Wellness is made up of five dimensions, each having its own characteristics which can contribute to a happier, healthier, more fulfilled life. Life at Trilogy communities revolves around whole person wellness, where every day you have the chance to enhance every dimension of wellness in your life because we intentionally weave wellness into all we do and almost every experience you can choose at our Clubs.
We know we are at our best when we open ourselves up to new people, new experiences, and new friendships. Having relationships with others has been noted as a key contributor to overall well-being.
True wellness involves growth of the mind, the spirit, and, perhaps most importantly, the body. Physical Fitness means we exert control over our nutrition, endurance, strength, and flexibility.
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VERTERRA® — A TRILOGY® BOUTIQUE COMMUNITY® NEAR SEATTLE
TRILOGY® VALOR BOISE METRO AREA
TRILOGY® BICKFORD NEAR SACRAMENTO
TRILOGY® SAN JUAN OAKS 30 MILES NE OF MONTEREY
NEVINATM — A TRILOGY® BOUTIQUE COMMUNITY® PASO ROBLES
TRILOGY® SUNSTONE LAS VEGAS
TRILOGY® AT MONARCH DUNES NIPOMO
COMING SOON
TRILOGY® AT LAKE FREDERICK LAKE FREDERICK
THREEOAKSTM – A TRILOGY® BOUTIQUE COMMUNITY® CULPEPER
KINSTON® – A TRILOGY® BOUTIQUE COMMUNITY® LOVELAND
TRILOGY® LAKE NORMAN CHARLOTTE METRO AREA
TRILOGY® AT VERDE RIVERTM NORTH SCOTTSDALE
TRILOGY® AT WICKENBURG RANCH WICKENBURG
ENCANTERRA® , A TRILOGY® RESORT COMMUNITY QUEEN CREEK
RIDGECRESTTM — A TRILOGY® BOUTIQUE COMMUNITY® PEORIA
COMMUNITIES ON MAP ARE ACTIVELY SELLING HOMES
CONVERDETM–A TRILOGY® BOUTIQUE COMMUNITY® HOUSTON
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
ANDREA MINOGUE
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
MORGAN CARDEN
JACKIE HOBSON HESS
LISA PENNINGTON
SENIOR CONTRIBUTORS
SHAUNA FARMER
VERONICA FREGOSO
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS
KIM ALEXIS
AMANDA BENTON
TODD DAIL
SOPHIA DECOLATI
MICHAEL ESTRADA
KATIE EVERETT
NICOLE HARTSHORN
BEN KEILHOLTZ
KELLY LEID
MATTIE MCCHESNEY
NIKI MCNEIL
RYAN NOLL
SARA RAINEY
TARA SHORROCK
DR. AMY WHITTINGTON
PHOTO:
PETE ALVAREZ | Trilogy® Lake Norman
CONSTANCE AMEND | Trilogy® at Verde RiverTM
CATHERINE AUSTIN | Verterra®– A Trilogy® Boutique Community®
BEVERLY BELL | Trilogy® at The Vineyards
CHERYL CAVAHLO | Trilogy® Valor
LINDA CIRILLO | Trilogy® Lake Norman
STEVE COHEN | Trilogy® Lake Norman
JAN COURTNEY | Trilogy® Valor
MARIAN DENTON | Trilogy® Lake Norman
KAREN DOERZAPH | Encanterra®, a Trilogy® Resort Community
SCOTT DUKE | Trilogy® at Vistancia
JANE ENGLISH | Trilogy® at Verde RiverTM
SUSAN HOPKINS | Trilogy® at Lake Frederick
JOHN KENNEDY | Trilogy® at Lake Frederick
BARBARA KLEVE | Verterra®– A Trilogy® Boutique Community®
JOHN KLOSTER | Encanterra®, a Trilogy® Resort Community
MONICA MARTINEK | Trilogy® San Juan Oaks
KENT RIDDLE | Trilogy® Lake Norman
NEIL SIDDEN | Trilogy® Lake Norman
CAROL SINGLETON | Trilogy® at Verde RiverTM
TANNI WHITLOCK | Trilogy® Valor
PEGGY WOLF | Trilogy® Bickford
GORDON YAMAMOTO | Trilogy® Bickford
23: Why lifestyle comes first at new Trilogy® communities
26: Traveling the world and making friends with Trilogy®
41: Barbara Kleve’s relentless spirit impacts many at Verterra® – A Trilogy® Boutique Community®
51: A Guinness World Recordbreaking hike made possible through friendship
78: A look back at a job well done as we bid farewell to the face of lifestyle
We believe that the feeling you get when you make a new friend is among the best feelings you can experience. So we create environments where “community” has meaning far beyond streets and sidewalks and sticks and bricks. Places where each new day is an opportunity for deeper happiness and, for many, personal transformation. We believe with all our souls and hearts and spirit that where you live can make you happier, and that being happier is the true, real, authentic – and often unspoken or unrealized –goal of all of us.
While the “Letter from the Editor” has traditionally been written from the perspective of one person, that no longer feels quite right. It takes an entire team to bring this magazine to life and this year more than ever, the #MyTrilogyLife Magazine team has leaned on each other in new ways.
A lot has changed for our team this year, prompting us to pause, reflect, appreciate, and support one another more deeply. Communication. Collaboration. Connection. There may be no “I” in “team,” but sometimes we wonder, should there be a “C”?
These three C’s of teamwork have been our compass. Together with the incredible team members at every Trilogy® property and, of course, our Members, we’ve worked together to bring these stories to life.
As you read through this edition of the magazine, you will notice the five pillars that move with you: Social Connection (Leading with Lifestyle on page 23), Physical Fitness (Never Give Up on page 41) Intellectual Enrichment (Reaching for the Stars on page 44), Emotional Confidence (Going For It on page 51), and Spiritual Well-Being (Find Harmony Through Sound Healing on page 57).
These pillars form the foundation of every Trilogy community, reflecting our shared commitment to wellness and to helping you experience the best possible version of your life.
On behalf of our team, we thank you for sharing your stories with us, so that together, we can bring you the #MyTrilogyLife Magazine. We are proud to serve you, to share your journeys, and to help create a community that enriches how you live.
We hope these pages leave you feeling inspired - to take that first step, join a new club, connect with a neighbor, or try something new. Whatever you choose, know there are always others willing to help. Just like on our team, all you have to do is ask.
Sincerely,
The #MyTrilogyLife Team
ALL MONTH LONG | January offers a fresh start, and throughout the month, your Club’s lifestyle and fitness team will be offering plenty of opportunities to help you start your year the right way!
9th – 15th | TRILOGY® LOVES CHOCOLATE WEEK
Enjoy wine and chocolate tastings, restaurant specials, and more.
ALL MONTH LONG | Get moving with fitness bingo, fitness-themed events, and specials in our #MTL Shop.
15th | TRILOGY® BRACKET CHALLENGE PICKS OPEN
Registration opens, then get ready to complete your brackets and enjoy this Trilogy®-wide competition.
17th | ST. PATRICK’S DAY
Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! Join in the festivities including Happier Hour and dinner specials.
5th | EASTER SUNDAY
20th – 26th | TRILOGY® PETSTOCK WEEK™
It’s all about our four-legged Members with playdates, pet-themed cooking demos, educational sessions, and lots of fun.
22nd | EARTH DAY
11th – 17th | TRILOGY® WINE WEEK
Enjoy wine tastings, winery visits, wine sales, and much more.
25th | MEMORIAL DAY
26th – June 2nd | WOMEN’S GOLF WEEK
JUNE | Barrels & BBQ
4th | NATIONAL CHEESE DAY
15th – 21st | TRILOGY® BOURBON WEEK
An expanded Bourbon Week makes room for tastings, mixology demonstrations and maybe a trip to the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky.
4th | INDEPENDENCE DAY
13th – 19th | BEAT THE HEAT WEEK
Cool off with pool parties, frozen treats, and plenty of fun indoor activities.
19th | NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY
ALL MONTH LONG | Commit to be fit with special fitness programming all month long!
10th – 16th | TRILOGY® EXPLORATION WEEK
Try something new, either on your own or at the Club.
7th | LABOR DAY
13th | GRANDPARENTS DAY 14th – 20th | TRILOGY® RESTAURANT WEEK
Our culinary team will be offering a variety of menus to tempt your taste buds.
28th | GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY
10th | WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
12th – 18th | TRILOGY® CRAFT BEER WEEK
31st | HALLOWEEN
ALL MONTH LONG | GAIT-TO-GATE Returns
Get your steps in while benefitting a great cause with our annual step-based challenge.
2nd – 8th | GIVE & GROW WEEK
Get out, volunteer, and give your time to help others.
16th – 22nd | TRILOGY® CUP OF COZY WEEK
Snuggle up with something warm during this week full of comfort.
ALL MONTH LONG | Take part in your community’s traditions or celebrate your own while you take in all that this special season has to offer.
31st | NEW YEAR’S EVE
It’s the biggest event of the year! Celebrate memories from the past year and start the new one off with a bang.
BY LISA PENNINGTON WITH NIKI MCNEIL, TODD DAIL, MICHAEL ESTRADA, NICOLE HARTSHORN AND TARA SHORROCK
At Trilogy® communities, community isn’t just a concept, it’s a calling. At the heart of every new Trilogy community is the very first hire: the Lifestyle Director. Part event architect, part community catalyst, and part magician of meaningful moments, these dynamic individuals are the spark that ignites connection. With no Club, no Member-led Clubs, and often no more than a few Members to start, they begin weaving the fabric of community from day one.
Their mission? To create a vibrant, welcoming environment where Members feel a true sense of belonging.
Central to the Trilogy lifestyle are the five pillars of Wellness: Social Connection, Physical Fitness, Intellectual Enrichment, Emotional Confidence, and Spiritual Well-being. These pillars guide how Lifestyle Directors help Members live, grow, and thrive together.
Let’s meet a few of the Lifestyle Directors from our newest communities, each one bringing their own unique energy, creativity, and heart to the Trilogy experience.
Niki McNeil | RIDGECREST TM - A Trilogy® Boutique Community® PEORIA, ARIZONA
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
I’m a connector and creator who thrives on bringing people together through meaningful, memorable experiences. With a background in creativity, education, and community engagement, I’m here to help make life at Ridgecrest vibrant, joyful, and full of opportunities to connect.
What lights me up? Seeing Members find joy in the everyday. Whether it’s a shared laugh, a new hobby, or a friendship formed over coffee - I’m passionate about designing experiences that make people feel seen, welcomed, and inspired.
Creativity and connection are my cornerstones. From thoughtfully curated events to outside-the-box ideas, I’m here to spark curiosity and build a community where everyone feels like they truly belong.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT LIFESTYLE LEADER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
My role goes beyond planning events, it's about creating a lifestyle that supports wellness, fosters connection, and celebrates the freedom to live fully. I focus on whole-person wellness through movement, mindfulness, creativity, and learning. I build spaces where neighbors can connect and I offer diverse, flexible programming so everyone can explore, grow, or simply enjoy life at their own pace. It’s not about pressure, it’s about possibilities.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE COMMUNITY?
My goal is to help Members live joyful, connected lives filled with opportunities to thrive. I aim to create inclusive spaces where relationships grow naturally, support whole-person wellness through thoughtful programming, and offer flexible experiences that honor each Member’s unique lifestyle. I want Ridgecrest to be a place where creativity is sparked, curiosity is encouraged, and everyone feels genuinely welcomed and valued. Most of all, I hope to foster a true sense of belonging, where every Member feels not just part of a community, but truly at home.
Todd Dail | VERTERRA ® - A Trilogy® Boutique Community® BONNEY LAKE, WASHINGTON
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.
I’d say I’m a bit of a Renaissance Man, I love doing a lot of different things and tend to do them fairly well! That’s helped me be hands-on in my community, doing things with my Members, not just for them. My Members know me and my family because they’ve welcomed us into their lives and that’s something I truly value.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT LIFESTYLE LEADER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
I love getting to know people, what they’re passionate about, what they want to learn, and then helping make that magic happen. It’s a win-win! I find it fascinating to hear about the paths Members took before coming to Trilogy. Everyone has a story, and I enjoy connecting those stories and helping neighbors discover shared interests. I’m a good listener, and I think that’s key. Whether it’s through a great conversation, a culinary experience, or even a themed costume event, I love creating moments that bring people together.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
My biggest goal is to create harmony, what I like to call Verterra Harmony. I want everyone to feel comfortable, connected, and included. No cliques, just community.
I also love helping our current Members share their passion for Trilogy with guests that visit the community. At our block parties, we use different name tags for Members and guests to encourage warm welcomes and easy introductions. It’s those little touches that help build a strong, connected community.
Michael Estrada | TRILOGY ® Bickford LINCOLN, CALIFORNIA
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.
I’ve been in the hospitality world since my 20s, starting at the front desk of the Ritz-Carlton. I eventually stepped into leadership positions, including at Trilogy® at The Polo Club, and now here at Bickford. In this role, I like to think of myself as the “cruise director” for this communal ship on land. I love being the Mayor of Fun and the creator of all things entertaining for our community.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT LIFESTYLE LEADER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
My Members call me a superstar, and I think that’s because I wear a lot of hats. I cook, mix drinks, plan events, troubleshoot tech, and make sure everything runs smoothly. But more than that, I listen. I communicate clearly and respond to what Members need. I’m passionate about building a well-rounded calendar that touches on all aspects of wellness. I’m a natural connector, and I love bringing people together. It’s just part of who I am.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
My biggest goal is to continue building a strong sense of community, especially as we welcome new Members and await the completion of our Club. Even without a physical hub, we’re creating top-tier programming that blends national initiatives with locally inspired events. I believe in listening, really listening, to Members to gather feedback and build trust. That’s how we grow together.
