When you begin a job at the start of the new millennium, it’s easy to keep track of how long you’ve been working. Three staff members of the Scottsdale Country Club at DC Ranch are celebrating their “Sweet 16” anniversary at the Club this year: Cheri Farias, Director of Communications and Clubhouse Operations, Alfredo Garcia, Lead Server and Sommelier, and Melanie Halpert, Director of Membership. They took time out recently to talk about the special qualities that motivated them to stay with us among all the private golf clubs in Scottsdale for so many years.
“The most rewarding part of my job is watching new members meet lifelong friends at The Club,” commented Melanie Halpert. “So many of our members are new to the area and do not know anyone. The Club is known throughout the Valley not only as a premier lifestyle country club, but as a warm and inviting family-oriented place.”
Cheri Farias agreed: “We are a true family-friendly club. We stand behind our ‘Fun, Family and Friendliness’ mission statement. The membership has grown from 250 when I started to more than 500 now, and many more families have children under the age of 18. When we offer an adult event, we do our best to also offer a kid’s event at the same time.”
Lasting Memories
Alfredo: Years ago, a member told me golf was the easiest sport to play. She was a great golfer, and explained that since the ball doesn’t move, it is easy to hit. Coming from Mexico, where golf is not a popular sport, I decided to try learning to play. One of the golf pros gave me some basic tips, but after the explanation of the correct stance (shoulders, head, hips, feet, butt out, etc.) I realized it wasn’t so easy! Now I appreciate the game even more.
Cheri: One of my favorite memories was when we surprised Paul Skelton, our COO at the time, with the Leadership Scholarship for ongoing education. We were preparing for our Grand Re-Opening of the clubhouse after renovation and he had just been inducted in the Golf Hall of Fame. Continuous education for the employees at CCDC was one of his passions, so we started a scholarship in his name and surprised him with it on his birthday. It was an exciting time at The Club for everyone.
Beloved Traditions
Cheri: The Santa dinner is one of the magical events I look forward to each year. We have the “real” Santa here to greet the children and sit with each one of them to take their photo and get their wish list. It is an “organized chaos” kind of a night because the children get very excited with all of the activity!
Alfredo: The Opening Party! When the Members arrive and see their friends, and the staff, the excitement is very high. There’s a lot of anticipation for the season ahead.
Melanie: I think one of the reasons our Scottsdale Country Club members love being at The Club is seeing so many of the staff members who have been here for 10, 15, 20 years! They love that it feels like family.
Insider Facts About The Club
Did you know that . . .
- When The Club first started, employees wore cowboy and cowgirl uniforms
- There is more grass on the golf course at The Country Club at DC Ranch than any other golf course in north Scottsdale
- The Club has a “secret special cookie” only served on Saturdays to the members. It’s delicious!
- The Four Tops once performed at The Club
- Martha Stewart once planned and hosted a wedding at The Club
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