The nicer bar/bar area (in my opinion) is in what used to be (wasted) lobby space and was Brett Hill's idea.  Of course Brett Hill's 'ideas' led to astronomical single-year losses (more than 600k i think), which finally led to the OPA realizing - - after losing millions at 200k+ losses a year for decades - - that maybe we should try professionals for the food service.  (It's somewhat ironic that the same board members who were ok with 200k losses, and who then enabled the Brett Hill debacle, are now patting themselves on the back for the successes of the Ortt company.)

It's interesting to note (again, my recollection) that down thru the years Tom Stauss (Progress) was the only local journalist to promote having professionals taking over the food service operation.  Even the Clubs Committee majority (I was a minority of one) was all for maintaining the status quo (ie perpetual losses).

BTW, I disagree that there was to be parking under the building . . . Bob Thompson clearly stated that area was to be open-air dining, and as someone points out the architects drawing illustrates that.

Steve Lind                                                                                                                        Stones Run