My brother, the legendary guitarist Robert Fripp, wisely says, “Never be afraid to let go of a good thing.”
Celebrating GGBC: A Gem of San Francisco History
Since its founding in 1946, the Golden Gate Breakfast Club (GGBC) has been a vibrant part of San Francisco’s history. It was born post-World War II, when communities were eager to rebuild, reconnect, and find purpose. Over the decades, GGBC became a unique space for camaraderie, creativity, and fellowship.
For decades, membership was highly coveted—only one professional from each industry could join, and many members spent years on the waiting list. The club quickly evolved beyond a club for business professionals and civic leaders. It became a place where friendships flourished, stories inspired, and laughter echoed.
In 1976, my hairstyling client Al Stanton invited me to speak to GGBC. He knew I was travelling around the country delivering seminars for hairstylists and was the star of my Dale Carnegie Public Speaking Course. This was my first non-hairstyling group. Who knew this type of activity would become the best marketing for my salon? In 2000, I was invited to be their first female member, and in January of 2024, I accepted the role as president, as nobody else wanted to.
Naturally, I accepted the challenge and followed my usual course of action, putting as much energy and passion into the job as possible.
Challenges and Change
By 2019, we began noticing a decline in membership, and interest started to wane. Then came January 20, 2020, and our world changed. Again, it became a time when we were eager to reconnect. Craig Stuart Adams and Tony Woodall stepped up, and we began holding weekly GGBC meetings on Zoom. Long-time member and keeper of traditions, Peter Ratto had the idea to have a meeting manager, and Carl Walsh, Gary McKinsey, and I stepped up. We had incredibly well-run meetings.
This transition brought unexpected benefits. We welcomed exceptional speakers worldwide, including our first virtual speaker, a boat maker from Japan. Many speakers enjoyed us as much as we enjoyed them, and our membership grew. We all enjoy Hugh Coppen, Randall Reader, Tim Durkin, Paul Coleman, Janice Litvin, Derek Arden, Tracy Hooper, Gary McKinsey, Douglas Bowers, and Janelle Barlow.
Yet, as life returned to normal, long-time members expressed nostalgia for “the good old days” that no longer exist and were tired of Zoom. Despite offering the best lineup of speakers in our history and outstanding meeting management, increased membership growth proved challenging after the pandemic.
Despite our fantastic enthusiasm, great publicity through LinkedIn, and interested guests, as with many volunteer organizations, nobody wants to step into leadership, and certainly not be President.
A Bold and Thoughtful Decision
After heartfelt discussions, the dedicated Board of Directors decided to close GGBC. We go out on a high note, celebrating nearly 80 years of success.
On April 16, we have a special celebration lunch to honor our legacy. Members, past members, spouses, and friends of GGBC will enjoy a celebration lunch and program at the Marines Memorial Club. They have always looked after us superbly well.
Closing with Gratitude
Am I sad? Absolutely. GGBC has been a significant part of my life since 1976, when I was first invited to speak. However, this is the right time to conclude this incredible journey.
It has been my honor to be part of our remarkable history.
As my brother would say, “GGBC has not stopped. It has completed its mission. This opens the space for what is next.”
Is this the time for you to give up something good? Once you make the decision, everything falls into place.
“To watch how our veteran group of salespeople became involved in your Storytelling to Increase Sales was impressive. We are excited to continue your training with FrippVT Sales.” Jeff Walters, Vice President, North American Sales, Peak-Ryzex
“For my most important speeches, I call Patricia Fripp.” Wanda Hope, Chief Diversity Officer, Johnson & Johnson Worldwide
