesling STEEPLECHASE Eat: Mediterranean Bronzini | Drink: Ferrari Carano Fume Blanc AN AMERICAN BISTRO Eat: Craft “Hand Pressed” Beef Burger | Drink: Kunde Zinfandel THE CROWN ROOM Eat: Bone-In Cowboy Rib Eye with Demi Port Glaze Drink: Sterling Cabernet PoloClub.net 35 CARD SHARP E V E R Y D AY More than 700 men and women tone their mental fitness and develop friendships in the Men’s and Ladies’ Card Rooms, the largest in Southeast Florida. EVE RY WE E K Schachinger introduces new and longtime Members to other players with the similar playing skills. EVE RY YEAR Up to 500 players of all levels take lessons to improve their game, meet other players and to reconnect. BY XAHE J BA JIPURA DID YOU KNOW THAT PLAYING CARDS CAN IMPROVE MEMORY, CONCENTRATION, AND PROBLEM-SOLVING FOR LIVING A FULL, JOYOUS LIFE? According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy aging has as much to do with staying mentally active and socializing regularly as it does with physical exercise and eating right. Social activities that are also mentally stimulating help ward off depression, lower stress, and stave off memory loss. Studies point specifically to card games as brain, blood, and immune boosting. Research compiled by Berkeley professor of anatomy, Dr. Marian Diamond, found that playing bridge stimulates an area of the brain that increases the production of white blood cells, thereby strengthening one’s immune system. “Bridge is very calculated and stimulates creativity and problem-solving,” concurs Polo Club card room manager Mio Schachinger. “Before you lose your brain power, use it.” “You are constantly exercising your brain power when communicating and cooperating with your partner or interacting with opponents,” says Mio. Over the past fourteen years, she has observed that, apart from the many health benefits of playing, there’s a definite social advantage. “There’s a special camaraderie among card players that develops from the social setting and 36 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE the game’s emphasis on teamwork, ethics, and sportsmanship,” explains Schachinger. A Polo resident for twenty five years, Anita Hoffer understands the impact cards has had on her life. Hoffer has been playing bridge for over 40 years, more seriously since she retired. She appreciates the social interaction and the wonderful antidote it provides for any and all problems and also feels that playing hones her mental abilities. “While being challenged at the bridge table, all personal and outside world problems disappear since you have to put all your concentration in the cards,” she says. Anita enjoys playing with her husband at the bridge clubs and everywhere they travel. “Playing cards is so healthy for you. It’s like a medicine. You are so enthralled with the cards, you forget all of your problems.” Last season, Mio estimates over 200 new and longtime Members tried their first hand at learning a new card game in The Polo Club card rooms, picking up a new hobby and, as a result, making new friends. One of these new players is self-proclaimed “gym rat” Claire Best, who spends two hours physically working out and also understands the value of mental workouts. She calls playing cards being, which makes you feel less alone and less sorry “brain food” and “the senior mind gym.” “I am sharper, for yourself. alert, and think more strategically in my daily activi“Every day is not just another depressing or boring ties. You have to be very focused,” says Best, who day,” she adds. “It’s exciting to look forward to. There started with Canasta and never looked back. The is joy and fulfillment in learning something new every game requires memorization and good concentratime you play. When you have a different hand, you tion, and with practice, will increase have to strategize that hand. It’s not both skill sets, Best points out. the same old, same old. You want to In addition, she no longer feels be better than the other person, betHABITS OF HIGHLY ter in life, in everything you do, and lonely in a crowded card room. After SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE: in your decisions,” says Best. declining to join for eight years, Mio In the Men’s Card Room, the stories convinced Claire to try a hand. She Noted players reportedly include Bill Clinton, Jack are much the same. Playing cards took lessons to play Canasta, which Nicholson, Steve