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TARA - Newsletter June 2026 - FINAL

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TARA DIRECTORY

MAIN CLUB HOUSE PHONE NUMBER: 941.756.7775

EXTENSIONS:

GENERAL MANAGER: 1222 | DAVID TAYLOR

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER: 1230 | MORGAN BUECHNER

ADMINISTRATION: 1229 | JILL OROLOGIO

FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER: 1225 | BRYAN ALLEN

ASSISTANT FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER: 1242 | BRAEDEN SHAFF

ARC (ARCH. REVIEW): 1221 | CHRISTINE KANAYAMA

LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR: 1224 | OLIVIA BALDASSARI

MEMBER BILLING : 1223 | BRASHELLA KEYS

FACILITY MANAGER: 1248 | BRETT ALLEN

GOLF SHOP: 1231 | MARLENE, RICK & DONNA

GOLF PROFESSIONAL: 1226 | MELISSA WILLIAMS

FIRST ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL: 1241 | NATE WEBER

RESTAURANT & RESERVATIONS: 1235 & 1242 | ERIC, LIZETH, ALAINA & IZZY

SNACK BAR: 1227 | STEPHANIE

TARA’S MISSION: To provide an exceptional private country club experience while maintaining the club’s reputation as a financially sound and highly valued community where members enjoy outstanding golf, vibrant amenities and social camaraderie.

TARA’S VISION: Tara Golf & Country Club will be the most desirable private club in the Sarasota/Bradenton area in terms of value, quality of its golf course, its wide range of amenities and its member-friendly culture.

Photo by Pat Neumann

TARA COMMUNITY NEWS

MESSAGE FROM PHILLIP

Summer is here, and after such a dry winter, the much-needed rain is a welcome sight. With the new season comes renewed energy throughout our community.

At the May 4th Board meeting, all nine committees were officially put in place and are already hard at work. I want to thank everyone who stepped forward to volunteer. Even if you were not selected for a committee, your willingness to get involved was greatly appreciated and did not go unnoticed. It’s this kind of participation that helps make Tara such a wonderful place to call home.

Looking back on the past winter season, it was great to see so many residents enjoying our activities and social events. Over the years, Tara has grown into much more than a golf community — it has become a warm and active lifestyle community while still offering a golf course we can all be proud of. The future of Tara is bright, and there is a lot to look forward to.

Our Summer Membership Program began its second year on May 1st and will continue through October 31st. We’re happy to share that 41 members joined the program this season, helping make use of summer availability while also bringing an estimated $150,000 in additional revenue to the community.

As we move forward, continuing to work together will remain important. When the Board, committees, management, staff, and residents support one another, great things happen. That shared spirit is what truly makes Tara such a special community.

The next regular Board meeting will be held on June 1 at 3:00 PM.

Thank you for your continued support, involvement, and pride in our community.

Photo by Glenda Watson
Photo by Barb Nielson

TARA COMMUNITY NEWS

MESSAGE FROM DAVID TAYLOR,

Dear Tara Members,

As we welcome June, we also welcome the slower pace and unique charm that summer brings to Tara. While many of our seasonal residents have headed north, more than 60% of our membership proudly calls Florida home year-round, and we remain committed to delivering a vibrant and engaging club experience throughout the summer months.

The biggest topic around the Club continues to be the Clubhouse Refresh Project, and I wanted to take a moment to provide everyone with an update.

Over the last month, we have encountered a few construction hurdles that were uncovered during demolition and structural review. Most recently, it was determined that a concrete header within the project area needs to be replaced with new structural steel in order to provide the proper long-term support and integrity for the building. While these types of discoveries are never ideal, they are also exactly why thorough renovations are so important. Our priority remains doing the project the right way — not simply the fastest way.

This additional work has pushed portions of our timeline back by a few weeks. However, we are working hand-in-hand with our General Contractor and project team every day to identify opportunities to regain lost time where possible. At this moment, our goal remains to have the new bar area open by late October or early November.

Once we move into July and the structural work is further along, we will have a much clearer understanding of the revised timeline and will send a separate communication with more definitive project milestones and anticipated opening dates.