Nicole Hartshorn | TRILOGY ® San Juan Oaks HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
I have lived in Hollister for 26 years and am grateful every day for the beautiful area we live in. My genuine happiness expands when I can provide experiences for connection, meaningful relationship-building, support, laughter, and an active lifestyle.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT LIFESTYLE LEADER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
I lead with honesty, integrity, and the ability to be fully present. Creating a warm, welcoming environment is incredibly important to me, especially for the Members who have entrusted us with providing a safe, engaging community. I’m passionate about fostering meaningful conversations and connections, and I’m continually inspired by hearing what excites Members.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HOLD FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
My goal is to enrich the lives of Members by listening deeply, caring with intention, and creating meaningful opportunities for connection. I strive to foster a community where everyone feels valued, seen, and supported, whether through engaging social events, inclusive fitness activities, or spaces for intellectual and emotional growth. I love helping Members explore new interests, build confidence, and simply enjoy being themselves. Even small moments, like a shared laugh or a peaceful walk, can bring joy and a sense of belonging. My hope is to cultivate a culture of kindness, curiosity, and calm, where every Member feels empowered to live fully and connect deeply.
Tara Shorrock | NEVINA ™ - A Trilogy® Boutique Community® PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I’m a blend of many roles: Registered Nurse, mother of four, community volunteer, event planner, and fundraiser. Each experience has shaped who I am today. People are what make me tick! I’m constantly inspired by the stories and life experiences of the Members I meet. These connections help me create spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and like they truly belong. I believe that sense of belonging is not only essential but it’s the secret to living a longer, more joyful life in a Trilogy community.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT LIFESTYLE LEADER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY?
I focus on creating environments that are warm, inclusive, and genuinely welcoming. I love listening to Members’ thoughts and ideas, and then turning those into creative, memorable experiences that spark joy and build real friendships.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE COMMUNITY?
My goal is simple: bring the fun! Many Members have spent decades building careers, raising families, and caring for others. Now, it’s their time to explore, connect, and live life to the fullest with people who share that same spirit. I also believe in the power of purpose and lifelong learning. I want the choice to call Nevina home to feel like the best decision they’ve made in years. I’m here to help this next chapter (what I like to call The University of 55) be one filled with joy, growth, and a whole lot of heart. n
Within the Trilogy® by Shea Homes® communities, our mission has always been to offer our Members the best possible opportunity to live the best version of their lives. To achieve this, we recognize that true innovation isn't born in a boardroom; it's the product of listening to our current and prospective Members, and understanding how to best support their pursuit of a happier, more connected life.
This insight is why we are so excited to introduce the Trilogy® Boutique Communities® (TBCs). These new communities — built on a more personal scale and guided by what we’ve learned over the course of more than two-and-a-half decades — allow us to bring our communities to previously unavailable locations, meeting more guests where they are.
And the Open Wellness + Social Clubs that sit at their heart are a similar opportunity. An expression of all that Members have loved over the years, Open is both rooted in — and an evolution of — the most important parts of what make a Trilogy community uniquely Trilogy.
Join us as we explore the Open Wellness + Social Club concept with one of our most experienced leaders, Shea Homes Vice President of Member Experience Ben Keilholtz, who has been with the group for 25 years.
MTL: Ben, thanks for taking the time to speak with us about the new Trilogy Boutique Communities. These communities have seemingly allowed Trilogy to extend into new locations, most recently Texas and Colorado (in addition to Virginia, California, Arizona, and Washington). At the heart of each of these new communities is a distinctive central amenity. Can you tell us about this new concept?
BEN: First, thanks for having me here. I’m excited to share the story. “Open” is the name of the Clubs in all our Trilogy Boutique Communities. These Clubs –like in traditional Trilogy resort communities – serve as the centerpiece of these communities. They are fluid spaces where Members and friends can gather to eat, meet, drink, play, and focus on their wellness.
MTL: Why “Open”?
BEN: We found that the most straightforward answer was the best one. Our Clubs are designed to be a doorway to a new and better version of life. The word "Open" reflects this spirit: a life where calendars, minds, and connections are open and available to be explored. It signifies a place where our core values — Freedom, Wellness, and Connection — converge, so long as you’re open to it.
MTL: While we’re on the topic, why “Wellness + Social Club”?
BEN: It clearly defines the comprehensive experience we are delivering. People are increasingly recognizing how their daily choices — around nutrition, exercise, engagement, and mental acuity — directly impact their quality of life. The term Wellness + Social Club captures our full commitment to the Core Deliverables: Social Connection, Physical Fitness, Intellectual Enrichment, Emotional Confidence, and Spiritual Well-being.
MTL: What similarities exist between the Resort Community Clubs and the new Open Clubs?
BEN: Fundamentally, the ideas of the Trilogy lifestyle execution remain fully intact. Our focus is still on creating amazing communities where discerning owners can flourish through Freedom, Wellness, and Connection. We will execute the same national programming, including the Keynote Speaker Series and our philanthropic endeavors. Member-led Clubs will continue to be a cornerstone. And importantly, the staff-to-Member and the home count-to-Club square footage ratios remain very similar.
MTL: What about the differences?
BEN: The main difference is the scale of the communities — typically 200–500 homes compared to 750–3,500+ in our resort communities. This led to a deliberate change in our physical space design. We are moving away from multiple, segmented experiences and instead offering an inclusive space that brings all social experiences together in a fluid and flexible way — everything, everywhere, all at once, if you will.
MTL: How did the team go about deciding what should be included and what could be looked at differently?
BEN: We prioritized listening to the needs of our Members, focusing on what enables connection. At a multi-day session that involved the perspectives of Members, prospects, the frontline teams, and senior leadership, our team reviewed and discussed space allocations to ensure the Boutique Clubs could accommodate everything programmed in a traditional resort community. The result was a design inspired by vibrant boutique hotel lobbies, where diverse guests coexist and enjoy various activities, creating more energy and connection.
MTL: Are there any issues you are paying special attention to as the Open concept is launched?
BEN: It will be important for our teams to be able to show the value of a shared space. Outside of a few exceptions, reservations are generally for scheduling and planning, not to ensure exclusive use. “Body heat”, for lack of a better term, is what allows for more frequent and deeper social connection. We want to facilitate it anytime we can.
MTL: What has you most excited?
BEN: The intentional design of the new spaces. In the wellness space, Open Gym incorporates the newest technology from TechnoGym, Hyperice, and Therabody (among others). And, for the first time, some technology innovations will allow us to launch a full group fitness schedule on day one. But the most exciting part will be the communities themselves — seeing neighbors become friends, and friends become adopted family.
MTL: Where will we see the first Open?
BEN: Sales are active in a number of Trilogy Boutique Communities right now, including Nevina in Paso Robles, CA; Ridgecrest in Peoria, AZ; ThreeOaks in Culpeper, VA; and Verterra in Bonney Lake, WA. Communities in Texas and Colorado are not far behind. Based on current construction schedules, the first to have the Open Club complete will be Verterra in Washington.
The Wellness + Social Clubs are not defined by walls, but by experiences. The Clubs reflect an everything, everywhere, all at once philosophy, organized around six core experiences:
This central social area is inspired by stylish boutique hotel lobbies. It's a fluid hub for connection, designed for Members to gather, play games, relax, and meet with clubs in a welcoming environment. The inviting seating flexes to create an ever-changing community atmosphere, fostering energy and connection.
More than just a restaurant, Open Bar is a flexible dining and socializing space designed to complement the adjacent Open Space. Members can nosh, sip, dine, and unwind with friends. It offers high-quality food and drinks and functions as a flexible gathering spot for cocktails and conversation.
These wellness-focused facilities showcase the latest design trends and advanced technology for strength, cardio, and recovery. The facilities will feature top-tier equipment and host a full group fitness schedule, including instructor-led and virtual classes from day one.
This area encompasses stylishly-designed outdoor spaces for physical activity, games, fun, and relaxation. It includes courts, pools, and architecturally distinct landscapes. The design carefully balances hard and soft surfaces to achieve a feeling of peace and serenity, allowing Members to enjoy fresh air and Mother Nature.
This experience highlights the external environment, including walking, hiking, and biking opportunities immediately surrounding the community. It connects physical fitness with nature, including guided off-site excursions. This fosters connection, a love for the outdoors, and supports wellness goals.
Set up slightly differently in each Club to reflect the regional distinctions that exist, Open Mind focuses on Intellectual Enrichment and Emotional Confidence. This area emphasizes lifelong learning, with resources to exercise your mind and pursue inner peace.
Ben Keilholtz is the Vice President of Member Experience for Trilogy by Shea Homes. His role is to support and guide the teams responsible for ensuring the Trilogy lifestyle promise is delivered seamlessly across all communities. Ben lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with his wife Stacey and his rescue pup, Birdie.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article regarding community concepts, amenities (including the Open Wellness + Social Club spaces), operational details, and launch timelines constitutes forward-looking statements and is subject to change without notice. All Club designs, programming, and schedules are presented for illustrative and conceptual purposes only. Please review the specific governing documents and community plans for any Trilogy Boutique Community you are interested in for the most current and detailed information.
BY DR. AMY WHITTINGTON
Over the course of the last few decades, there has been a drastic shift in medicine towards the inclusion of integrative and preventive medicine. Both the baby boomers and Gen X have been instrumental in pushing for an approach to healthcare in a manner that includes preventive screens, hormone optimization, lifestyle recommendations and more to stay healthy. People are no longer satisfied with simply avoiding disease - they want to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally into their later decades. Originally dominated with alternative practitioners like myself, just a couple of decades ago any type of integrative medicine was considered “fringe” at best.
But, with a significant increase in demand, many traditional physicians now offer an integrative spin in their own practices by pursuing further education in a type of integrative medicine called “functional medicine.” Those of us formerly on the fringe welcome the shift, since a combination of integrative and traditional medicine has always been the goal. Seeking both functional and standard healthcare allows you the best care possible, both for illness, and for continued wellness. If you are not seeking a combination of treatment, either with a dually-trained physician or with a combination of physicians, you might be missing out on securing optimal health.
Functional medicine is a systems-based, patient-centered approach that aims to identify and address the root causes of disease. Unlike conventional medicine, which often relies on pharmaceuticals to treat specific diagnoses, functional medicine views the body as an interconnected holistic system that includes immune, hormonal, digestive, neurological systems, and more, that must function harmoniously for optimal health.
This approach combines the best of modern science with integrative strategies such as lifestyle medicine, further and sometimes vast diagnostic testing, nutrition, stress management, gut and microbiome health, and more. Nutrition, supplement, and prescription strategies often focus on decreasing inflammation, stabilizing blood sugar, balancing hormones, optimizing digestion, sleep, energy, and decreasing the damage that causes aging and disease.
Hormonal health is a central pillar of functional medicine. Practitioners frequently assess and treat imbalances in sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone), adrenal hormones (like cortisol and DHEA), and thyroid hormones. Sometimes these hormones are supplemented directly to address a decline that comes with age, and sometimes optimization is pursued with support of gut health, decreasing stress, or addressing nutrient deficiencies. For women, functional medicine is often sought during perimenopause and menopause to ease symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and weight gain. Men have a similar decline in testosterone that leads to andropause, a similar presentation to menopause with decreased energy, sleep disturbance, and mood changes. Functional and integrative practitioners have played a crucial role in the surge of BHRT (bio-identical hormone replacement) as an option for optimal health, exposing errors in studies that brought unfounded fears in use of hormone therapy, and bringing to light numerous new studies that show not only low risk for most, but many benefits of hormone therapy including better sleep, better energy, improvement in bone health, decreased cardiovascular risk, decreased dementia risk, and more. Functional medicine does not treat hormone decline as an inevitable part of aging. Instead, it frames hormonal balance as critical to energy, mental clarity, metabolic function, and prevention well into older age.
Chronic conditions, too, are often viewed through a different lens, with conditions like diabetes, obesity, autoimmune disorders, and hormonal imbalances often treated with a combination of traditional medicines used with lifestyle changes that serve to improve gut health, decrease inflammation, and address overall balance and immunity.
Gen X and baby boomers have played a significant role in the acceptance of integrative, naturopathic, and functional medicine’s rise. Both generations are aging and facing the challenges of midlife including menopause, andropause, fatigue, cognitive decline, and metabolic dysfunction, while simultaneously rejecting the notion that aging means a steady decline in quality of life. Unlike earlier generations, these groups are more empowered with information, more proactive about health, and more skeptical of pharmaceuticals as the only solution. They seek care models that offer partnership, individualized attention, and an emphasis on longevity and vitality.
While functional medicine is still evolving, its momentum shows no sign of slowing. Major hospital systems have opened functional and integrative medicine departments, and thousands of MDs, naturopaths, DOs, and chiropractors are seeking further training into functional and other types of alternative medicine to better serve their patients.