Martin, isn’t just about keeping sharp for she says made a “marked difference Winston Churchill, Bill the guys either. When the topic of in her everyday relationships and Gates, and Wall Street camaraderie comes up, Seymour Horoconnections with other women.” The investors who play to take witz gestures to the familiar group formerly introverted Best can now their minds off pressureof friends sitting around the poker be seen laughing and conversing filled days. table and says, “We have it here.” over dinner with a table full of Canasta friends. “Today I do more than This is hardly an understatement, considering that the group has played cards together smile and say ‘Good afternoon’ in passing. I genuinely bond with residents who are supportive and share exfor 12 years. Of course, that kind of longevity at the periences. We’ve become a sort of family.” tables with the same people can lead to another motivation to keep coming back, as Mr. Horowitz points For surviving spouses or divorcees living alone, Best out, “I’m trying to recoup my losses.” says, “the intimacy and closeness of female companionship provides for a better sense of all around well- PoloClub.net 37 Staying Fit BELOW TRANSFORMATION INSPIRATION BY LESLEY MARLO SPRINGTIME IS A GREAT TIME TO RENEW YOUR COMMITMENT TO A HEALTHIER ROUTINE. WHETHER YOU LIKE GROUP CLASSES, ONEON-ONE TRAINING, OR PREFER TO GO IT ALONE ON A CARDIO MACHINE, THE POLO CLUB FITNESS CENTER HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. “WE HAVE A FULL SCHEDULE OF GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES, INCLUDING YOGA, PILATES, DANCE, ZUMBA, SCULPTING, BARRE AND MANY MORE, AS WELL AS INDOOR CYCLING EVERY DAY,” SAYS SPA & FITNESS DIRECTOR, LISA KYTE. “MEMBERS FIND TREMENDOUS MOTIVATION IN CLASS SETTINGS.” Meet two Polo Club Members who each found motivation through his own approach and, as a result, achieved inspiring health and fitness transformations, inside and out. “Fitness was the other major component of the plan, so I started aerobic exercise twice a week.” FRANKLIN BENSON SHIFTING THE CYCLE At the age of 48, Steven Dworkin sold the last of his nine drugstores and retired. He had followed in his father’s footsteps to become a pharmacist and, unfortunately, in other ways that became increasingly evident as he entered his forties. “My father had diabetes, coronary disease, hearing loss, and osteoarthritis,” shares Steven. “At 41, I realized that I was having many of the same problems.” Knee issues and high sugar levels were first to appear. Within ten years, Steven had also been diagnosed with arthritis, diabetes, and coronary disease and had two stents placed in his heart. Then he began to lose hearing. “My body was breaking down, and I realized it was getting worse.” After bypass surgery in 2008, he got more serious about taking care of himself. He set out to improve his immune system and started exercising and eating better. Two years later, he underwent a double knee replacement that took seven months of recovery. Despite healthier habits, Steven still struggled with his sugar levels. He knew he had get more aggressive about exercise. In 2012, he took up spin cycling, which seemed to melt off the pounds. Now, in addition to working full time at his car dealership, Steven takes 2-3 spinning classes per week along with some weight training. “I always aim for a 3-minute mile,” he says. “Instructors Laurie and Abbey are both great. Tough, but great. The people who attend the classes are serious about it. We don’t fool around.” It shows. In one year, he went from a 46 to a 42 suit and from 28% to 12% body fat. Still vanity isn’t what drives this success story. “My motivation is health.” NUTRITION MISSION STEVEN DWORKIN “After bypass surgery in 2008, I got more serious about taking care of myself.” 