We truly appreciate everyone’s patience, flexibility, and positive attitude throughout this transformation. While construction can sometimes be inconvenient, the end result will be something our membership can be proud of for decades to come.

On a more personal note, June has always been one of my favorite months at the Club. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate fathers, families, and the traditions that bring us together. We look forward to another fantastic Father’s Day Brunch and an exciting weekend of golf as the U.S. Open takes center stage at historic Shinnecock Hills.

We hope you’ll join us throughout the month to celebrate, relax, and enjoy everything that makes Tara such a special community.

Thank you again for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you around the Club this summer.

Stacie Beveridge & Jeff Mofina Golf

6501 Stone River Rd.

Chris & Connie Burke - Social 6640 Pineview Terrace

Thomas Hufft, Jr. & Amy Patterson – Golf 6710 Pleasant Hill Rd.

Richard & Dianne Saunders Golf

6803 Drewry’s Bluff

Edward & Mauria McPaddenTyszka – Golf 6501 Stone River Rd.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS: IN DEEPEST SYMPATHY:

William Hager

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Our TARA family is keeping the loved ones in our thoughts & prayers.

Photo by Carolyn Ginex

TARA COMMUNITY NEWS

MESSAGE FROM MORGAN BUECHNER, ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER

941.758.7775 x1230 | mbuechner@taragcc.com

Happy Summer from Tara Golf & Country Club!

As we begin winding down into the summer season, we’d like to wish all of our members a happy, safe, and enjoyable summer. Whether you are staying close to home or heading north for the season, we hope you have a wonderful time and look forward to welcoming you back soon.

Before departing for the summer, we kindly ask members participating in the Hole-in-One Club to please check in with Jill if you would like to close out your Hole-in-One participation. To ensure we do not miss any requests and to help avoid any unnecessary charges, all requests must be submitted in writing via email: JOrologio@taragcc.com . Verbal requests cannot be accepted.

Thank you for your assistance, and we wish you a fantastic summer season!

Morgan Buechner

Photo by Jean Rollins
Photo by Carolyn Ginex

TARA GOLF HAPPENINGS

MESSAGE FROM MISSY WILLIAMS, HEAD GOLF PRO 941.758.7961 x1226 | mwilliams@taragcc.com

As we enter the summer season, characterized by increased rainfall and elevated temperatures, I would like to highlight several important items for your consideration:

Nutrition and Hydration: During your time on the course, which typically exceeds four hours, it is imperative to focus on proper nutrition and hydration. Ensure you are consuming adequate water and electrolytes, along with nutritious foods such as protein-rich snacks, rather than sugary options. Hydration remains a critical component in maintaining your performance and overall well-being.

Dress Code: Please be reminded that adherence to the dress code at Tara is of utmost importance, both on the driving range and the golf course. While we acknowledge the discomfort that arises from high temperatures and the desirability of cooler attire, tank tops are not permitted. We kindly encourage you to refer to the Tara directory for detailed information regarding acceptable dress standards. The standards established by the board of directors are essential for maintaining a positive experience for everyone at Tara. Your understanding and cooperation are crucial in upholding these standards, and this expectation extends to any guests you invite to join you.

Lightning Safety : As we enter a season where lightning activity is commonly observed, it is imperative to adhere to the safety standards established by the board. Lightning poses a significant danger, and failure to comply with the alarm notifications may result in serious injury. In the event of a single-tone alarm, individuals are advised to seek the nearest shelter. Please note that if you are located on holes 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, or 15, the pro shop may not be the nearest safe haven; therefore, please proceed to the bathrooms for adequate protection. Remain in shelter until an “all clear” signal is given before returning to the course. The same weather alert applications utilized by the pro shop are accessible on your smartphones; it is crucial to monitor these notifications as they are intended solely for your safety. Should the weather conditions deteriorate significantly, please take shelter indoors until the situation improves.

Missy Williams

GUESS THE MEMBER:

Can you name this Tara member from his throwback golf photo? See the back page for the answer.