As demand grows for prevention-oriented healthcare, this medicine is increasingly viewed not as fringe, but as the future. With its focus on root-cause healing, hormone balance, and optimal aging, it offers a new standard of care that allows for healthy longevity. n
Each Trilogy® community cultivates an environment of connection and growth, with our Member-led Clubs playing a key role in enriching these experiences year after year. Our annual Clubbies offer recognition to a few of the many Member-led Clubs that bring our communities together. This year, we are celebrating clubs nominated for the following award categories: Focus on Fitness, Confident Clubs, Invigorating Intellectuals, Social Synergy, and Mind, Body, and Spirit.
The Member-led Club that touches each of the five pillars of wellness and physically challenges its Members.
WINNER: Bike Club, Verterra® - A Trilogy® Boutique Community®
HONORABLE MENTION: Hiking Club, Trilogy® Sunstone
LOOK OUT FOR: Bowling Club of Valor, Trilogy® Valor
This award showcases the Member-led Club that challenges emotional confidence and pushes Members outside their comfort zone.
WINNER: Valor Welcome Club, Trilogy® Valor
HONORABLE MENTION: Men’s Health and Life Issues, Trilogy ® at Verde RiverTM
LOOK OUT FOR: Trilogy Single Friends, Trilogy® at Lake Frederick
These Members seek to understand through continued learning.
WINNER: Astronomy Club, Trilogy® Lake Norman
HONORABLE MENTION: Retired Educator’s Club, Encanterra® , a Trilogy® Resort Community
LOOK OUT FOR: Creative Arts Community, Trilogy® at Verde RiverTM
These Member-led Clubs create times so good that Members can’t get enough!
WINNER: Singles Group, Trilogy® at Tehaleh®
HONORABLE MENTION: Travel Club, Trilogy® at Lake Frederick
LOOK OUT FOR: Italian American Club, Trilogy® at Verde RiverTM
WINNER: Movers & Shakers, Trilogy® at Tehaleh
HONORABLE MENTION: Nubian Club, Trilogy® Lake Norman
LOOK OUT FOR: Birding Club, Trilogy® at Lake Frederick
Trilogy communities are home to a wide range of activities, whether Club-facilitated or Member-led. There are countless ways to get involved with something you are passionate about or interested in trying out. If you’re considering starting or joining a Member-led Club, contact your local Lifestyle team or check out your Club’s Member-led Club Expo, which occurs once a year.
HOW TRILOGY ® BUILDS COMMUNITY BEFORE THE CLUB OPENS
BY
As the Trilogy® brand continues to grow, expanding with communities from coast to coast, the need to connect new Members with what makes a Trilogy community so special has never been more important.
Trilogy’s reputation for creating active, engaging, and fun-filled communities is a major reason why so many are drawn to its neighborhoods. But how do you deliver that signature lifestyle in the earliest stages of a community, before any amenities have been completed?
This year alone, Trilogy has brought new communities to Arizona, California, and Virginia. And while bringing these communities to life truly takes a village, in many ways, it all starts with one key person: the Lifestyle Director.
Before the foundation of the Club is laid, the Lifestyle Director is already on-site. Often working out of a sales center or model home, their mission is clear: foster connection, deliver experiences, and start building community among all Members from day one.
The task may be daunting, but it's not impossible. Doing so takes creativity, communication, and passion.
Creating lifestyle without a Clubhouse requires innovation and a deep understanding of both the Members and the surrounding environment. Lifestyle Directors find ways to activate the community using whatever resources are available - from nearby trails to local vendors to the shared excitement of a new beginning.
“My biggest goal is to continue building a strong sense of community, especially as we welcome new Members and await the completion of our Club,” explained Trilogy® Bickford Lifestyle Director Michael Estrada.
“Even without a physical Club, we're creating top-tier programming that blends national initiatives with locally inspired events, all while supporting our commitment to wellness.”
Take Todd Dail, Lifestyle Director at Verterra®, A Trilogy® Boutique Community® in Bonney Lake, Washington. Starting his role in 2023, Todd has built what he calls Verterra Harmony, a culture of community, connection, and inclusion. With the Club under construction (ground broke in June 2025 with doors expected to open in 2026), Todd has already brought the community to life by tapping into the rich surroundings of the Pacific Northwest.
With Mount Rainier as a stunning backdrop, Verterra’s setting offers endless possibilities and as a lifelong local, Todd has become the
perfect guide to help Members unlock that potential. From hiking, rafting, trips into Seattle, culinary demonstrations, and block parties, Todd has curated a lifestyle rich with variety and connection. A selfproclaimed “Renaissance Man,” his diverse talents have helped Members embrace the community from the start.
“Todd is so well-versed in so many things and has organized so many activities to bring us together,” said Barbara Kleve who moved into the community in September 2023, the second homeowner at Verterra.
“He has been very instrumental.”
This is the magic of Trilogy: creating authentic connections and vibrant lifestyles from the very beginning. And while every community is unique, each Lifestyle Director brings their own creative approach.
Michael transformed a model home into “The Hub” at Trilogy Bickford, giving Members a shared gathering space.
Nicole Hartshorn at Trilogy® San Juan Oaks launched “Walk and Roll with Nicole,” a popular group walking series that gets Members out and connected.
Tara Shorrock at Nevina™, A Trilogy® Boutique Community®, makes new Members feel welcome with surprise goodie bags delivered right to their doorsteps.
Niki McNeil at Ridgecrest™, A Trilogy® Boutique Community®, holds weekly Lifestyle Open Houses to meet and engage future homeowners.
Each of these Directors is building something bigger than a schedule of events, they’re creating a sense of belonging. A place where Members feel known, valued, and excited about what’s to come.
"Lifestyle is the heartbeat of every thriving community," said Sara Rainey, National Lifestyle Director for BlueStar Resort & Golf, Trilogy's trusted hospitality partner. "By leading with it, we create spaces where connection comes naturally from day one. It’s how we fulfill our promise to help Members live not just better, but truly happier lives."
At Trilogy communities, lifestyle always comes first because when people feel connected, the community thrives. And that’s the Trilogy difference . n
WITH TRILOGY’S EXPLORE 360
BY JACKIE HOBSON
The social connections Trilogy® communities are designed to foster don’t stop at the Club level, they extend across the entire Trilogy network.
National lifestyle programs make that possible in fun and engaging ways. The Bracket Challenge invites friendly competition during the college basketball championships. Gait-to-Gate gets Members moving in a step-tracking challenge between communities. Even Petstock’s annual Pet Photo Contest, connects Trilogy’s furry Members and their owners from coast to coast.
While each of these programs build connections, none do it quite like Explore 360, Trilogy’s inter-community travel program. Explore 360 curates unforgettable trips to destinations around the world, taking care of every detail from departure to return. All Members need to do is enjoy the journey and the company.
Since its inception, Explore 360 has taken Members to Africa, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, and beyond. Closer to home, one of its recent adventures was a weeklong exploration of Utah’s National Parks.
That’s the trip that caught the eye of Gordon Yamamoto, who moved into Trilogy® Bickford in December 2024. By March, he had already signed up. Hosted by Stephanie Griswold, Lifestyle Manager at Trilogy® Lake Norman, the trip promised an experience Gordon had always wanted.
“The Utah National Parks trip stood out to me because that is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Gordon shared. “This was the perfect opportunity to go and have every detail managed for you.”
Most travelers on Explore 360 trips come from the host Club’s community, but Gordon wasn’t deterred by not knowing anyone at the start. “The group was so welcoming,” he said. “I was nervous about being the only one from another community (a couple from Trilogy® at The Vineyards also came), but I knew I’d have things in common with the other Trilogy Members and that was true.”
Over seven days, the group explored Salt Lake City, Canyonlands, Monument Valley, Arches National Park, enjoyed wine tastings, and more. Gordon especially valued the camaraderie: “One of my favorite parts was how the group always looked out for each other. It’s the entire group’s responsibility to make sure each other is okay.”
Stephanie echoed that sentiment: “Explore 360 is a fantastic opportunity to build community across the Trilogy brand. Watching our Members from Lake Norman share a meal, a conversation, and an adventure
with Gordon was one of my favorite parts of our Utah excursion. Shared experiences bring people together whether you live on the East Coast or the West.”
For Gordon, joining Trilogy almost didn’t happen. After retiring from a career as a software specialist with companies like Apple, Microsoft, and IBM, he was torn between Trilogy Bickford and another nearby community. The deciding push came from a surprising source – a friend’s 25-year-old. “They asked me, would you rather live in Trilogy where there are all kinds of social options you can pick and choose from, or in a place that doesn’t offer those opportunities? That’s what sold me, and I’m so happy I did.”
Nearly a year later, Gordon has settled happily into Trilogy Bickford. He enjoys walks with Lifestyle Director Michael Estrada, spends time with neighbors in “The Hub” as they await the completion of their Club, and now has a collection of memories with a network of friends who once were strangers, all thanks to the opportunities and connections that Trilogy creates. n
BY TRILOGY ® BICKFORD MEMBER PEGGY WOLF
After over 40 years in the Bay Area, I knew it was time for something different. My home in Pleasanton had served me well, but after six decades of wear and tear, it was starting to show its age, and so was the lifestyle. I wanted more than just a new house; I wanted a fresh chapter. Something that felt vibrant. Energizing.
I had always dreamed of a brand new, energy-efficient home where I wouldn’t have to constantly worry about repairs.
But more than that, I longed for community, real community. The kind where neighbors become friends and there’s always something fun on the calendar. In Pleasanton, it felt like everyone was either too busy or in a different life stage. I missed the spontaneous, “hey, want to grab dinner?”, kind of connections.
So, I began my search. I toured several 55+ communities across Northern California. While some were nice on paper, in person they felt… quiet. Almost too quiet.
I’d drive through and not see a soul. That wasn’t what I was looking for. I wanted life, laughter, and activity. That changed the day I visited Trilogy® Bickford.
As soon as we came over the ridge and I saw the views, I said, “This is it.”
And it was. From that moment, everything just felt right.
Since moving in, the difference has been night and day. The community is buzzing with energy. People wave as you drive by. We help each other out. One of my neighbors even helped me decorate the new shelves around my fireplace! There’s a friendliness and warmth here that’s hard to describe unless you’ve experienced it.
Social life at Trilogy Bickford is thriving. I am a social human being and I thrive on that.
Here, I drive down the hill, see my neighbors walking and we all wave at each other. I love that.
Some of my neighbors went on a month-long cruise recently and when they got back, they said, “we are never going away for that long again because we missed everyone!”
We have paint-and-sip nights, trivia competitions, pilates classes, and more. It’s exactly what I was craving, an active, connected lifestyle without the congestion and noise of the Bay Area.
The surrounding area is beautiful too. I love being so close to downtown Lincoln, Auburn, and even Tahoe. The pace is slower here, more peaceful. And yet, there’s still plenty to do.
We even have a Lifestyle Director, Michael, who plans events like happy hours and bunco nights, and the community has become so close, we often organize our own get-togethers.
We’re all counting down the days until the Club opens. Between the pool, the restaurant, and all the social spaces, it’s going to be the cherry on top of what already feels like a dream life.
Honestly, I feel lucky every single day. Moving to Trilogy Bickford wasn’t just about downsizing or retiring, it was about upgrading my life. And I’ve never felt more at home. n
I
BY TRILOGY ® SAN JUAN OAKS MEMBER MONICA MARTINEK
After owning a thriving scrapbook store and scrapbook retreat company, I sold the business and retired in 2023. I had been living in Carmel for years, and after retiring, I knew I wanted a more active lifestyle. Carmel is beautiful, but it’s a little quieter than what I was looking for.
I first visited Trilogy® at La Quinta where my daughter lives and I loved the whole vibe and what they offered. The facilities were beautiful and everything was maintained so well. It was clear the people who lived there had a zest for life and wanted to get out, do things, and have fun, which is easy because at Trilogy® communities they bring the entertainment to you!
So, after retiring, I was sitting in my condo in Carmel, and I thought, let me see what Shea Homes® is doing around here. When I discovered Trilogy® San Juan Oaks, I knew it was where I needed to be. I moved into my new home in December 2024, and I am loving life.
I’ve met so many new friends here and now I’m bringing so many people out to look at the community, to hopefully join me out here.
Life here is only going to get better. My home is important, but to me, my life outside the home is even more important. I encourage anyone: singles, couples, and those looking for a rich and full life in their retired years, to check out Trilogy communities. If you end up at Trilogy San Juan Oaks, I look forward to welcoming you! n
BY RYAN NOLL WITH MEMBERS FROM TRILOGY ® VALOR
Every Saturday at 11:00am, whether inside River Six at Trilogy® Valor or out on the patio, the atmosphere fills with the gentle hum of conversation and the steady click-clack of knitting needles. The women who gather call themselves Chix with Stix - a playful name that perfectly matches the club’s fun, welcoming spirit. But they’re more than just a knitting club; they’re a circle of connection, bound together by yarn, laughter, and a shared mission of kindness.
It all began when Tanni Whitlock, one of the very first homeowners at Trilogy Valor (her house was the fourth one built), wanted to rekindle a lifelong passion while creating opportunities to meet new neighbors.
“My home was here long before we had a Club,” Tanni recalled. “So, I reached out to our Lifestyle Director, Christl Colven, to see if she could post something on MTL about starting a knitting group at my
house. She did, and shortly after, I met Cheryl Cavahlo and Jan Courtney. They both loved knitting and coincidentally, giving back. And just like that, Chix with Stix was born. It couldn’t have been easier.”
From the start, the group has been about more than just knitting. In addition to the joy of weekly gatherings, the members found a common cause.
