CLUB NEWS
We had to figure out scheduling, so we purchased new software. It was mostly trial by fire. We did just 30 sitting assignments that first year, but the program evolved and expanded over time.” YARD WORKS: A COUPLE OF RAKES Buoyed by the initial success of the baby-sitting service, Martin took steps to create new revenue and to grow the department. The following year Concierge Services added yard work. “We decided to add yard clean-up to our services. The total of our equipment at the start was ‘a couple of rakes, “Martin chuckled. “There were challenges and it started with the uniforms.” “Yes…we sent guys out with the rakes for pine needle clean-up in polo shirts and shorts,” Vigorito, also chuckled. “They were not really dressed properly. We learned the guys needed to have the proper clothing, so we eventually got them khakis and Forest Highlands uniforms.” Kurt and Austin both agreed, it was “all hands-on deck” back then. Sometimes, when they did not have the staff, Caitlin Ebbs, the assistant director, and the two of them took on the yard assignment themselves.
LOCATED AT FACILITY OPERATIONS BUILDING FOR THE SUMMER
PET CARE
MOVING
The next winter, snow removal was added.
SNOW REMOVAL – ONE SNOWBLOWER AND TWO SHOVELS “In Recreation, we did our own maintenance, we helped with the sports equipment at the parks, playgrounds and tennis courts. We knew our team could do more,” Kurt explained. “Caitlin was the initiator. She started snow removal before I wanted to…but she got us moving in the right direction.” Austin added, “Right after the first storm, we got immediate calls. But we had no money in the budget, so Kurt went to Home Depot and bought our first snow blower -a cheap one - and a couple of snow shovels on his own. We tried to get to as many houses as we could, but it was really bad at the start.” “It would take forever to do the driveway and sidewalks with hand shovels and one blower. It was a huge learning curve,” Vigorito shared. “The hardest part was it was so hard to predict…. how to staff it when there was no snow. But we just adjusted and adapted.” HANGING A MOOSE HEAD On occasion, Concierge has had unique assignments. One stands out. It was the hanging of a big game trophy. “The story is one I share when we train new staff,” Vigorito explained. “I use it as an example because members sometimes ask you to do strange things and they may not be specific over the phone.” “One member’s home was on Lindberg Spring and said he needed a few guys to move some things but didn’t give much detail. I showed up with twins, Etienne and Sebastian, from our staff,” shared Austin. “I said to the Member. ‘We heard you need some stuff moved around and right away he pointed up
CLEANING
AND SO MUCH MORE!
To request a service or quote please visit the
members.fhgc.com website, click on Recreation then find Concierge Services in the Quick Links or contact Austin; 928 - 525 - 9792.
VOICE IN THE PINES • JULY 2024
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