38 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Franklin Benson is NOT on a diet. “I know how to diet. I have been on more diets than everyone combined,” admits Benson, who started his health transformation less than a year ago. His new approach is a lifestyle shift advised by his internist and a nutritionist, who designed a program to address Benson’s diet and exercise after he was diagnosed as pre-diabetic. “I had wanted to do this for 20 years but suddenly had the motivation it took when my doctor said I was borderline and something had to change. That really scared me,” he said. The first thing the nutritionist told him was to stop eating diet food. When he wanted ice cream, she told him to have a small scoop instead of a bowl of fat-free, sugar-free yogurt loaded with hard-to-digest artificial ingredients. He eats carbohydrates, but only in the daytime, sweet potatoes, a lot of salads, veggies, chicken and fish but avoids fried foods altogether. The key to salads is to avoid the dressings, says Franklin. “It’s mustard and balsamic vinegar for me.” Fitness was the other major component of the plan, so he started aerobic exercise twice a week with Polo trainer Abbey Tannen and weights twice a week with Richie Iscaro. “Both were instrumental in my success,” he says. “This has been a joint effort between my two trainers and my doctor and his crew. Abbey also gave me a lot of great nutritional advice.” Since starting his new lifestyle program last September, he has lost 50 pounds, cut his blood pressure medication in half, dropped his cholesterol medication from 40mg to 10mg, and gone from a 44 waist to a 36 waist. He also says he feels stronger, has a lot more energy, and really loves buying all the new clothes. His plan to keep the weight off is simply to keep the new habits he has created. “I will never be on a diet again, because a diet has a beginning and end. This is the first time I have had an actual lifestyle change.” PoloClub.net 39 Spa & I T N E S S CLASSES F Wellness On the go, at the Club, or just for fun, Sydney Love reversible handbags are stylish, lightweight, and resilient. MUSCLE MIXOLOGY This fast-paced workshop will take you out of your comfort zone and beyond your limits! This class will change weekly. Your heart will race, legs will burn, core will scream, and arms will pump! Embrace high intensity and challenge your muscle mixology! MONDAY MEDITATION Come explore the art of meditation. This practice will guide you through breath work, visualization, and meditative skills on a journey to relax the mind and body. Benefits of meditation can include lower blood pressure, alleviation of pain, increased levels of the sleep hormone melatonin, lower stress levels, greater confidence and self-control, improved concentration, improved health, ability to focus and work efficiently, and alleviation of negative emotions. BARRE AMPLIFIED Barre workouts bring the energy of music to a challenging workout! Both vigorous and enjoyable, this fullbody workout introduces elements of athletic conditioning and performance training to individual exercise segments. Powerful music propels the intensity-driven routines to energize you and amplify your results. ENERGETIC FLEX & FLOW A dynamic and creative practice designed to enhance your energy as you move through a variety of poses linked together by the breath. This class is perfect for all levels and for golf and tennis athletes who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance, and focus. ZUMBA PARTY! Zumba incorporates the hottest and most challenging choreography of Latin style dancing! The essence of the Zumba experience is a fast, energetic pace with loud music and lots of movement! INDOOR CYCLING A cardio class without comparison. Ride through a class emphasizing form, breathing, relaxation, rhythm, intensity, and control. Learn how to climb hills, ride quick flat terrain, and sprint for the finish line while keeping relaxed and powerful in the saddle. CRUNCH Elevate your strength conditioning with a high-intensity metabolic training class that combines high reps of low-weight strength training with cardio interval bursts. Aerobic and anaerobic intervals use athletic movement patterns to increase total energy expenditure. WALK THIS WAY Get your walking shoes on and meet with others who want to get moving! This is the easiest way to start up your fitness regimen! ONE DEVICE. THREE ANTI-AGING SOLUTIONS. Red & infrared light therapy reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Microcurrent technology gently stimulates skin and improves tone. Silky, lightweight and super absorbent shawl-collar, presidential robe combines a supersoft microfiber shell and a plush terry lining. Lip & Eye treatment targets eyebrow furrows, crow’s feet and smile lines. For all Indoor Cycling classes, please call 24 hours in advance Please remember to bring your water bottles. Classes start promptly - as a courtesy to others, please arrive