STRAIGHT IN THE CUP! 2026 HOLE-IN ONES

TARA COURSE HAPPENINGS

MESSAGE FROM DON ABELL, COURSE

941.751.5593 | dabell@taragcc.com

Aerification is a mechanical process which causes a short term disruption, but has long term benefits for turfgrass on the golf course. Aerification relieves soil compaction, removes thatch and creates pore space for air to get to the root zone. In fact, the condition of a green has a lot to do with what goes on below the surface. In order for grass to grow at a 1/8 inch, it must have deep healthy roots. Good roots demand oxygen. In good soil, roots get the oxygen from tiny pockets of air trapped between soil and sand particles. Overtime, the traffic from golfers and regular maintenance tends to compact the soil under the putting green. When this soil becomes compacted, the air pockets are severely reduced which in turn keeps the roots from growing. Without oxygen, the grass plants become weaker and will be unable to survive.

Remember, aerification is one of the most important cultural practices that we do to the golf course to relieve compaction. This process will help keep the golf course in the best possible condition throughout the year.

The following is the aerification schedule for the summer of 2026:

• May 4th – May 6th First aerification, Chipco Choice

• July 6th – July 12th Second aerification, Fairway Verticut

• September 8th – 10th Final aerification

Don Abell

We are incredibly proud to congratulate Missy Williams and Don Abell on their outstanding achievements with the PGA North Florida Southwest Chapter.

Don has been honored as Superintendent of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of his dedication, expertise, and commitment to maintaining exceptional course conditions for our membership.

Missy has received multiple prestigious honors — Golf Professional of the Year, induction into the Hall of Fame, and the Professional Development Award. These accomplishments reflect her leadership, passion for the game, and continuous commitment to growth and excellence.

Both Missy and Don work tirelessly for Tara Golf & Country Club, and this incredible recognition is a testament to their hard work and professionalism. We are truly fortunate to have them on our team.

Please join us in congratulating them on these remarkable achievements!

TARA FOOD & BEVERAGE NEWS

MESSAGE FROM BRYAN ALLEN, F&B MANAGER

941.756.7775 ext.1225 | bryana@taragcc.com

Summer has officially arrived, and we could not be happier to welcome the season! Longer days, warm evenings, and time spent enjoying the club with friends and family always make this one of the best times of the year. After the dry weather we’ve experienced recently, we are also hopeful for some much-needed rain to help keep our grounds healthy, green, and beautiful throughout the summer months.

As we continue working through the exciting remodel of the building, we would like to sincerely thank all of our members for your continued patience and understanding. We know construction and temporary adjustments can sometimes be inconvenient, but we are excited about the improvements being made and appreciate your support during the process.

We would also like to kindly remind members that when signing receipts, please include your member number instead of a signature whenever possible. This small change will greatly assist our staff in reducing charging errors and ensuring all charges are applied accurately to the correct account.

Thank you again for being such an important part of our club community. We look forward to a wonderful summer season ahead filled with great memories, and good company.

Thank you,

Bryan Allen
Photo by Carolyn Ginex

TARA LIFESTYLE HAPPENINGS

MESSAGE FROM OLIVIA

941.751.4637 ext.1224 | obaldassari@taragcc.com

Summer has officially arrived in Florida — the temperatures are climbing, the lovebugs are back, the AC is running nonstop, and the roads have become a little quieter as many of our seasonal residents head north for the summer. While we’ll miss seeing everyone, our year-round residents still have plenty to look forward to here at the Club in the coming months.

• On June 13th, get ready for our Claws & Shells Night! Enjoy a fun coastal-themed evening featuring a delicious seafood boil, peeland-eat shrimp, snow crab legs, and much more. Reservations begin at 5:30pm.

• Then on June 15th, Just What the Doctor Ordered – Fun & Laughter is the Best Medicine returns. Spend the afternoon enjoying unique games, lunch, laughter, and great company with fellow members from 12pm–3pm. It’s the perfect way to beat the Monday blues and meet new friends.

• Celebrate Dad at our Father’s Day Brunch on June 21st from 10am–3pm. Treat your dad, grandpa, uncle, or any special father figure to a signature brunch everyone will enjoy.