“We don’t require experience, and we don’t require that anyone knit a specific item,” said Cheryl. “As a group, we make rectangles about seven by nine inches, in any color, yarn, or pattern. Beginners get help and guidance, while seasoned knitters can fly through as many rectangles as they’d like!”
Those rectangles are shipped to Warm Up America, a national nonprofit that joins them together into blankets and distributes them to families in need.
“It’s not a requirement to knit for Warm Up America,” explains Cheryl. “Some Members make sweaters, scarves, hats, or baby booties. It’s such a talented group of people, and the best part is how we’ve all found community by sharing and giving together. It’s an amazing experience.”
FOR TANNI, THE TRUE MAGIC GOES BEYOND THE KNITTING.
“Shhh, I’ll tell you a secret,” she said with a smile. “What makes Chix with Stix special isn’t the yarn or the crocheting…it’s the stories, the friendships and the bonding with one another. Most of us came to
Valor from somewhere else, and finding a sense of belonging can be tough. That’s why Member-led Clubs are so important. They make connecting with people fun and easy.”
JAN AGREES.
“I can’t say enough about it,” said Jan. “I’d encourage anyone in any Trilogy community to join or even start their own Member-led Club. Trilogy makes it so easy, even for introverts like me, to connect with others in meaningful ways. And when you can give back at the same time, it’s even better.”
Today, Chix with Stix has grown to more than 30 knitters on a typical Saturday, making it one of the fastest growing and most popular clubs at Valor. From time to time the club uses their weekly meetings as a launch pad for other fun activities.
“It just so happens that across the street from Valor is an alpaca farm,” said Tanni. “Because we sometimes knit with wool and even alpaca wool, we’ve actually gone and visited that farm to see, touch, and even feed alpacas firsthand! Never would I have ever imagined being able to do such a thing with a great group of friends here in Chix with Stix.”
With every loop of yarn, the women weave together not just blankets but also stories of friendship and generosity that when combined, can create something truly extraordinary for people in need.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN JOIN A MEMBER-LED CLUB IN YOUR COMMUNITY, OR MAYBE START ONE, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR TODAY. n
HOW A COVERGIRL TURNED TRILOGY ® WELLNESS AMBASSADOR IS MAKING NUTRITION TASTE BETTER THAN EVER
BY MORGAN CARDEN WITH KIM ALEXIS AND ENCANTERRA ® , A TRILOGY ® RESORT COMMUNITY CHEF BRYAN HULIHEE
What could a White Mushroom Pizza, Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna, Grilled Sirloin Steak Bowl, Tequila Chicken, and Grilled Sesame Salmon all possibly have in common?
These menu items were all personally curated by former Covergirl, Model, and Actress turned Trilogy® by Shea Homes® Wellness Ambassador Kim Alexis.
While most people may look toward Doctors, Nutritionists, and Dieticians for advice when it comes to healthy eating, Kim brings a unique perspective.
“I was a busy model and covergirl working in New York, knowing that health, fitness, and wellness were a big part of staying in the business, so I started doing a lot of self-education and taking a ton of nutrition courses,” she said. “People in my life have always gravitated toward me, always wanting to know what I'm doing in my health and wellness journey, asking, ‘How do you stay the way you are?’ and ‘What’s your routine?’”
Offering nutrition advice to family, friends, and colleagues naturally evolved into sharing her expertise with Members across all Trilogy communities, something Kim felt she was always meant to do.
“[Wellness] has always been a big part of my life and something that comes so naturally,” she said. “I'm a natural-born teacher and someone who loves to give encouragement so being able to represent wellness, help people along their journey, and hopefully inspire them to stay on the right track—that’s what I’m here for.”
With a wealth of events and physical activities to choose from at Trilogy communities, including swimming, hiking, line dancing, and just about anything else you can imagine, it all starts with how you fuel your body.
“The whole theme behind a Trilogy community is to be involved, stay feeling young, and celebrate that,” Kim said.
And the best way to fuel your body, of course, is with meals that are nutritious and rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while low in added sugars and sodium. This is exactly what the special “Curated by Kim” items on all Trilogy menus offer.
Trilogy restaurant-goers looking to eat healthier can skip the awkward “just one more minute” with the server by simply looking for the special “Curated by Kim” logo on the menu.
“Sometimes people don't know what to get, they want to try something new, or they're not sure where to start with a new wellness idea or program,” said Kim. “Having something that's been pre-vetted by someone like me helps them, and then they feel good about what they've ordered.”
A common misconception is that you have to choose between flavorful food and healthy food, but the two can absolutely coexist. When combined thoughtfully, they create a delicious blend of nutrition and taste. You don’t have to give up one for the other.
The “Curated by Kim” menu options are thoughtfully planned and carefully vetted. Each dish is developed in collaboration with Kim and goes through a tasting and refinement process with the BlueStar Resort & Golf Food & Beverage team. Recipes are adjusted and retested until perfected, receiving final approval from both Kim and the BlueStar team.
The result is a selection of dishes that are as satisfying as they are nutritious.
“Our Members want to eat healthy, but they also want to indulge,” said Bryan Hulihee, executive chef at Encanterra®. “We design our menus to satisfy all of our Members by offering a little bit of everything: healthy, indulgent, and delicious.” n
PURPOSE-DRIVEN FITNESS AT TRILOGY ®
BY
Providing environments that support wellness requires us to be constant learners. The pursuit of a vibrant life is a journey we are all on together, and the knowledge of what is impactful and important often comes from the world around us — from science, from innovation, and most importantly, from our Members. We see our role not as experts prescribing solutions, but as partners working to bring the best observations and insights into our communities. This effort is complex, constantly evolving, and it’s why our long-standing partnership with Technogym, spanning over two decades, is so valuable to us.
As a passionate wellness enthusiast myself, I've had the privilege of observing how Technogym's technology can help people pursue healthier, more fulfilling lives. That said, this article isn't about promoting a brand; it’s about sharing some of the genuine thought and strategic purpose behind the equipment, the processes, and the opportunities for personalized wellness within our Trilogy communities.
To deepen our understanding, I recently spoke with Sophia Decolati, a 20-plus year veteran of Technogym, whose insights have been instrumental in shaping the wellness landscape of Trilogy communities nationwide.
Before we explore the specifics of our collaboration, it helps to understand the scientific foundation upon which Technogym builds its solutions. Since its founding in 1983, Technogym has consistently outpaced the industry in its investments in research and development (R&D). Their R&D centers are places where over 200 dedicated professionals – including biomedical engineers, sports scientists,
designers, and software developers – work to translate the latest evidence from medical, physiological, and biomechanical science into practical wellness tools. This significant investment has led to an impressive portfolio of over 420 patents and 800 designs, reflecting a deep, data-driven understanding of human movement, exercise physiology, and holistic well-being.
Technogym's approach extends beyond product development to a broader concept they call "Healthness™" – a framework that connects health and wellness, emphasizing exercise as a powerful way to prevent and address chronic conditions. Their research, for instance, consistently supports the idea that regular movement can help prevent, manage, and even reverse the course of many chronic diseases. Studies informed by Technogym's scientific insights, echoing broader academic research, confirms that consistent physical activity contributes to lower cardiovascular risk and, perhaps more importantly, improved brain health, mood, and cognitive function. This dedication to science-backed, user-focused innovation is a key reason why Technogym has remained our chosen partner for so long.
BK: Sophia, it's a pleasure to speak with you. For over two decades, Technogym has been an integral part of the Trilogy wellness experience. From your perspective, what helps sustain this partnership?
SD: Ben, first, thank you for the opportunity to share. Like you, this is something I have a deep passion for, and the chance to be your partner in pushing what is possible in the communities is what I enjoy most
about my job. Now, to your question, I believe the longevity of our partnership comes from a shared belief: that wellness is a continuous journey, and it needs constant refinement to serve individual needs. Trilogy, much like Technogym, seems to understand that Members are looking for tools and resources that support their desire for an active and fulfilling life.
BK: Could you explain how the process for selecting equipment in the various Trilogy communities works? It doesn’t sound like it’s just a standard order.
SD: You’re right. It’s a dynamic, informed process. As of 2025, we do have a core set of Technogym elements that form a foundational part of the Trilogy fitness environment: Technogym Checkup, Technogym Visio, and Technogym Kiosk. These are essential for helping us deliver a consistent and personalized experience across communities.
Beyond these core components, the selection process is customized, reflecting our commitment to continuous improvement. We consider several key factors, often informed by our research into how people engage with equipment and its physiological benefits. These considerations are reviewed alongside other important factors like the size and demographics of the community, the specific configuration and flow of the space, performance data and Member feedback from existing communities, and the integration of new Technogym innovations. Our aim is to evolve with the science, providing Trilogy Members access to effective tools for longevity and vitality.
BK: What would surprise Members most about the process of curating the Club spaces?
SD: I think what might surprise Members most is the sheer depth of the data analysis and the scientific rigor that goes into every decision, even seemingly small ones. It’s not simply about aesthetics or what's trendy. Behind every equipment choice, every layout consideration, and every digital feature is a wealth of research on biomechanics, exercise physiology, human behavior, and engagement patterns. We're constantly analyzing usage data, collecting feedback, and integrating the latest findings from sports science to refine the offering. So, while a Member sees a well-appointed space, they might not realize the immense amount of strategic thinking, data analysis, and ongoing scientific inquiry that underpins that experience.
BK: What do you find most challenging when it comes to crafting our wellness spaces? Given our aim for consistency, it sounds like there are many moving parts.
SD: That's a thoughtful question, Ben, and it really gets to the heart of what makes this work complex. The most challenging aspect is balancing the desire for consistency and a consistent Member experience with the realities of unique site conditions, changing preferences among Members, and, importantly, the constant evolution of technology. This is why no two Trilogy facilities are exactly the same.
While we certainly aim for consistency in quality and continuity in the user experience, the reality is that each community's fitness center often feels somewhat bespoke. The advantage is that each Trilogy community ultimately receives a fitness environment that feels optimized for its specific context, incorporating the latest advancements and insights. The challenge lies in managing that evolution while still ensuring a unified promise of excellence. It asks for constant communication, adaptability, and a shared commitment to learning and improving together.
BK: Let's look at those core elements. What specifically do Technogym Checkup, Technogym Visio, and Technogym Kiosk offer to the Trilogy Member's experience, and what makes them particularly effective from a scientific standpoint?
SD: Each of these technologies is thoughtfully designed, grounded in exercise science, to help create an intelligent and personalized fitness journey.
The Technogym Checkup is an assessment tool that we've developed through years of research. It uses advanced sensor technology and AI algorithms to provide a physiological assessment, including body composition, mobility, balance, and even cognitive agility, contributing to a user's Wellness Age™. This offers a clear, science-backed starting
point, highlights specific areas for improvement, and gives Members objective data to track their progress. Our research suggests that giving individuals objective feedback can significantly boost motivation and adherence. The AI-powered Technogym Coach then uses this assessment to adjust training programs, aiming for effectiveness based on individual responses.
Next, Technogym Visio acts as a central digital point, designed to make expert-guided training more accessible. The Visio offers immediate access to a large, scientifically curated library of workouts and Technogym Sessions. It delivers semi-custom guided training experiences, where Members can choose goal-based content or follow routines with clear video instructions and audio cues. This aims to ensure that even without a personal trainer present, Members have access to expert guidance, which can help with proper form, reduce injury risk, and enhance workout effectiveness.
Finally, the Technogym Kiosk allows us to offer an almost endless array of online, instructor-led classes. This means we are less restricted by the limitations of time of day or instructor availability, providing more classes of a wider variety than we've ever been able to deliver before.
Together, these three elements form a connected, scientifically integrated system: the Checkup helps assess unique physiological profiles; the Visio provides expertly guided, adaptable workouts; and the Kiosk broadens our availability.
BK: How does Technogym tailor its offering to different age groups and different levels of athletic comfort, especially considering the diverse population within Trilogy communities?
SD: This is a central part of our R&D. Our extensive research into diverse populations informs how we develop our products.
Firstly, the Technogym Checkup is designed to be adaptable. Its assessments are gentle and accessible, measuring foundational markers like balance, mobility, and body composition without requiring peak athletic performance. The resulting "Wellness Age™" offers a personalized benchmark that is meaningful whether someone runs marathons or is just starting light activity.
Secondly, our entire ecosystem is built with gradual progression and clear guidance in mind. For beginners, the UNITY MINI screens on our strength equipment offer clear, animated tutorials for proper form. The Technogym Visio offers a wide spectrum of workouts, from gentle stretching to intense sessions. Users can easily filter content by intensity, duration, or equipment type, helping them find programs that match their current comfort and skill level. Our AI Coach then constantly adjusts the suggested workouts, aiming for steady progress without overwhelming the user.
Finally, our "Healthness™" philosophy is specifically geared towards making fitness inclusive and beneficial for all ages and abilities. This means providing solutions that support active aging, help prevent chronic conditions, and aim to enhance cognitive function through movement. For older adults, our equipment is designed for easy entry and exit, with clear, large displays and ergonomic adjustments. We also emphasize exercises that improve functional fitness – the ability to perform daily activities with ease – which is important for maintaining independence and quality of life at any age. Our aim is to make sophisticated wellness technology feel approachable and empowering for everyone.
BK: And what about the ongoing support and evolution of these environments? Our Members know that Trilogy is committed for the long haul. How does Technogym work to ensure that the investment made in these fitness centers continues to benefit Members over time?