to class on time! 40 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Contact the Spa & Fitness Desk for more information and pricing or call 561-995-1250. PoloClub.net 41 2014 Street Fair This year's 3rd Annual Street Fair, held on December 27th, was our biggest one yet! From chair massages to magic shows, a live band, rides for all ages, face painters, balloon artists, fireworks, and tons of food, this year’s event offered something for everyone, with MORE fun, MORE attractions, and MORE attendees than ever. Everything ran smoothly from beginning to end, and everyone had a great time. It brought the kid out in all of us! To view the video go to PoloClub.net and click on Activities. 42 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE PoloClub.net 43 This past December, the Polo Club Fishing Rodeo had its biggest turnout to date. Children, parents, and grandparents gathered on Polo Rodeo Lake to enjoy a friendly competition where many fish were caught and released back into the lake after weighing. The much-anticipated Rodeo has created many lasting friendships over the years and is an event that kids of all ages always look forward to. Join us at the next Polo Club Fishing Rodeo in December 2015! Thanks to all the participants and Members of the Polo Fishing Club for your help! 44 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE RENOVATION CELEBRATION December 13, 2014 46 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE LADIES' MEMBER/GUEST CARD PARTY Jacob Diament / 16 Grandparents: Joan & George Diament Newcomers Welcome! The Polo Club card rooms welcome new Members monthly, but once a year a very special affair opens the doors a bit further. The Member/Guest Card Party is the highlight of the season when Members invite their guests to enjoy an elegant cocktail reception and sit-down luncheon followed by games in the card room. 48 Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE Ever since they were just five years old, these grandchildren have been reuniting over winter break at The Polo Club, and it all started when they met in the Junior Golf and Junior Tennis Programs. Their friendships have evolved over the past 10 years as they come back seasonally and meet up to play basketball or just hang out and roam around Polo Club grounds. Hunter Kaplan / 15 Grandparents: Arlene & Bernie Dubler Andrew Oestreicher / 16 Grandparents: Ellen & Leonard Freed From Toddlers to Teens Vacationing at The Polo Club Forges Life-Long Friendships Ethan Breslow / 15 Grandparents: Libby & Stanley Goldberg says. “And I have learned so much from the Polo’s Junior programs.” Hunter Kaplan, also known around Polo as “the kid that always won at bingo,” says he loves the food here and especially going to Chill for ice cream. When the boys depart from our South Florida oasis and go their separate ways, they stay connected by texting When asked what they like most, and meeting up back at Ethan Breslow says, “I love staying BY WENDY LEDWITZ home in New York, getting at my grandparents’ home where together for sporting events at Madison Square Garden we have more room than a hotel… and it’s great to and even celebrating their Bar Mitzvahs together. connect with long term friends and have them to hang Mentioning that they sometimes Google images of the out with on vacation.” Andrew Oestreicher agrees that Resort Complex and Golf Courses to show friends back he would rather come to The Polo Club for a vacation home where they spend their vacations, they collectivethan stay at a resort. ly agree, “There’s no place like The Polo Club for winter Jacob Diament likes taking advantage of the facilities and spring break.” and programs Polo Club offers kids of all ages. “I love coming here to play golf and tennis with the guys,” Jacob PoloClub.net 49 arca nigh de t kids activities 50 Spring 2015 In the Know Dear Polo Club Members, As you can see throughout this issue of Trends, there are so many ways to be involved, contribute, socialize, and enjoy the friendship that the Club has to offer. It’s no wonder that our Members feel they have it all! In the News. By now, you have probably seen General Manager Brett Morris in local news featuring the Club’s renovation, but other noteworthy accomplishments have been in the media as well. The 30th anniversary of Polo Tennis was featured recently on CBS News, as was the Polo Pap Corps fundraising