• Closing out the month on June 27th–28th is No Way Out – Murder at the Speakeasy. Step back into 1920s Chicago for an interactive murder mystery experience filled with themed cocktails, a delicious dinner beginning at 5:30pm, and plenty of suspense. Members are highly encouraged to dress in their best 1920s attire and help solve the mystery — where anyone could be a suspect!

Please note the Clubhouse will be closed from July 6th–18th for our annual deep cleaning and will reopen on Sunday, July 19th. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we complete this important maintenance process and prepare the Clubhouse for another wonderful season ahead.

Thank you,

CLUB CALENDARS

Click here to view the Golf Calendar

Click here to view the Dining & Social Calendar

Click here to view the Fitness & Recreation Calendar

Click here to view the Bocce, Tennis, and Pickleball Calendar

Photo by Carolyn Ginex

TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1235

24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.

FITNESS & RECREATION NEWS

LIST OF ALL ACTIVITIES AT TARA

EUCHRE – Select Tuesdays - Please reference the flyer or Fitness & Recreation Calendar | 6pm

Contact Rosmarie Buxbaum: rosmarieb@rogers.com

MEXICAN TRAIN (DOMINOES)

2nd Wednesday of Each Month - Please reference the flyer or Fitness & Recreation Calendar | 6:15pm

Contact Rosmarie Buxbaum: rosmarieb@rogers.com

BRIDGE – Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday at 6pm

For meeting location, please contact Karen Clark: kcnurse@comcast.net

OPEN BRIDGE – Fridays | 12:30pm - Beau Room

Please bring $1!

Contact Karen Clark: kcnurse@comcast.net

MAHJONG – Saturdays 9:30am, Mondays 12:30pm – Beau Room

SAMBA – Wednesdays | 12:30pm

For meeting location, please contact Janet Goldberg: janetg155@gmail.com

YOGA CLASSES – Fitness Center

Mobility Flow & Restore | Contact Leona Forbes: forbes4lyf@gmail.com

Level 1 Yoga | Tuesday 3pm | Contact Caryn Patterson

Yin Yang Yoga | Friday 9:30am | Contact Amber Thielen: ambermthielen@gmail.com

Restorative/Yin Yoga | Wednesday 1:30pm | Contact: Marjorie C: mcrawford7@verizon.net

Gentle Yoga | Wednesday 6:30pm | Contact Clorinda H: clorindaholland@yahoo.com

LINE DANCING – Fitness Center - Sunday | 1pm

Contact Donna Breeden: breedend2002@yahoo.com

DANCE AEROBICS – Fitness Center - Monday | 9am

Contact Barb Hyttel: bhyttel@att.net or 262.880.2777

There will be no classes during the summer. They will resume in the fall.

WATER AEROBICS – Monday, Wednesday and Friday | 10am | Clubhouse Pool

WATER VOLLEYBALL - Tuesday and Thursday | 10am | Clubhouse Pool

BOOK CLUB - Every 2nd Friday | 9:30am at the Tara Clubhouse in the Bonnie Room

CRAFT GROUP - Saturday | 10am in the Golf Shop Conference Room

BOWLING LEAGUE - Tuesdays at Bowlero Bowling Alley

Contact Pam Stevenson: pamste1@msn.com

RUMMIKUB GROUP – Thursdays | 1-3pm

Contact Judy Harris: mamajudy369@yahoo.com or Barbara DiPalma: barbara.dipalma16@gmail.com

PICKLEBALL PLAY – Monday - Saturday | 8-12pm | Pickleball Court: 7095 Stone River Rd

Contact Mark Weaver: 309.583.2451 or Maw0260@hotmail.com

HOUSE COMMITTEE

MESSAGE FROM KIM RANDOLPH

Hello. I am Kim Randoph, the new chair of the Tara House Committee. My husband and I love living here. You can find me at water aerobics, bocce, book club and Friday night dancing!

In addition to myself, The Tara House Committee consists of the following volunteers: Diane Blades, John Bourjaily, Wendy Kokinda, David Krasnoff, Jodie Lawson, Denise Tomlinson and Susie Wolff.

