Magazine Jul-Aug 2018

FROM THE General Manager

Dear Members,

During this time of redevelopment, when there’s noise and dust, and parts of the new clubhouse just aren’t yet working the way we expected them to, it’s easy for us to focus attention on the “hardware”. Please, though, keep in mind that The Club isn’t just a building or collection of spaces. It’s the people working in it who make it a truly special place. Whatever frustrations our Members may encounter, know that our team members are doing their level best to keep operations running smoothly in spite of the many difficulties of working in what is basically still a construction zone. They’ve been sent to work offsite at locations like the Bukit Merah pool, had to contend with switching job roles or outlets, deal with the inconvenience and noise of demolition, and then confront the challenges of operating in temporary, unfamiliar, or new spaces. While it has been trying to keep The Club open as it is being rebuilt, a real benefit of this has been our ability to retain a very high-quality group of people who work day in and out to know and serve our Members’ needs. Singapore presents a very difficult labor market, with virtually no unemployment and a bias against hiring foreigners, so The Club’s ability to provide a thriving workplace is a big key to its success. So when the frustrations of hoardings, temporary locker rooms, closed facilities, and flooded walkways get you down, do remember that there are close to 300 people working to the best of their abilities to greet Members with a smile, work through the difficulties, serve our Members’ needs, and ultimately create a space that provides more than just a set of services and facilities, but a real community.

Summer is a slow time of year at The Club. Many of our Members make extended trips back to the US or Canada to visit family and friends, or simply to see the sights and renew their acquaintance with “home”. During June both local and international schools are in recess, making it a great time for the entire family to get away, perhaps to somewhere new, or to revisit favorite places. Sadly, summer is also when expats tend to relocate either because it is prior to the start of a new school year, or due to myriad other reasons that make these months opportune to take on a new role, or even retire and resettle into a new home. In fact, the General Committee will be losing three of its stalwart members this year as circumstances lead them to relocate after long stints in Singapore. Summer is also when The Club’s staff get to recharge their batteries. June 18 was Staff Fun Day – which took on an “Amazing Race”-style competition at Sentosa complete with team names, banners and lots of prizes. Our Members have generously made it possible for every one of our staff to participate in this special event by allowing the clubhouse to be closed for the day – thank you for your support. Later on July 30, our staff gala dinner and awards presentation takes place. This year it will be held on New York Street at Universal Studios, and several of our team members will be recognized for making outstanding service contributions to The American Club. Among the event’s highlights will also be the presentation of long service awards (the list includes one staff who has been with The Club for an incredible 50 years – well done Betty! Read about her on page 28.) This group of individuals has shown extraordinary dedication to The Club, and if you’ve been long-time Members, as my family has been, then they have watched your little ones grow up – from taking swimming and dance lessons and going to camp, to perhaps having a beer at the Union Bar now.

Devin

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JUL / AUG 2018 THE AMERICAN CLUB