luncheon. Our Community Relations Committee was featured in the Sun Sentinel for their community contributions, and several local magazines covered of our ribbon cutting ceremony and Member/Guest golf events. But this is just the tip of the iceberg! In February, we hosted a media event that brought in television personalities, local magazine editors, journalists, radio hosts, and online content writers to personally experience our beautifully renovated Club. We expect the exposure to result in more positive publicity about Polo in the coming months. Picture Perfect. If you see a team of photographers, videographers, or flying drones overhead don’t be surprised! We are taking images of our newly renovated property for new marketing materials, advertising campaigns, website updates, and video tours of the Club. If you would like to see more of our event photos and download a copy for yourself, please go to the Member side of PoloClub.net. Click on My Polo to find the Photo Gallery and view all of the images from our events. Photos can also be viewed on the Polo Club’s Facebook page. Polo Proud. Thank you to all the Members who have shared positive opinions and feedback about the Club! You are the ambassadors of The Polo Club and your views mean a lot to future Members. In light of this being our 30th anniversary, we are asking for your participation in a future issue of Trends. Share a quote about why you are proud to be a Polo Club Member at Share@ PoloClub.net, and be sure to include your name and how long you have lived at the Club. We appreciate your participation in our Polo Proud Project! Thank you, Wendy Ledwitz Director of Marketing & Membership STAY & PLAY WITH THE POLO CLUB 52 WELCOME NEW POLO CLUB MEMBERS Community Member Names Hometown COQUINA ISLE Helen Lechter Bala Cynwyd, PA CYPRESS ISLE Jack & Paula Gora Rodney & Marianne Suliteanu New York, NY Westmount, Quebec VINTAGE OAKS Sol & Blanche Arker Woodmere, NY WATERFORD Annette Hockberg Union City, NJ WINDSOR PARKE Ron Kovacs Fort Lee, NJ Community Renter Names Hometown CATALINA Morey & Elyse Berger Carl & Florence Golub James Levy Gary & Amy Levin Joel & Elayne Kramer Ivan Gordon & Patricia Grove Warren & Madeline Balinsky Abe & Florence Elenowitz Hewlett, NY Scarsdale, NY Yardley, PA West Hartford, CT Blue Bell, PA Reading, PA Setauket, NY Sands Point, NY COQUINA ISLE James & Andrea Rovner Paul Diamond Mort & Myra Zisk Robert & Susan Citrin Roberta Goodman & David Ellenhorn Minnetonka, MN Manhasset, NY Boston, MA Birmingham, MI New York, NY CYPRESS ISLEMorton & Alice Glickman Chris & Cheryl Bottini Joan Rosenberg Mel & Marlene Levine Madeline Train Roslyn, NY Boca Raton, FL New York, NY Mahwah, NJ Scarsdale, NY CRYSTAL BAY Swampscott, MA Dr. Paul & Joy Goldstein HAMPTON COURTWilliam & Phyllis Wald Selma Suna Stanley & Elaine Schlessinger Port Washington, NY Livingston, NJ New York, NY HOLLOWS Bruce & Danielle Lifton Herbert & Anne Bookstein Boca Raton, FL New York, NY KNIGHTSBRIDGE John & Wendy Tulin Martin & Bonnie Ratner Hewlett, NY Harrison, NY ROYAL PALM COVE Dave & Ellyn Robbins Highland Park, IL If your friends are evaluating their next residential purchase, we welcome them to come experience all the wonderful aspects of the Club. VILLE DE CAPRI Steven & Stephanie Roth Seelig & Marsha Pearlstein White Plains, NY Northbrook, IL Please contact our Membership Department at 561-912-1010 to learn more about our Stay & Play program or to schedule a tour of our newly renovated clubhouse. WINDSOR PARKE Joel & Nancy Kaye Beth Gans Betsy Singer John Bauman & Sherry Norris Owings Mills, MD Franklin, MI Jericho, NY New York, NY Spring 2015 | TRENDS MAGAZINE PoloClub.net 53 tennis clearly, Jean and her staff put in the work to keep The Polo Club at the top of the tennis game. Still, Jean is quick to share credit with everyone involved in the program. the-art ball machines, two hitting walls, concierge services for finding a game or a player, racket stringing, free gift wrapping and gripping, a computerized court reservation system, and a full service complement of pros who have taught and played on the circuit. “Staying cutting edge means we always want to get better,” says Jean. “What we do may be good but we can always improve, and it’s something we focus on daily. What the Club needed 30 years ago may not be what it needs today.” “I’ve always said that the ‘P’ in Polo