At the first meeting of this committee in April, we discussed the need to establish clear goals that will benefit all us as owners and members, which we hope to share in next month’s newsletter. By working together, sharing ideas, and listening to one another, we can continue making our clubhouse and community spaces places we are proud of.

The refresh construction is right on target, timewise and in accordance with the budget. Thanks to Missy for sending progress videos for all to view on the Tara website.

Tickets will be sold on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday for the Queen of Hearts Drawing. They are $2.00 CASH ONLY. The drawings are every Thursday in the Grille Room at 6pm. Watch for the email flyer with rules and additional information coming out. Congrats to our winners Sharon Groseclose, Kyle Frazier and Nancy Levine.

The jackpot continues to grow. As a friend has told me-“Can’t win if you are not In.” Happy Hour drink prices on Thursday for the drawing and dinner service. THE JACKPOT CONTINUES TO GROW WITH A PORTION OF THE MONIES GO TO THE CLUB’S CAPITAL PROJECT FUND. THE JACKPOT IS OVER $4,500.00 AND GROWING.

Stay informed by reading the minutes of the different committees on Tara’s website.

Thank you for showing kindness and respect as we all work together to make our community a truly special place. Please email compliments and concerns that you would like the House Committee to be made aware of to kimkayrandolph@gmail.com .

Sincerely,

Kim Randolph
Photo by Glenda Wolfe

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Member Spotlight – Sue Sackman

Sue Sackman has been a member of Tara since 1999. She and her husband, Dave, moved from Michigan to Florida to be closer to their mothers. They initially lived on Peachtree before relocating to Twelve Oaks seven years ago. Originally from Michigan, Sue attended Wayne State University and Michigan State University. Her professional background spans personnel, insurance, publishing, education, and business—experience she has generously shared through her many years of volunteer service at Tara.

In her 26 years at Tara, this is the first year Sue is not serving on a committee.

Her impressive list of involvement includes:

• Niners Member and President (2 years)

• Women’s Interclub

• EWGA/LPGA Board Member (9 years)

• Employee Recognition Committee (multiple years)

• ARC Committee (7 years, including 3 as Chair)

• House Committee

• Social Committee

• Golf Committee – Niners Representative

• Finance Committee – Secretary (2 years)

• Election Committee (8 years)

• Trivia Host

• Member of the TWGA

Sue describes herself as “a people person,” which is what inspired her to get involved. She has enjoyed meeting new people and learning more about the club through her service. Her time on the Finance Committee was especially meaningful, giving her valuable insight into club planning and financial decision-making. Over the years, she notes that club renovations have been among the most challenging issues facing members.

Sue enjoys golfing, lunches at the club, and Wine Down Wednesday. She also loves reading and staying connected with her children and six grandchildren. Her favorite hole on the course is #13—where Dave scored 3 holesin-one. Above all, Sue appreciates the people at Tara. She describes them as “the nicest,” noting that friends and neighbors are always ready with an invitation or a helping hand. For those looking to get involved, Sue recommends attending the New Member Mingle happy hours—a great way to meet people and make connections. She has found Tara to be a small world, often running into people from her past.

We thank Sue for her endless hours of dedication and service to the Tara community. Her commitment is an inspiration!

Photo by Carolyn Ginex

SOCIAL COMMITTEE

MESSAGE FROM JODI SCHLETER

The Tara Golf & Country Club Social Committee is excited to welcome the 2026 committee as we continue our mission of fostering connection, community spirit, and memorable experiences for residents through engaging social events and volunteerism.

This year’s committee reflects a wonderful blend of full-time residents, seasonal residents, working professionals, retirees, seasoned volunteers, and new members bringing fresh ideas, energy, and perspectives to the team. Together, we look forward to building on the strong sense of community that makes Tara such a special place to call home.

2026 Social Committee Leadership & Members:

• Debbie Anderson

• Laurie Cagle

• Joan Clark

• Carrie Dadas

• Carolyn Ginex – Vice Chair

• Wendy Gordon

• Helene Johnson – Secretary

• Carol Matthews

• Jodi Schleter – Chair

One of the final highlights of the season was the annual Derby event, which brought outstanding participation, laughter, and community spirit to Tara. The event raised approximately $1,810 between the Win Pool and Exacta Pool, allowing the committee to donate $333 to Oneco Elementary School to support teacher appreciation activities and Field Day.