SD: Our partnership with Trilogy is a long-term commitment, reflecting Technogym's dedication to continuous improvement and scientific advancement. We aim to ensure sustained value through several key areas: continuous software and content innovation, remote diagnostics and proactive maintenance, actionable data analytics for optimization (which informs future equipment decisions), and a dedicated strategic partnership. This ongoing commitment aims to ensure that Trilogy's fitness environments are not static; they are living, evolving spaces that continually adapt to the needs and preferences of the Members, working to ensure that the investment continues to deliver genuine and scientifically informed value for years to come.
BK: Sophia, thank you for sharing your expertise. Hearing about the continuous R&D investment and the thoughtful, data-driven approach to every piece of equipment is reassuring. Our goal at Trilogy isn't to simply own the best machines; it's to foster an environment where every Member feels supported, confident, and equipped to achieve their personal best. We remain constant students of wellness right alongside you. Ultimately, this journey — of learning, adapting, and growing healthier — is one we are proud to share with every Member. n
SOPHIA LIVES IN COLORADO and is an avid outdoorsperson, loving to hike and spend time with friends and her dog. Her role at Technogym allows her to frequently travel across the country for site visits, something she cherishes as a natural-born traveler.
BEN LIVES IN ARIZONA and enjoys trying most anything that might help optimize wellness — CrossFit, cold plunges, compression, soundbeds, cryotherapy, and more. That said, he always has a jar of Peanut M&M's in the freezer ready to grab a handful.
KIM ALEXIS:
FIVE HABITS FOR LONGEVITY
As Trilogy’s Wellness Ambassador, I’ve found many Members are similar to me: we are focused on living a life rich with energy and purpose. While there are countless tips out there, science consistently points to these five habits as the most impactful keys to a longer, healthier life:
1. REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Aim for at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking) or 75-150 minutes of vigorous activity (like jogging) weekly, plus two days of strength training. Research consistently links this to reduced risks of heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and improved cognitive function.
2. NUTRIENT-DENSE DIET: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Diets such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets are associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline.
3. PRIORITIZING QUALITY SLEEP: Aim for seven to nine hours of restorative sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and impaired immune function.
4. MAINTAINING SOCIAL CONNECTIONS: Strong social ties and meaningful relationships are linked to longevity. Loneliness can negatively impact health. Engaging with others can reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
5. STRESS MANAGEMENT & MENTAL WELL-BEING: Chronic stress affects physical health. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or spending time in nature can help. A positive mindset and sense of purpose also contribute to overall well-being. n
The fitness landscape today is significantly different from 25 years ago. While core exercise principles remain, the tools, accessibility, and personalization have evolved dramatically. And, in what is probably the most positive turn in the story, fitness has cast a considerably wider net, and gyms now frequently embrace an ethos of “everyone is welcome, everyone is on a journey”. If you came up in the intimidating days of Arnold and Lou and others, this is a welcome shift to see.
THEN
● INTIMIDATING CULTURE: Old-school gyms often fostered an intimidating and exclusive atmosphere, favoring the very fit, often making beginners or older adults feel unwelcome or lost.
● HEAVY, COMPLEX EQUIPMENT: Machines were often bulky and purely mechanical, requiring specialized knowledge to set up correctly and offering limited guidance.
● GENERIC PROGRAMS: Workouts were largely standardized, relying on instinct or printed cards rather than personalized science.
● NO SAFETY NET: There was limited immediate guidance on form or proper intensity, increasing the risk of injury for the inexperienced user.
NOW (2026):
● ACCESSIBLE & GUIDED: Technology dissolves the exclusive culture by offering clear, instant guidance and form corrections, reducing the intimidation barrier for new users.
● INTELLIGENCE OVER COMPLEXITY: Equipment is software-driven and utilizes AI for custom setup and load adjustment, removing the complexity and guesswork of older mechanical systems.
● DATA-DRIVEN SAFETY: Real-time biometrics and performance tracking provide an immediate safety net, allowing users and coaches to prevent overexertion or improper technique.
● COMPREHENSIVE SCOPE: Focus shifts beyond just muscular exertion to include measurable goals for recovery, sleep, and cognitive health, redefining wellness as a complete system.
This evolution is driven by advancements in sensor technology, artificial intelligence, and a deeper scientific understanding of human performance, aiming to make fitness more accessible, effective, and personal. n
BY JACKIE HOBSON HESS
with Verterra® – A Trilogy® Boutique Community® Member Barbara Kleve
As a group of eight women from Verterra® – A Trilogy® Boutique Community®, made their way through the back nine at Druids Glen Golf Course, fatigue began to settle in. The 18-hole outing proved more demanding than the nine holes many of the women were used to.
By the time they reached the 16th tee box, rumblings from the lead cart hinted at possibly sitting out the hole. But Barbara Kleve wasn’t having it.
Persistent and proud of it, 83-year-old Barbara jumped out of her cart, placed her hands on her fellow playing partners’ shoulders and declared, “We don’t give up. Even when we are tired, we don’t give up.”
Then she stepped up and launched her tee shot cleanly over a demanding stretch of water, perfectly in play. Cheers erupted. Inspired by Barbara’s determination and energy, the rest of the group followed suit, finishing the last three holes with smiles and a second wind.
That moment on the 16th tee was just one of many throughout the round where Barbara lifted the group, not just with her golf game, but with her spirit.
“When you are out doing something, you shouldn’t dwell on it being hard,” Barbara later shared. “You need to make sure you are having fun and that the people you are with do too.”
Golf may be her latest passion, but Barbara has been a familiar face at Verterra events since she became the second homeowner to move in back in September 2023. After touring model homes, she knew Verterra was the right fit. “It felt like it would be a very welcoming and active community,” she recalled. “I haven’t regretted the move. It turned out to be everything I thought.”
That welcoming, energetic environment was just what she needed after selling the four-acre Oregon property where she and her late husband had raised their children and filled their days with adventure. From river rafting and skiing to flying airplanes and even owning a hot air balloon, Barbara and her husband lived boldly.
Since becoming a Trilogy Member, Barbara credits Verterra’s Lifestyle Director, Todd Dail, for keeping her calendar packed with things to do: cooking classes, hiking trips, river excursions, sporting events, and of course, the monthly block parties.
Her children often remind her, “You don’t have to do everything!” But that’s not how Barbara sees it.
“People tend to put me in a certain category when they hear I’m in my 80s,” she said. “But I don’t feel old. I don’t want to be treated like I’m old. I want to be treated like a regular, capable person.”
That’s exactly what she found at Verterra. While she enjoys staying active with Members of all ages, what matters most to Barbara is that she’s accepted for who she is, not how old she is.
“It makes me feel like I am part of this community,” she said. “We are neighbors, and we care about each other. It feels like home now.”
At Trilogy communities like Verterra, the goal is simple: help Members have the chance to live their happiest, most balanced life, physically, socially, and emotionally. For Barbara, staying physically fit is key to making it all feel “normal and natural” to keep doing the things she loves.
“I don’t think we should give up on ourselves,” she said. “I don’t like to be told I can’t do something. That just inspires me to go right ahead and do it, until I get it.”
Barbara’s resilience, energy, and joy for life are infectious and a reminder to everyone that age is just a number, and passion is what truly keeps us young. n
BY JACKIE HOBSON HESS WITH MEMBERS FROM TRILOGY
When Trilogy® Lake Norman Member Linda Cirillo was young, she dreamed of becoming an astronomer. But one tough calculus class in college led her to change course, and she went on to spend 28 fulfilling years as a high school teacher in the New York City school system.
Today, Linda is getting a second chance at her first passion, as a founding Member of the Lake Norman Astronomy Club.
“I’ve loved astronomy since I was a kid,” she shared. “The first book I ever bought was the Field Guide to Stars and Planets.”
Her passion aligned just over a year ago with fellow Trilogy® Members Neil Sidden (retired after 43 years with Tyson Foods), Pete Alvarez (spent his career working for the CIA), and Steve Cohen (retired in 2019 after a career in information technology). Though none of them pursued astronomy professionally, they all shared a deep curiosity and a desire to keep learning, and to teach others along the way.
What began as a small gathering under the stars quickly evolved into something much more. With 85 Members and growing, the Lake Norman Astronomy Club has become one of the community’s most intellectually vibrant and socially rewarding groups.
Neil originally imagined casual stargazing sessions. Instead, the club now features engaging presentations, telescope nights, rocket flyovers from Florida, and events that commemorate space history milestoneslike the July celebration of the 56th anniversary of Apollo 11.
That evening, Pete and Linda gave presentations on the moon and the historic Apollo mission. Pete, who had once met Buzz Aldrin, led a heartfelt discussion on the mission’s impact and how Members remember that extraordinary moment in time.
The evening also included themed beverages from the Lake Norman culinary team - like The Armstrong, Buzz’s Ascent, Collins’ Orbit, and The Moonwalk.
While under Steve’s watchful eye, stargazing continues to be a highlight - especially the night comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS streaked across the sky right above the pickleball courts, a moment Neil describes as “electric” - it's the club’s educational focus that fuels its momentum. Pete and Linda lead most of the presentations, and Neil scouts out engaging speakers, including a fellow Trilogy Member who worked his entire career at NASA.
“There’s a part of me that’s always trying to teach someone something,” Linda said. Pete added, “It gives me something work-related to look forward to, to share with people. There’s a genuine interest in intellectual learning here.”
Trilogy communities offer Member-led Clubs that reflect personal passions. While many focus on fitness or social events, the Astronomy Club stands out by keeping curiosity and lifelong learning at its core.
“It’s all about keeping my mind active,” Linda said. “If I get too much downtime, the brain goes into sleep mode. But when I’m learning, I notice a real difference in how I think.”
For the founding “Core Four,” the club has enriched their retired lives with purpose, friendship, and intellectual enrichment.
“Being involved in a club, it’s amazing how much it enhances your social life,” said Neil. “I’ve met more people since moving here than I did living on the lake for 15 years.” n
BY JACKIE HOBSON HESS WITH TRILOGY ® LAKE NORMAN MEMBER MARIAN DENTON
“I feel like most people don’t give themselves enough grace when they go through a loss.”
Across Trilogy® communities, Members are known for their vibrant connections - social gatherings, trips, wine dinners, and countless moments of joy with neighbors. But Trilogy also offers programs and resources that extend well beyond fun. In unique and sometimes unexpected ways, these opportunities not only enrich lives, but they can also help heal and uplift them.
One national initiative, the Keynote Speaker Series, broadcasts worldclass experts directly to communities each month. Whether it’s Zonya Foco, the dynamic dietitian who makes healthy eating fun, Dr. Roger Landry sharing insights on longevity, or Olympian Ruben Gonzalez inspiring Members to pursue their goals, each speaker offers fresh perspectives that spark intellectual growth and personal enrichment.
Sometimes, the conversations reach even deeper. Recently, Members heard from Teresa Amaral Beshwate, MP, a certified professional life coach, best-selling author, and widow, who spoke candidly about loss and the journey of grief. Teresa knows the subject intimately, having lost her husband suddenly during their wedding anniversary celebration.
“Grief is a heart-wrenchingly painful problem for the brain to solve,” she shared. “It’s learning to live in a world with the absence of someone you love deeply, who is ingrained in your understanding of the world.”
Her words resonated with many, including Trilogy® Lake Norman Member Marian Denton, who faced her own devastating loss when her daughter, Rachel, passed away in her early 30s. What began as
what seemed like a toothache when she was 33 turned out to be a brain aneurysm and stroke, leaving Rachel paralyzed and unable to speak. Marian and her husband Rick treasured two more years with her before her passing in 2023.
During that time, the Dentons moved into Trilogy Lake Norman - a decision Marian calls a blessing. “It turned out to be the perfect place for Rachel,” she said. Together with friends, neighbors, and family, they created Rachel’s Garden, a living tribute filled with flowers and love.
When Rachel passed, it was the Trilogy community that carried Marian and Rick through their darkest days. Neighbors and Twin Mills Club team members became a lifeline, showing up with meals, flowers, cards, and, most of all, love. Over time, Marian found strength through the Member-led Club Grief is Grief and through national resources like the Keynote Speaker Series, which reminded her that she wasn’t alone.
“I feel like most people don’t give themselves enough grace when they go through a loss,” Marian reflected. “As Teresa said, grief doesn’t come with a manual. It looks different for everyone.”
Through her journey, Marian has discovered lessons she carries forward: that grief has no rules or timeline; that friendships and community can be the strongest medicine; and, most importantly, that loss can deepen the capacity for love. “I’ve learned to hold onto and cherish the people in my life,” she said, “and to live each day with gratitude.” n
BY MORGAN CARDEN WITH TRILOGY® WELLNESS AMBASSADOR
If you’ve lived in a Trilogy® community for a while, chances are you know Kim Alexis. If you’re new, you might just recognize her as the Trilogy® Wellness Ambassador or from the “Curated by Kim” dishes featured on menus across Trilogy communities.
Maybe her name even rings a bell from the 1980s, or perhaps you looked her up online. Yes, we are talking about that Kim Alexis. It was then that she became one of the most recognizable women in the world, appearing on more than 500 magazine covers and helping define what we now know of as the “supermodel.”
Today, Kim has swapped runways for wellness, and she couldn’t be more passionate about it. As the Trilogy Wellness Ambassador she inspires Members to embrace healthy living so they can enjoy life fully, with strength and grace.
While she still spends time in front of the camera, these days Kim prefers a more hands-on approach by meeting Members face-to-face, sharing tips, and showing just how fun wellness can be.