stands for people,” Jean says with affection. “You can have a wonderful clubhouse or sports program, but what makes the difference in any club is the people and what the people are willing to do to help each other. That’s why Polo is special.” “We have this incredible teamwork with our Members and staff and a mutual respect and caring for each other,” she shares. “I have seen it myself - not just on the court but in life itself. When someone is sick or needs to get to the doctor, they help each other out. Through sports and a community like this, people become lifelong friends and extended family that rallies for each other. It’s a great support system and has been a remarkable story.” Love All Her dedicated staff has 176 combined years of experience with Polo Club Tennis and, according to Jean, is like a big family. “We feel like we haven’t worked a day in our lives,” she says. “It’s such an extraordinary place to be. As we say, we are living the dream.” Three decades of remarkable achievements don’t happen by accident, and The Polo Club is known in the tennis industry for star-studded charity events, world-class tournaments, and special exhibitions. Jean and her staff never lose sight of their goal to deliver what she calls the “best of the best” in a total program for Members. color war POLO CLUB TENNIS CELEBR ATES ITS DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY BY LESLEY MARLO A special thanks to our captains, (left to right) Richie Isaacson, Green, Helen Friedman, Yellow: Judie Block, Blue and Elliot Wilk, Red. Color War is one of the Tennis program’s highlights of the year with over 100 players assigned to one of the four teams (yellow, blue, red, green). Perfect weather on December 13, 2014 showcased this exciting competition. The fun began with each captain organizing a team cheer. Following the cheers, each team was divided into Men’s and Women’s doubles, where the teams competed in a round-robin format for points. Following a morning of spirited play, everyone enjoyed a festive group lunch. juniortennis camp Tennis is a sport for a lifetime and starts at an early age. Polo offers a year-round junior program and special holiday camps and clinics featuring the Quick Start program. The goal is to promote Tennis as an integral part of family life and a major component of the Polo lifestyle. For more information, please call the Resort & Tennis Shoppe at 561995-1260 or speak to Piotr Krzyzanowski, who heads the Polo Jr. program. JEAN MILLS, Director of Tennis l First Women’s Tennis Coach, University of Alabama 1974-1978 l First Executive Director of the Professional Tennis Registry 1978-1980 l Director of Tennis, Laver’s International Tennis Resort 1980-1985 l First Woman Master PTR Pro in the world 2000 l Board of Directors, USTA Florida Section 1990-2002 l President of USTA Florida Section 1999-2000 l President, USTA Florida Foundation 2002-2010 l P resident, Professional Tennis Registry 2009-2011 l Board of Directors, PTR 2000-2015 l Inducted into the Alabama Tennis Hall of Fame 2002 l Inducted into the Florida Tennis Hall of Fame 2002 l “The Membership has always believed in the future of tennis,” says Director of Tennis Jean Mills, “Members here are really passionate about the Club, passionate about the game, and passionate about giving back to their community.“ In 2015, The Polo Club celebrates its 30th Anniversary. While today’s Polo Club is renowned for its status as a 5-star Platinum Club of America, and its two Championship golf courses, in its early days, the Club was founded on tennis. When the club was built in 1985, it was owned by developers who brought in the Virginia Slims of Florida Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) event to showcase the facilities and attract national and international audiences and new Members. “It was a Mecca of tennis in the beginning,” says the Club’s Director of Tennis, Jean Mills, who speaks from experience. Jean is a USTA Florida and Alabama Hall of Famer and has worked at the Club’s Tennis Center since it began, and has seen the Center through three decades of milestones. All Aces Ask Jean to share some highlights and prepare to be regaled with stories, one more impressive than the last and many featuring some of the most renowned names in tennis history. Jennifer Capriati played her only national juniors tournament here in 1988 and then came back