Adding to the excitement, member Cindy Ferguson and a guest walked away big winners on a longshot bet and collected impressive winnings from the event. The Derby festivities also included enthusiastic participation in the Hat Contest and Best Dressed Contest, creating a fun and festive atmosphere enjoyed by all.

A special thank you goes to David Krasnoff for his support, guidance, and encouragement surrounding this year’s Derby event and for helping make it a success.

The Social Committee is also excited to support our Tara employees during Employee Appreciation Week. On Thursday, June 26, from 9:00–10:30 a.m., the committee will host a complimentary doughnut and coffee bar for staff. Members who would like to volunteer, stop by, or simply say thank you to our incredible Tara team are warmly encouraged to join us. In addition, Tara staff will enjoy an employee appreciation outing at PopStroke on June 28 as a thank you for all they do for our community throughout the year.

The committee is excited for the year ahead and looks forward to creating fun opportunities for neighbors to connect, celebrate, and continue strengthening the Tara community.

Photo by Larry Bailey

STAY IN THE KNOW

KEEP CONNECTED THROUGH THE CLUB’S SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS.

JOIN THE RESIDENTS OF TARA GROUP ON FACEBOOK FOR COMMUNITY INFORMATION & UPDATES.

COULD YOU NAME THE TARA MEMBER ON PAGE 6?

GUESS THE MEMBER: Bobby Coughlin Tara member since 2003

Submit your photos to the communications committee for upcoming issues!

Kentucky Derby Best Hat: Jodi Schleter | Best Dressed: Shelley McNeil
Kentucky Derby

TARA JUNE COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE

MEETINGS ARE HELD IN THE GOLF SHOP CONFERENCE ROOM*

*Unless otherwise noted - Calendar is subject to change

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

2026 - 2027

ARC

June 17: 3PM

COMMUNICATIONS

June 12: 10AM

FINANCE

June 16: 3PM

FITNESS & RECREATION

June 15: 3PM

GOLF

June 8: 1:30PM

GREENS

June 22: 9AM

HOUSE

June 3: 3PM

LONG RANGE PLANNING

June 9: 3PM

SOCIAL

June 10 : 3PM

ARC: Barb Nielson, Co-Chair: 402-415-1939 | bnielsen55@yahoo.com

COMMUNICTIONS: Dee Sollenberger, Chair: 317-697-2685 | deesollen@gmail.com

FINANCE: Cliff Lanning, Chair: 616-293-8212 | clifflanning@gmail.com

FITNESS & REC: Carol Miers, Chair: 941-374-2027 | mierscarol@gmail.com

GREENS: Mike Bohardt, Chair: 215-499-7605 | gmbohardt@yahoo.com

GOLF: Clint Sollenberger, Chair: 317-697-2690 | clintons58@gmail.com

HOUSE: Kim Randolph, Chair: 810-357-6199 | kimkayrandolph@gmail.com

LONG RANGE PLANNING: Jim Kokinda, Chair: 267-800-6916 | jameskokinda@gmail.com

SOCIAL: Jodi Schleter, Chair: 469-323-2412 | Jodi.schleter99@gmail.com

Tara

Golf & Country Club

Board Meeting Dates 2026-2027

Meetings will be held on Mondays at 3:00 p.m.

In the clubhouse dining room unless otherwise noted

May 4th, 2026

June 1st, 2026

No meeting scheduled for July.

No meeting scheduled in August.

September 14th, 2026

Monday, October 19th, 2026 (annual budget workshop) 9:00 a.m.

October 26th, 2026

November 30th, 2026

No meeting scheduled for December 2026

January 4th, 2027

February 1st, 2027

February 8th, 2027 (Volunteer Appreciation Night 5:00 to 7:00 pm)

March 1st, 2027

March 8, 2027 (meet the candidates 3:00 to 5:00 pm)

April 5th, 2027

April 12th, 2027

Annual Meeting of the Membership/Election @ 9:00 a.m.

State of the Club

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