“I think it feels more authentic when Members get to see you and talk to you one-on-one.” — KIM ALEXIS
“I think it feels more authentic when Members get to see you and talk to you one-on-one,” said Kim. “And there are just so many interesting people in the community to meet.”
Beyond meeting with Members to discuss wellness, Kim lives out the five pillars of wellness encouraged in all Trilogy communities: Social Connection, Physical Fitness, Intellectual Enrichment, Emotional Confidence, and Spiritual Wellbeing. Her goal is to show and share this commitment during her visits to Trilogy communities.
This summer, Kim made her way to Washington to visit Trilogy® at Tehaleh® and Verterra® - A Trilogy® Boutique Community®. She jumped right into community life, hosting a meet-and-greet, joining community walks, attending a stretch session, leading a healthy cooking demo, and ending the day with an intimate dinner with Members at Tehaleh’s restaurant, The Mantel.
Her energy was contagious. Members saw wellness in action and experienced firsthand how enjoyable it can be.
“It was really fun to experience so many different things,” Kim said. “Every activity felt unique, and everyone made me feel so welcome.”
Kim’s visit didn’t just leave Members inspired. The Club team members felt it too.
“Having Kim Alexis visit our community was a breath of fresh air,” said Verterra Lifestyle Director Todd Dail. “She brought warmth, laughter, and a real focus on wellness that left us all feeling a little more grounded and a lot more inspired.”
Her visits to Trilogy communities gives Members the confidence to embrace a healthy way of living by helping wellness feel tangible, showing that it’s not just a concept but something to be lived, shared, and celebrated together.
“We were thrilled to have Kim join us in Washington,” said Tehaleh Club General Manager Paula Roe. “Our community thoroughly enjoyed being able to engage with Kim in person, whether it was at a cooking demo, fitness class, a walk, a wellness open house, or a community dinner. I also loved being able to spend time with her and learn more about her and her passion for wellness.”
During her trip to Washington, Kim connected with roughly 135 Members and also met many others while visiting the model homes to chat with potential buyers. It’s impossible to count all the lives she touched, but one thing is certain, if you get the chance to meet her, don’t miss it.
“I don’t bite,” Kim said. “Being able to connect with Members and teach them about wellness is just who I am. It’s part of my personality.”
If she hasn’t visited your community yet, don’t worry. Kim will be arriving soon to meet you in person and bring her love of wellness to life.
“I can’t wait to visit the communities I haven’t explored yet, meet all the wonderful Members, and share my passion for wellness with them,” said Kim. n
BY LISA PENNINGTON WITH ENCANTERRA ® , A TRILOGY ® RESORT COMMUNITY MEMBERS
On October 26th, 2024, Encanterra®, a Trilogy® Resort Community Member Karen Doerzaph made history by becoming the oldest woman to complete the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim hike on foot at 75 years and 329 days.
How did she do it? With determination, grit, and a little help from her Encanterra Hiking Club friends.
Karen’s journey as a hiker began during one of the most challenging chapters of her life. Once a nationally ranked racquetball player, she was no stranger to discipline and physical endurance. But years of stress and unhealthy habits began to take a toll and she knew it was time to reclaim her health. With a simple but powerful commitment to “eat right and exercise,” she laced up her hiking boots and hit the trails, quickly reigniting her love for pushing limits. Karen believes this “brought on new life” in her, and hiking became her sanctuary, her source of strength, and ultimately, the path that led her to a Guinness World Record and inspiring others.
Karen and her now-husband, Dave, made Encanterra their home in late 2019, drawn to its vibrant community and scenic surroundings. In fact, they were married in their own backyard, with the ceremony officiated by the Club’s former Lifestyle Director. Both Karen and Dave were eager to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and quickly found their way to the Encanterra Hiking Club. It was on a hike with the Member-led Club that Karen met John Kloster, another passionate hiker. John and his wife, Sue, moved to Encanterra in 2020 to join the Hiking Club, hoping to connect with people. After meeting Karen, whom John refers to as a “jackrabbit,” on his first hike with the club, the two became quick friends with many miles shared on the trails.
Over the next few years, John and Karen, both in their 70s, hiked the Grand Canyon several times. The Grand Canyon's rim-to-rim hike is considered one of the most iconic and challenging treks in the United States. Spanning approximately 21 to 24 miles depending on the route, it takes hikers from one rim of the canyon to the other. Karen and John attempted the strenuous rim-to-rim-to-rim hike (43 miles) in April of 2024 but there were rockslides on the North Rim which prevented them from completing the hike.
Shortly after, John came across an article noting that the oldest woman to complete the rim-to-rim-to-rim hike was 61-years-old. “I considered it a challenge,” Karen recalled. “I knew I could do it with John’s help.” The two began planning the attempt to set the Guinness World Record. John suggested they do it on his birthday, October 25th, 2024 - a date that turned out to be perfect. John was Karen’s “support system, water boy, cheerleader, and photographer.”
Karen credits her friendship with John and the support of the Encanterra Hiking Club for giving her the confidence to pursue such an ambitious goal. In the weeks leading up to the hike, she suffered a back injury, but John, ever the loyal hiking partner, reassured her he’d carry the water if needed. And he meant it - eight liters on his back for 36 hours was no small feat.
Just two weeks before the record attempt, Karen led a group hike through the Grand Canyon, guiding her husband and a few younger friends who had never experienced the rim-to-rim route. “I felt great after those 23 miles in the canyon,” she said. “I knew I could have turned around and gone back to the South Rim that same day.”
When the big day finally arrived, that confidence fueled her. It wasn’t just her training that carried her through - it was the encouragement and kindness of her Encanterra neighbors, and the support of fellow hikers along the trail, that made all the difference.
Just three days before the hike, Karen’s carefully laid plans hit an unexpected snag: Bright Angel Trail was suddenly closed until May. Her team of friends, official timekeepers, and witnesses had to pivot quickly. Waiting until spring wasn’t an option - they were ready now.
So, they reversed their route, starting from the South Rim instead. The change added new challenges: steeper terrain, higher elevation, and no water access. But Karen didn’t flinch.
On the morning of October 25th, she pulled on her green “I’m Karen” shirt, strapped on her fanny pack, and set off with John who wore his matching, “Team Karen” tee. At the rim, her support crew stood out in bright green shirts, cheering her on. Part of the official Guinness World Record process required Karen to interact with fellow hikers, take photos with them, and collect their contact information as witnesses. She had worried people might be hesitant, but instead, they were enthusiastic. She handed out commemorative coins her husband had made and snapped selfies with her new trail companions. In the canyon, Karen was a rockstar and John, her loyal supporter.
Some of Karen’s most memorable moments came from the people she met along the way. At Phantom Ranch, she was surprised with a standing ovation as she and John began their final climb up South Kaibab Trail. Earlier, on the North Rim, she inspired a hesitant younger hiker, a daughter traveling with her mom, who found new confidence after meeting Karen. For John, this “was a real highlight”. Karen’s spirit and determination reminded everyone she met that they too, could do hard things.
Today with her name etched in the Guinness World Record Books, Karen continues to share her passion by helping others train for the rim-to-rim hikes. “The beauty of the canyon keeps us going back again and again,” she says. “It is truly a blessing to be able to do this hike at any age, but I appreciate it more the older I get.” She lives by the credo “Age is just a number,” and with every mile she hikes, she proves it. n
BY JACKIE HOBSON HESS WITH TRILOGY ® AT LAKE FREDERICK MEMBER JOHN KENNEDY
Choosing to move into a Trilogy® community represents a commitment to embracing all that life has to offer. When deciding how to spend this meaningful chapter of their lives, people tend to agree on one thing: they want to live better and enhance their well-being.
To help Members fulfill that mission, Trilogy communities are built around five Wellness Pillars: Social Connection, Physical Fitness, Intellectual Enrichment, Emotional Confidence, and Spiritual Well-being. These pillars shape the lifestyle in both obvious and subtle ways, woven into day-to-day life, personal pursuits, and shared experiences.
Just ask John Kennedy, leader of the Woodworking Club at Trilogy® at Lake Frederick. After moving into the community in 2018, John, a former Navy pilot, picked up woodcarving during the first wave of his retirement in Colorado Springs, and started the club alongside a few other woodcarvers.
“I am at the stage of my life where I enjoy teaching and sharing what I know with other people,” John said.
That desire to share recently led to a project far bigger than the club’s usual scope. Called Noah’s Ark, this community-wide effort brought together not only fellow Trilogy Members and other Member-led Clubs with skills in woodcarving, painting, and wood-burning, but also children from the local Bowman Library’s youth programs.
Once the ark and accompanying figurines were shaped, carved, and detailed by the aforementioned groups, the Lake Frederick team partnered with the library's Youth Activities Program to host regular sessions, teaching the children how to paint each piece with care and precision.
“Art is important,” John says. “It’s an expression. It gives us a chance to be creative, and with these young children, it’s joyful. All of us should have a skill, a hobby, something that keeps our brains active. That makes for better people.”
The completed Noah’s Ark will be owned by the Bowman Library and displayed across the regional Winchester library system. It will also be featured at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and at the Shenandoah Lodge & Athletic Club - an honor that Lake Frederick’s Lifestyle Director Andrea Moxie describes as “a big deal.”
But for John, the true reward lies in the journey and the adult and youth artists who took it with him.
“I'm excited for the 40 people who were part of this project who can look at it and say, ‘we did this. We were part of something really special.’”
This sense of joy and connection, purpose and creativity, is what Spiritual Well-being - Trilogy’s fifth Wellness Pillar - is all about. It may not always be overt, but it shines through in activities that bring peace, joy, and meaning. For John, woodworking became the hobby a friend once told him every retiree needs, “something that gives you a reason to get out of the house, a way to connect with others.”
And in sharing that passion, John and the Lake Frederick community of artists helped build not just a beautiful piece of art, but a deeper sense of belonging, creativity, and connection. And that, he says, is very rewarding. n
BY MORGAN CARDEN
You’re lying down. Breathing in for four seconds, holding for four, breathing out for four, then pausing for another four before beginning again. The rhythm begins to settle your mind and body.
You hear clear, airy, and ethereal sounds. High-pitched notes drift in and out at varying intervals, each one pulling you further into a state of relaxation. You begin to slip deeper into a meditative state when a subtle gong sounds. It vibrates through your body, resonating as if it’s coming from far away, even though it’s only a few feet away. It rumbles softly, like distant thunder.
The sound develops and builds. More gongs follow, some higher, some lower, each one arriving at different intervals. The sound moves through your entire body. You feel weightless, as though you’re floating on the surface of the ocean, held without effort. You breathe in and out, feeling calm, grounded, and completely at ease.
A wave begins to rise. It builds. It builds again. It builds once more. But it never crashes into the shore. Instead, it slowly dissipates, fading into nothing. You let out a soft sigh of relief.
Rain begins to fall. You hear it, steady and soft, but no drops touch your skin. More waves form, but like the first, none of them break. A light storm of sound washes over you gently, layer after layer.
Just as you begin to cross the threshold from deep meditation into sleep, you hear chimes in the distance. At first, they sound far away, but with time they grow louder, as if someone is approaching slowly, ringing a bell with each step. Then, everything goes silent.
A gentle voice says, “Welcome back.” You wiggle your fingers and toes, slowly returning to the room. You open your eyes and are present again, surrounded by silence and calm.
This is what you can expect when you attend a sound bath with Aimee Arendsee, certified sound healing practitioner, owner of Indivara Sound & Healing Arts, and instructor who provides sound healing for Members at Verterra® - A Trilogy® Boutique Community® and Trilogy® at Tehaleh®, two of the many Trilogy communities offering this practice.
“A sound bath is an immersive experience where sound waves wash over the body, helping to release tension,” said Trilogy® at Verde River™ Wellness Director, Jennie Eiland. “It’s a holistic practice that uses specific sound frequencies from instruments like tuning forks, singing bowls, and gongs to bring the body, mind, and spirit into balance, promoting overall well-being by calming the mind, shifting emotional states, and activating the body’s natural healing mechanisms.”
Trilogy at Verde River uses crystal bowls specifically tuned to 432 hertz, a frequency believed to promote healing of the mind, body, and the emotional state. This tone is associated with enhancing mood and alleviating fatigue due to its harmonious and soothing vibrations. Softer and brighter in quality, the 432 hertz frequency encourages the release of serotonin and endorphins, which can help regulate blood pressure and stabilize heart rate.
While you’re in a deep state of meditation and relaxation, your mind remains active as it trains attention, enhances focus, promotes emotional balance, and supports cognitive health.
“As important as it is to stay active [physically], it’s just as important to take time to be still, to reflect, to check in with your mind, and to allow both your mind and body to truly rest,” said Trilogy® at La Quinta Lifestyle Director Mackenzie Simmons. “At BlueStar, we’re
always striving to promote wellness and that means caring not just for your body, but also for your mind and your spirit.”
One of the main reasons people turn to sound baths is to escape the constant demands of everyday life and reconnect with a sense of calm.
“Even though most of our Members are retired, they can still get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” said Trilogy® at Vistancia® Lifestyle Director Nicole McShane.
External factors, whether large or small, avoidable or not, can build up over time and lead to emotional stress, physical tension and pain, and a sense of spiritual disconnection. This disruption can cloud one’s sense of meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater.