two years later to make her pro debut playing in the Virginia Slims WTA event at age 14. Close to 8,000 people were on the property for the tournament, including 800 photographers and writers. Chris Evert was the Club’s touring pro for 21 years and also maintained a home here, as did Steffi Graff, Hana Mandlikova, and Jana Novotna. Lindsay Davenport, Mary Pierce, Chanda Rubin, and Mary Jo Fernandez all started their careers at Polo Club in the Girls National 12s Clay Court Championship, the top event in the U.S. featuring the top 128 junior girls from all over the country. The Club has hosted this prestigious event for 27 years. H onored as First Women’s Tennis Coach of University of Alabama, 2013, Alabama Pavillion of Champions Peter and the Polo Junior Tennis Camp Kids Service Game Jean credits Members for their support, welcoming players’ families into their homes and donating their facilities for events. “The Membership has always believed in the future of tennis,” says Jean, citing the Girls National 12 event and Polo Club’s partnership with the USTA as a yearround training facility for kids age 14 and under who come to train and play with our coaches. “Members here are really passionate about the club, passionate about the game, and passionate about giving back to their community. To me that’s why Polo Club is so special,” she adds. More than $13 million has been raised through the numerous charity events held over the years, including The Andy Roddick Foundation event and Chris Evert’s ProCelebrity Tennis Classic. Both were hosted here for three years and utilized the tennis facilities as well as the clubhouse for silent and live auctions and gala dinners. Along with charitable giving, Members volunteer their time to worthy causes and local events like the Wheelchair Championship Tournament and the Delray Open. “That is what is most admirable to me,” says Jean. “It’s not just about donating money. It’s about donating time, and I think that’s the greatest gift you can give.” Triple Crown While The Polo Club is known in the tennis industry for star-studded charity events, world-class tournaments, and special exhibitions, Jean and her tireless staff never lose sight of their goal to deliver what she calls the “best of the best” in a total program for Members every day, whether they play socially, competitively, or just come to spectate. Today’s Tennis Program offers every possible tennis service, including three state-of- The Polo Club Boca Raton 30th Anniversary January 24, 2015 T H R EE D EC A D E S O F P O LO T ENNI S HI STO R Y State & National Awards Famous Tennis Residents l l Chris Evert 1985-2009 Steffi Graf 1988-2000 l Hana Mandlikova 1994-2001 l Jana Novotna 1996-1998 l 1 987: Florida Section Member Club of the Year l 1 988: United States Tennis Association Member Club of the Year l l l 1 992-1994: T ennis Industry, top 5 Pro Shops in the United States Doubles Championship Titles l Ladies Division Titles ..... 41 Prestigious Events Charities l International Tennis Federation Cups (in United States only twice) 1992 and 2014 l R aised over $10 million for Israeli Tennis Centers l V irginia Slims of Florida (7 yrs.) 1987-1993 l l U STA Girls’ National 12 Championships (28 yrs.) 1986-2014 R aised over $3.4 million for Andy Roddick Foundation l C hris Evert Pro Celebrity (3 yrs.) 1991-1993 l R aised over $100,000 for Cystic Fibrosis l R aised $30,000 for Donna Klein Jewish Academy 2 010: Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) 2010 Private Tennis Facility of the Year, an international award. PTR has 15,000 pros in 122 countries worldwide. l Ladies County Titles ..... 16 l Andy Roddick Pro Celebrity Tennis Weekend 2007-2010 l Men’s Division Titles ..... 40 l l Men’s Country Titles ..... 15 G ulfstream Designated/Sectional Boy’s and Girls’ Tournament 2010-2014 l 2 011: T ennis Racquet Sports Magazine Private Tennis Facility of the Year Award in the United States l U STA East Coast Swing Men’s Singles Championships l D avis Cup Dinner 2003 l F ederation Cup Dinner 2007 Mixed Doubles Titles ..... 9 Exhibitions l W heelchair Tennis, 1990 (only one in Florida) l Women’s Doubles Exhibition, 1993 Billie Jean King - Chris Evert vs. Martina Navratilova - Pam Shriver l U STA Training Camps (Boys’ 16s, Boys’ 14s, Boys’ 12s and Girls’ 14s), 1998-2014 l H osted Men’s Palm Beach County Grand Slam League Playoffs, 2011-2014