Sep 4, 2025 — Frank Ulrich: Early Colorado Springs

Bulletin for September 4, 2025

Featured Speaker: Frank Ulrich

Frank Ulrich and The Early Years — Travel, Tradition, and Colorado Springs History

OPENING

Benny led the prayer and Kathy led the Pledge of Allegiance.

CLUB BUSINESS

Club Traditions and Fines

Good-natured bantering about club traditions included fines for not wearing the green Pikes Peak Club shirt (even with a pin), and the tradition of having the rule-breaker pick a friend to receive the fine as well — a nod to Marine Corps tradition.

Membership History

Kevin reviewed club membership history, including joining dates and notable members: Sam (joined 10–12 years ago), Marty (joined 2016), and Mike Savino (president 2016–2017). Dick Wilhelm's leadership and contributions were highlighted.

Christmas Party Update

The Christmas party is scheduled for December 17th at Patty Jewett. Details are being finalized.

KEYNOTE: FRANK ULRICH — THE EARLY YEARS

Frank Ulrich, one of the club's most senior and beloved members, shared stories from a remarkable life in Colorado Springs spanning decades of history.

Travel Agency (Starting 1957)

Frank recounted his career in travel before the internet, computers, or even teletype — when all arrangements were made by telephone and paper airline tickets. He handled trips to Europe (often via motorcoach), Hawaii (including steamships to Australia and New Zealand), and Mexico. His meticulous approach to difficult clients led him to build trusted relationships with European hotel and restaurant partners.

The Quarterback Club

Frank shared memories of the Quarterback Club, featuring notable guest speakers including Ben Martin, Bill Parcells, Bob Spear (NFL), and Tony Frasca of Massachusetts. The club eventually closed following financial difficulties.

The Jim McKay Dinner

Frank organized a large dinner event with Jim McKay as guest speaker. Mid-event, he received word that a client's father in New York had left his passport at home before an international trip. Frank had the courage to ask Jim McKay directly to carry the passport to JFK — and McKay agreed, on the condition the recipient hold up a sign for identification.

Personal History and Colorado Springs

Frank shared family stories about his father's restaurant ventures and his own work at a driving range — where his father invented the golf ball picking tube. His father's restaurant, the 'Yew Bow Inn,' had a Western theme with no neon lights. Staff legends like Merrill White (who lit ladies' cigarettes with a lighter) and Cotton (who worked there 14 years) were remembered fondly. Frank also mentioned the Cotton Club, which made everyone welcome.

"Life is a living experience, only if you learn."

— Yogi Berra

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