A sound bath offers a gentle path back to that deeper sense of connection and reflection. Within this calming space, many experience renewed clarity, purpose, and a reconnection to something beyond themselves. Whether through a feeling of peace, awe, or presence, sound baths can help restore the spiritual balance often lost in the noise of daily life.
“It's a wonderful break from life and such a great stress reliever,” said Trilogy at Verde River Member Jane English. “It just gets you into such a wonderful space and state of mind.”
“You immerse yourself in it and I always think I want to clear my mind, but recently I read that it’s not about clearing your mind but it’s about making room for more: relaxation, meditation, and balance,” adds fellow Verde River Member Constance Amend. “I believe it enriches your well-being both emotionally and spiritually.”
Constance and Jane have found themselves becoming sound bath regulars, adding it to their self-care and workout routines.
“We all have our things: golf, tennis, pickleball, and I have my sound baths,” Constance said. “Ultimately, it’s just good for my soul.”
While the sounds, frequencies, and vibrations alone can bring peace, tranquility, and clarity, others may experience something much deeper, something profoundly spiritual and deeply personal.
“I feel this warmth that comes over me and I know this might sound a little strange for some, but I can feel the presence of my husband who passed away, and to me it's a very warm and comforting experience,” Jane said. “I'm in a state of euphoria during the whole thing.”
While this holistic approach to healing may seem unconventional to some, it’s important for Trilogy communities to offer a wide range of activities that support diverse interests and overall well-being, because aging gracefully involves more than just healthy eating and physical exercise.
“Bringing these experiences to their backyard is what I feel is my job to do,” said Encanterra®, a Trilogy® Resort Community Lifestyle Director Gail Zigler. “Bringing experiences to Members that they might not have access to otherwise or may not have the desire to drive far for but would love to do is very important.”
The effort put into planning these sound baths for Trilogy communities has been well worth it, with strong attendance and, most importantly, positive feedback from Members.
“I am so grateful that we have this offering, because not everybody gets to experience this in their own community,” Jane said. “I feel like we keep working on wellness, and Trilogy is always finding new ways to keep us active not only in our bodies but in our minds and spirits. I'm very happy here.” n
BY MORGAN CARDEN
As you tour a Trilogy® community, you're greeted by warm smiles and impressed by the well-kept surroundings, lively Clubs, expansive resort pools, state-of-the-art fitness studios, scenic golf courses, and popular restaurants, all just steps from your future dream home.
Chances are one of those friendly faces was a Lifestyle Director who gave you a glimpse of the vibrant social calendar and helped you see Trilogy communities are more than just beautiful surroundings. It’s where people connect and community truly comes to life.
From holiday parties to Mother’s Day high tea and Kentucky Derby hat contests, each Club is the place to be when there’s a holiday or reason to celebrate. It’s where Members from all walks of life come together to enjoy meaningful moments throughout the year.
Trilogy® at The Polo Club is no exception. With the help of Members, the community hosted a vibrant Juneteenth Celebration, bringing together 68 Members and their families to honor freedom and culture with dinner, dancing, and music.
“We danced, enjoyed the festivities, and had so much fun,” said Member Deborah Brown. "It was a very unifying event, and I think that’s important because it helps people from different backgrounds understand and appreciate one another’s cultures."
The spirit of the day was about more than the festivities. It was about embracing the opportunity to learn more about Juneteenth, with everyone welcome to take part.
“I think it’s important for people to understand different cultures, especially if they’re unfamiliar with them,” Deborah said. “But even more importantly, I believe it’s valuable when people are open to events that highlight the history of this country.”
The event didn’t just resonate with Members and their families - it also deeply engaged the team behind it. Lifestyle Manager Steve Timmons and Lifestyle Coordinator Joselyne Carlos dedicated time to learning more about the significance of Juneteenth which allowed them to craft an unforgettable and meaningful experience.
“Joselyne and I got an education on what [Juneteenth] is,” said Steve. “We were able to tell others about our Juneteenth celebration and actually educate Members, hoping they will join us for the celebration next year.”
This celebration is one they plan to host every year, expecting more attendees each time. They want to make it clear that everyone is welcome to join in and be part of the event.
“It’s not just for our Black community because what Juneteenth represents is strength, resilience, and freedom, and all Members are welcome to come and celebrate that,” Joselyne said.
In a time where genuine connection matters more than ever, the event offered a chance to come together, reflect, and grow closer as a community through shared understanding.
“It brings together neighbors who unify a diverse group of Americans living in the community,” said Deborah. “My favorite quote is from Winston Churchill: ‘Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.’ To me, that is more relevant now than ever. I believe anything that brings us together is truly significant.”
As experienced with the Juneteenth celebration, fostering unity can happen through year-round events that celebrate, honor, and educate about diverse cultures, religions, and backgrounds. Trilogy® at Verde RiverTM has embraced inclusion by hosting meaningful events for their Jewish community, including a Menorah lighting and Passover dinner.
“We have so many different backgrounds in our communities, and it’s crucial to support them from all angles and across all walks of life,” said Lifestyle Director Katie Hughes.
These events not only create space for cultural expression, but also open the door for connection, understanding, and shared experiences among neighbors. When Members feel seen and celebrated, it strengthens the sense of belonging, and that is at the heart of every vibrant, inclusive community.
“About 10 percent of the attendees were not Jewish, they were Members who wanted to learn more about the Jewish community,” Katie said. “It was truly inspiring to give the community something they celebrate every year at home and to see them come together to share that tradition at the Club.”
Sharing their tradition with both Jewish Members and non-Jewish Members eager to learn has meant a great deal not only to Katie but
to the entire community. After more than two years of hosting this event, its significance continues to bring people together.
“It means the world to them,” said Katie. “In today’s world, we need unity among people, and I believe creating a comfortable space where they can come together is truly beautiful.”
From culture and religion to identity and background, many things shape who we are and give us plenty to celebrate and be proud of. In 2025, Trilogy® at Tehaleh® celebrated its fifth year honoring Pride.
Led by Club General Manager Paula Roe, this event has continued to grow over the past five years. What began in 2020 as Paula’s passion project and a simple drive-thru celebration has blossomed into a vibrant gathering that now welcomes nearly 230 attendees. The event features live music, lite bites, festive beverages, ice cream, and a station to create letters of encouragement.
"I wanted to bring the energy of Seattle Pride to Bonney Lake so that my Members can experience that same spirit and see others in the community they can connect with while also creating an opportunity to feel safe, welcome, and seen," Paula said. "Whether you identify with the community or simply want to show support and meet new people, it all comes back to one of our core pillars: Social Connection."
At Trilogy, we emphasize the importance of social connection and spiritual well-being, which is the feeling of closeness and belonging, along with the relationships that create this sense of community for everyone, not just a few.
"I think different segments of our culture and nation can sometimes feel like minorities," said Paula. "Providing an opportunity for people to feel seen, heard, respected, and recognized is really important to me."
For Paula, Pride is far more than an LGBTQ+ event. It is a vital force that brings people together, forges deep connections, and makes every Member feel truly seen and valued. This kind of inclusion does not just build community; it heals and strengthens it from within.
This vision is reflected in these unifying events at Trilogy at Tehaleh, Trilogy at The Polo Club, and Trilogy at Verde River which all serve as a beacon of hope and belonging, a space where newcomers are welcomed and find the safety to be themselves. It embodies the core values of unity, authenticity, care, and stands as a lasting testament to leadership that lifts up individuals and breathes strength and resilience into the entire community. n
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“ I don’t know of another community that is more generous.”
BY MORGAN CARDEN
Giving back to the community is a value many Trilogy® communities share. Whether it is attending an event, buying baked goods to support a cause, or donating Christmas toys to a family in need, generosity runs deep. At Trilogy, it is more than a passing moment. It is a principle embraced by every Member.
At Trilogy® at The Vineyards, Members make generosity a way of life, contributing over $250,000 to the local Los Medanos College.
Spearheaded by the Member-led Club, TEACH at The Vineyards, which stands for Together, Educating, Advocating, Coaching, Helping, the club has worked with the college since 2019 to raise funds not just for the college directly, but for their students.
“[We] understand that many of these students that attend our local community college are first-generation students that are working parttime and going to school full-time, or even working full-time and going to school full-time,” said Trilogy at The Vineyards Member Beverly Bell and member of the Los Medanos College Board of Directors.
With most Members in The Vineyards community, according to Beverly, holding four-year degrees or higher, they understand the value of support. If they can provide it, they are eager to get involved and make a meaningful difference.
“We understand exactly what help they need and the support we can give,” Beverly says. It really resonated through our community because many Members here understand the value of education and in turn, they feel it's important for these students.”
Giving back to the communities we live in doesn’t stop there. Some of the most generous Trilogy Members are those who gave the most for all of us, our Veterans. The Veterans Club at Trilogy® at Vistancia® leads the way, holding an annual toy drive each Christmas. In 2024, they collected 2,386 toys, the highest number of any organization in Maricopa County.
“I don’t know of another community that is more generous,” said Veterans Club President Scott Duke.
Their commitment goes beyond the toy drive, including serving fellow Veterans with hot meals and other necessities, showing a deep and ongoing dedication to the community.
“A large percentage of our Members are Vietnam era veterans and it just absolutely amazes me that they still want to serve,” Scott said.
This same spirit shines at Trilogy® Lake Norman, where the Veterans Club hosts the Marine Toys for Tots Program that has become a community highlight. In 2024, they collected so many toys that the extras had to be shared with other counties.
To put it in perspective, Trilogy® Lake Norman is in Lincoln County, North Carolina, which spans 295.9 square miles and is home to about 86,810 people, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. Raising that many toys for so many families is truly an impressive achievement.
“We have very, very, very generous people here,” says Veterans Club Member Kent Riddle. “It’s heartwarming to see people that understand their blessings and are able to pass that forward.”
That generosity is driven not only by compassion but also by an awareness of the real needs within their community.
“About 10 percent of our county’s population lives in poverty, and I always try to think about it this way: how would I feel if this were my friend or my child?” Kent says. “I always look forward to getting presents for [my family], so why wouldn’t I want to provide that for someone else, especially during Christmas time?”
Christmas is a wonderful time to give, but it’s not the only time Members do so. On April 3rd, 2025, Trilogy® at Verde River™ hosted the Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS Golf Tournament and Concert, an event filled with community, music, and purpose.
The evening featured Nate Nathan & the MacDaddyO’s, a beloved 11-piece local cover band. Tickets weren’t sold, they were earned through a $50 donation made directly to Augie’s Quest, ensuring that every dollar went toward finding a cure. Thanks to those contributions, $150,000 was raised to help fund promising new drug candidates aimed at slowing, stopping, or even reversing the progression of ALS.
While Members united to support the search for a cure for ALS, the Trilogy® at Lake Frederick Baking Club is rallying around another vital cause: No Kid Hungry.
What began as a simple hobby for Club Leader Susan Hopkins quickly grew into something much bigger. Having baked since childhood
with her Easy-Bake Oven, Susan became the go-to neighborhood baker for every celebration. She saw an opportunity to turn her passion into a way to teach others and decided to combine her two loves, baking and helping children.
“When I saw the response to a demonstration on how to decorate cupcakes, I thought, ‘Wow, if this many people want to learn how to do this, I could probably do really well with a bake sale,’” Susan said.
And that’s exactly what she did. She set up her mini bake shop at events and even expanded her menu for early birds, offering hot breakfast items alongside her sweet treats.
“I started my bake sales and all the money goes to No Kid Hungry,” said Susan. “I was selling out in less than an hour.”
The impact of her efforts went beyond the bake sale table, touching lives in ways she never expected.
“My proudest moment as an aunt was when my niece, a school teacher, went to the principal while they were on strike and said, ‘The kids still need food to eat, and my Aunt Susan raises money for No Kid Hungry. This is how it works.’ They actually received some grant money, and I mean, you talk about pride,” Susan said. “I was never blessed with chil dren, so anything I can do to make kids’ lives easier, I’m all for it.”
Like Susan, and many other Members in our communities, giving isn’t just a project, it’s part of who she is.
“That’s just how our generation was raised,” explained Susan. “If somebody needs something and you have it to share, you do it. It’s just part of who we are.” n
Many Trilogy® communities experience a lively high season and a quieter low season as Members head out in search of warmer (or cooler) temperatures. But what if a change in climate didn’t have to mean a change in lifestyle?
For Members Catherine Austin and Carol Singleton, that’s exactly what life in Trilogy means, the freedom to enjoy two vibrant communities year-round.
After purchasing her home in Trilogy® at Wickenburg Ranch in 2023 –sight unseen – Catherine quickly fell in love with the community’s lifestyle When her career expanded to Seattle in early 2025, she was delighted to discover Verterra® – A Trilogy® Boutique Community® nearby.
“When it rains too much in Washington, we travel to Arizona. When it’s too hot in Arizona, we head to Washington,” she joked.
While Catherine’s journey took her from Arizona to Washington, Carol and her husband Blaine went the opposite direction. After moving to Trilogy® at Tehaleh® in 2020, they soon added a second home in Trilogy®
at Verde RiverTM (which Carol notes was the perfect fit for them) to be closer to their son. Now they travel between Seattle and Phoenix throughout the year, enjoying tennis, fitness, and new friendships at both Clubs.
“I tell people Trilogy is a great place to live,” Carol said. “I like living in a community, versus just a neighborhood.”
Whether in the Sonoran Desert or the Pacific Northwest, both women have found the same thing - a lifestyle filled with connection, activity, and purpose.
“After just a month in Trilogy, I knew more neighbors, had joined more activities, and felt more alive than I had in 20 years,” Catherine shared.
In 2025, Trilogy offered an exclusive two percent Repeat Buyer incentive for Members purchasing a second home in a Trilogy community. Whether purchasing for the first time or beyond, look out for more opportunities to Live Happier®. n
For many years, Trilogy® has been recognized as the premier brand for 55+ communities. As the brand continues to stretch coast to coast, with locations popping up in between, Trilogy is excited to continue to expand its offerings with new locations, new innovations, and new choices for buyers.
Set within the master plan of Centerra in the popular Kinston neighborhood will be the first Trilogy® Boutique Community® in Colorado. The thoughtfully designed homes will be tailored to meet the needs of 55+ buyers and will be paired with community amenities in the planned private Open™ Wellness + Social Club a place where Homeowner Members will gather to eat, meet, drink, play, and work out. The Kinston master plan offers all homeowners an exciting array of amenities, including winding trails through artful neighborhood parks, a demonstration garden and of course The Hub, the café and coffee destination where the entire community comes together, all within easy reach of the new Trilogy Boutique Community.
Located just over 50 miles north of Denver, Loveland is known as the “Sweetheart City” and is considered the “Gateway to the Rockies” due to its proximity to the mountains. Whether you are after an outdoor adventure, a trip into downtown Denver, or want to check out the largest outdoor sculpture show in America right in your backyard, Loveland has a charming downtown with great local boutiques, galleries, and eateries. And a location that puts you square in the middle of Northern Colorado, with easy access to destinations like Fort Collins, Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park and Boulder.
Evergreen is Shea Homes’ largest Houston-area master plan, set on 740 acres in popular Conroe, Texas near The Woodlands, north of Houston. This master planned community is excited to offer the first 55+ Trilogy® Boutique Community® from Shea Homes® in the Houston area, Converde™. In addition to the nature-inspired amenities and a layout that honors the land’s natural environment, the planned Open™ Wellness + Social Club will also be a destination where Homeowner Members and friends gather to eat, meet, drink, play, and work out. The Evergreen master plan amenities offer buyers the chance to enjoy a stunning Clubhouse, sparkling resort pool, and multiple parks and trails winding through lush landscape.
There are so many ways to get out and play at Evergreen. Plan a picnic by the creek or take your dog for a stroll in the park. Explore miles of trails on foot or bike and enjoy the 100 acres of parks and green space, designed to encourage outdoor living. Also, everything you need is conveniently within reach, with easy access to I-45 and just eight miles from The Woodlands, top-tier shopping and dining. n
Katie Everett is the Regional Sales Manager for Trilogy® by Shea Homes® and a Managing Broker in Nevada. Over her 14-year career with Shea Homes, Katie has worked in several Trilogy communities, overseeing home sales in each area she’s served - including Trilogy® Orlando, Trilogy® at Vistancia®, Trilogy® in Summerlin®, and now Trilogy® Sunstone.
MTL: How did you get into real estate and community sales?
KE: I started in new home sales in Denver in 1990, working for a local builder, Esprit Homes, for three years. I was actively involved in the Denver Metro HBA and discovered a niche in the local market - there were many independent home builders that did not have a sales and marketing branch of their organization. In 1994, I started Classic New Home Sales, a local sales and marketing company providing on-site staffing and advertising for 20 to 25 different clients. We successfully sold out many new home communities in Denver. I sold my company in 2009 and moved to Florida. When I arrived, I realized I wasn’t ready to retire - but I would love to sell homes driving a golf cart! I contacted Shea Homes and was hired as the Sales Manager for Trilogy Orlando.
MTL: Which communities have you lived in?
KE: I have lived in all of the communities that I’ve managed.
MTL: At what point did you first choose to purchase a home in a Trilogy community?
KE: When I was hired to manage Trilogy Orlando, there were some resale homes available, and my desire was to live close to my work! I wanted to ride a golf cart to work, so I purchased a resale home in the Trilogy Orlando community.
MTL: What unique perspectives do you think living in the community provides?
KE: I love living in my Trilogy communities. Because you’re living in the community, you make new friends and that’s among the best feelings you can experience. I truly believe that where you live can make you happier. Being a part of these communities means you share, first-hand, the joys, hardships, and many organic life experiences with each other. We all pitch in and help each other when needs arise. I love sitting on my front porch on Sunday mornings after we take Lucy for her walk - friends come by, we laugh, chat, and plan our next big Trilogy adventure!
MTL: Do you ever worry about work being so close to home?
KE: No, I don’t. My neighbors are very respectful of my time when I am not working.
MTL: What is your favorite part of your job?
KE: This is an easy question for me. By far, my favorite part of my job is watching sales team members grow and develop a craft, especially when they come from outside industries. I affectionately LOVE watching my Starbucks managers or bartenders turn into top-tier sales consultants. That is really rewarding for me.
MTL: What is one thing you’ve learned that you share with all members of your team?
KE: My heart is grateful for the opportunity to be here and to be a part of a company that I truly love.
This year, Katie won the Sales Manager of the Year for the Southern Nevada Home Builder Association. She currently lives in Trilogy Sunstone with her husband, Gene, and their dog, Lucy. The couple has two grown sons, both married to wonderful women, and seven beautiful grandchildren in Denver, Colorado. When she’s not working, she’s usually visiting her family there. n
“YOU EITHER HAVE IT, OR YOU DON’T.”
That’s how Sara Rainey describes the hospitable spirit and servant heart that has guided her throughout her career, and for the past eight years as National Lifestyle Director for BlueStar Resort & Golf, Trilogy’s trusted hospitality partner. This March, Sara will officially retire from that role, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the Trilogy® lifestyle as we know it.
That “it” has defined Sara’s entire career, one that began far from resorts or hotels, when she was a young girl bailing hay in rural Illinois. Her path led her through the ranks of the hotel industry, largely in Food & Beverage, culminating in leading the banquet operation at the prestigious Phoenician Resort before joining BlueStar as Lifestyle Manager at Encanterra®, a Trilogy® Resort Community, in 2010.
From 2010 to 2017, Sara’s passion for Member engagement, and program ideation and execution made her a standout leader. When BlueStar’s President & Founder Tim Steckbeck recognized the need for one central leader to unify the vision of Lifestyle Directors across the country, Sara was the clear choice.
She stepped into the role of National Lifestyle Director with characteristic confidence, curiosity, and care.
“My first year, I visited every BlueStar location, meeting with field teams to see how I could best support them,” Sara shared. “That experience became my foundation. To this day, I hold one-on-one meetings with each Lifestyle Director, host monthly calls, and lead an annual conference.”
From that foundation, Sara built the framework of lifestyle programming that now radiates through every Trilogy community. Each year’s National Lifestyle Calendar - proudly displayed on fridges across the country –highlights signature programs Members look forward to, such as Motion
Month, Cup of Cozy, Beat the Heat, Gait-to-Gate (Sara’s personal favorite), and Exploration Week. Each theme empowers local teams to get creative and craft memorable experiences for their Members.
The results have been transformative, not just for those who live in Trilogy communities, but for the Trilogy brand itself.
“I’m proud to have created a plan that our Trilogy partners are proud of, too,” Sara reflected. “It takes time, dedication, and listening to Member feedback. This business is always evolving, and for that reason, I believe my work will never truly be finished.”
For Sara, though, the work has never felt like work.
“You get out of it what you put into it,” she said. “At BlueStar, it’s about knowing you can make a larger impact.”
That impact can be felt in every community and by every Lifestyle Director she’s mentored, all connected by relationships built on trust, respect, and teamwork.
Sara’s legacy mirrors BlueStar’s own core values: honesty and integrity, teamwork, safety and respect, and competitive spirit. She has lived those values daily.
“This has been the most rewarding journey of my life,” Sara said. “I love when a Member tells me that moving into a Trilogy community has made a difference in their life.”
As she enters retirement, Sara looks forward to spending more time with her husband John, traveling, nurturing her wellness routine, becoming a Master Gardener, and volunteering. Though she’s closing her professional chapter, her servant heart, and that unmistakable “it,” will continue to shine. n
MTL: Can you share a little about your background?
KL: I’ve been truly blessed to work across all sectors – public, private, and nonprofit – in increasingly highly visible leadership roles over the course of my 34-year career. I’m especially proud of my eight plus years of public service in the City and County of Denver, culminating in the creation of the 250-acre National Western Center, a billiondollar investment to establish the global destination for agricultural heritage and innovation across five partners. As I reflect on my career, a common theme among all sectors has been assembling and developing teams to deliver on shared goals. From sports and entertainment, community-building, to most recently leading the opening and operation of multiple active adult lifestyle clubs in two states, I am forever grateful for the chance to bring a broad range of people together for a shared purpose.
MTL: You have done a lot of things throughout your career. What excites you most about this new role?
KL: I am really looking forward to working with an organization that wakes up and goes to sleep thinking about how we execute a shared commitment to improving hospitality experiences each day. I’m especially excited to begin learning from the team of amazing professionals that Sara has developed and supports across the country. Over the past couple of years my thinking has shifted to how we contribute, in a passionate way, to helping 55+ communities continue to grow, learn, and prosper. BlueStar is an amazing organization, and as I learned more, I knew that this was the team I needed to work for at this stage of my career. I am especially excited about BlueStar’s continued exploration of new concepts and am looking forward to contributing to their development and success.
MTL: Lifestyle is at the core of who Trilogy is. Knowing how important it is to the brand, where do you see opportunities?
KL: First, I need to acknowledge I have some big shoes to fill in following the phenomenal career Sara Rainey has modeled for lifestyle services.
Second, the BlueStar brand and partnership with Trilogy is second to none. The core ideals of connecting, wellness, and freedom set the stage for what’s possible. With that context, my longstanding practice for my first 90 days is to listen, ask questions, and explore likeminded hospitality organizations to define the opportunities as a team. As I travel to Trilogy communities, I’m eager to interact with BlueStar and Trilogy leadership, site-based teams, and our Members. Ultimately, new and interesting patterns will emerge across BlueStar’s growing network of communities in service of our Members, creating a collection of powerful experiences, which make people never want to leave (a fulfillment of our purpose).
MTL: What do you enjoy away from work?
KL: Reading, morning walks, and playing golf. Each offers opportunities to engage a blend of mind and body experiences while allowing time for introspection and self-reflection.
Kelly currently lives in Central Phoenix with his wife, Kelly (yes, they are both named Kelly), and their cat, Mercy. The couple has two college-aged students, Campbell and Brody. Their daughter Campbell just graduated from Arizona State in May, and their son Brody is a sophomore at the University of Wyoming. When he’s not working, he loves spending time with his family in Denver, Kansas, and Arizona. n
“WE LOVE LIVING HERE - IT'S A TERRIFIC PLACE FOR AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE.”
“Moving to Trilogy was the best decision I could have made.”
“I love Trilogy and I am so happy that I made the decision to move here a year ago. It has truly changed my life.”
Each year we survey all Members across the country to get a better understanding of what we are doing well and where we can improve. Here is some of what was said in 2025:
“We made a very good move to come here from Iowa.
REGRETS!!!”
“We moved here in Feburary of 2017, and there has not been one day we've regretted our decision. We love everything about this community!”
“THIS IS MY 29TH HOME AND IT IS BY FAR THE BEST COMMUNITY I HAVE EVER LIVED IN!!!”
“Love Trilogy! My wife always says ‘how could we live anywhere else!’”
“The friends I have met while living here are priceless. I love all the clubs and activites offered. I love my neighbors. This is a wonderful place to live.”
“Everyday is a vacation day, it’s like living on a cruise ship on land!”
“I am so busy and this makes me very happy. I love the amenities. Every day I am so thankful that I can live here.”
"TRILOGY HAS EXCEEDED MY ORIGINAL EXPECTATIONS EVER SINCE MOVING HERE NINE YEARS AGO."
“Moving to Trilogy has been a wonderful decision. We are so happy with the lifestyle here and the friends we've made!”
“I TELL MY FRIENDS... I AM LIVING MY BEST LIFE!”
Sales: Shea Homes Marketing Company (CA DRE #01378646), & (FL #CQ1034437). Shea Communities Marketing Company (AZ DRE #CO001121001), (ID #CO53675), (NC #C25840), (NV #B.1002134.CORP), (SC #24982), & (WA #19548). Construction By: SHALC GC, INC. (AZ ROC#291056), (CA CSLB #1062050), (FL #CRC1335223), (ID # RCE-56939), (NC #75061), (NV #0080574), (SC #123827), (VA #2705152813), & (WA #SHALCGI863P9). Seller: SH AA Kinston, LLC Shea Homes Limited Partnership (CA CSLB #855368). Shea Homes, Inc. (CA CSLB #672285). Homes in Converde™, A Trilogy® Boutique Community®, Ridgecrest™, a Trilogy® Boutique Community®, Kindred & Balfour, Lake Frederick, Lake Norman, Nevina, A Trilogy® Boutique Community®, Sunstone, Tehaleh, ThreeOaks—a Trilogy® Boutique Community®, Trilogy® San Juan Oaks, Tammaron at Lake Sawyer, Valor, Verterra®, A Trilogy® Boutique Community®, Vineyards and Vistancia locations are intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years of age or older, with
or
From National Parks and Nashville during the holidays to cruising the Mediterranean Sea and embarking on an African Safari, our Members take adventure seriously! about Explore 360, our exclusive Trilogy® travel program, by scanning the QR code.
