LIFESTYLE
LETTER FROM THE LIFESTYLE TEAM
A note on what's coming up
TEAM SPOTLIGHT
Meet Scott Wilson
TRAVEL
Destinations by Esplanade
FEATURED EVENT
Sunday Polo
PET FEATURE
Furry Friend: Bagheera
CULINARY
Sunday Brunch
CONCIERGE
Exclusive offerings, just for you!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Debi & Michael O’Leary
COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP
NWF: Help Backyard Wildlife
GET INVOLVED
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Recent Events
Upcoming
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Conrad Tidswell, General Manager 941-253-2925
Conrad.Tidswell@TeamEsplanade.com
Doug Walkowiak, Community Association Manager, 941-253-2910
Doug.Walkowiak@TeamEsplanade.com
Chris McDonald, Food & Beverage Director, 941-253-2908
Chris.McDonald@TeamEsplanade.com
Ashley Tuohy, Assistant Community Association Manager, 941-253-2913
Ashley.Tuohy@TeamEsplanade.com
Felicia Frickx, Lifestyle Manager Felicia.Frickx@TeamEsplanade.com
Mary Winter, Wellness and Sports Director, 941-253-2921
Mary.Winter@TeamEsplanade.com
Stephen Smith, Landscaping Manager
Stephen.Smith@TeamEsplanade.com
Charlie Spina, Courts Manager Charlie.Spina@TeamEsplanade.com
AZARIO GOLF
Mike Tuohy, PGA, Director of Golf 941-253-2911
Mike.Tuohy@TeamEsplanade.com
TAYLOR MORRISON SALES
Sales Gallery Hours Sun, 12 - 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Community Sales Team
Maria Amundson 941-462-5871 MAmundson@TaylorMorrison.com
Melanie Byrnes 941-773-4109 MByrnes@TaylorMorrison.com
Joey DeStefano 941-724-5639
JDeStefano@TaylorMorrison.com
Rod Mesplay 863-266-7769
RMesplay@TaylorMorrison.com
Elizabeth Sherwood 949-400-6677
ESherwood@TaylorMorrison.com
Levent Yamuk 941-320-3006
LYamuk@TaylorMorrison.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
FELICIA FRICKX YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Happy New Year!
Cheers to new beginnings and good times ahead! The start of a new year feels like a blank canvas—a fresh opportunity to dream big, chase after your goals, and rediscover what inspires you. It’s a time to embrace new experiences, nurture connections, and fill every day with purpose and joy.
In January, we’ll kick off the year with unforgettable experiences including Sunday Polo at the Sarasota Polo Club, informational seminars including AI Tech and Fraud Prevention, and a vibrant performance by the Blue Man Group at the Van Wezel. February keeps the excitement going with MJ the Musical at the Van Wezel, Azario’s 4th Annual Chili Cook-off, and The Big Game at the Bahama Bar.
As you review the upcoming activities and events on the interactive calendar, please remember to register for any events and activities you would like to attend. This helps tremendously in making sure all activities are executed flawlessly and all who sign up to attend are accommodated.
Here’s to another wonderful year together—full of friendship, laughter, and unforgettable moments right here in our community!
Scott Wilson, PGA
YOUR HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL
Scott discovered his passion for golf at 14 after moving from Alaska to Southern California. Over his career, he’s worked at top clubs across the U.S., including Rancho Bernardo Inn, La Costa Resort, Spyglass Hill, Bent Pine GC, and Streamsong Resort. A 30-year PGA member, Scott has served on the PGA Board of Directors, hosted the USGA Women’s Fourball Championship, and taught a U.S. Women’s Amateur Champion. His dedication has earned him honors such as Southern California PGA Golf Professional of the Year and finalist for the national award, along with multiple PGA accolades.
Scott is known for championing staff, operations, and Member service, while staying active in teaching and playing. He’s deeply committed to giving back through fundraising for Folds of Honor and teaching veterans in PGA HOPE. Recently, Scott celebrated playing his 1,000th golf course, including many of Golf Digest’s and Golf Magazine’s top-ranked courses.
He and his wife, Annie, are celebrating 30 years of marriage, have two daughters—Nelly in NYC and Gracey in Boston—both working in tech. The couple has lived in Lakewood Ranch for 13 years.
Text coming soon...
Join us for the 2026 Season of Sarasota Polo and experience “the fastest game on four feet!” Enjoy an exciting polo match, an opening parade, live national anthem, themed events, halftime entertainment, and traditional divot-stomping. Esplanade at Azario has reserved dedicated space for our Members. Space is limited, register on EsplanadeAzarioLifestlye.com calendar. January 11, February 15, March 15 & April 12 Polo Match: 1 - 4 p.m. Sarasota Polo Club 8201 Polo Club Lane
Furry Friends
Meet Bagheera
LOVED BY THE MYRON FAMILY
Bagheera’s story begins 13 years ago on a farm in New Hampshire, where she was found as a tiny, abandoned kitten behind a barn door. She was brought to the owners of a nearby summer camp and named after the panther from The Jungle Book. Our 12-yearold son Bradley was attending the camp. When he discovered the camp owner was allergic to cats, he wrote home every day for a week begging to bring her back to Massachusetts. Having recently lost our 17-year-old cat, Spenser, our family felt the timing was right and welcomed Bagheera home.
From the start, Bagheera showed her quirky personality. She developed a fascination with water, regularly curling up to nap in sinks or appearing out of thin air whenever a faucet was turned on. A later DNA test revealed she is part Maine Coon and part Norwegian Forest Cat. These days, Bagheera enjoys the good life. She prefers to nap on any available lap, loves spending time on the lanai, and “chatter-chirps” enthusiastically at the birds that land on the cage. She is, however, not a fan of thunderstorms or doorbells and will promptly disappear at the slightest rumble or ring.
Bagheera has strong separation anxiety, often crying when she can’t find her people in the house and faithfully waiting by the door for our return. Over the years she has… let’s say… made her feelings known to several unsuspecting pet sitters, particularly when she feels her humans have been away far too long. Her dramatic “welcome home” messages have been memorable.
A selective eater, Bagheera prefers simple kitty kibble and insists that water be served in a cup rather than a bowl. She’s also a frequent visitor to the refrigerator, where she positions herself strategically, knowing her adorable stare may earn her a tiny taste of whipped cream. She is also known to appear right when you’re finishing a bowl of anything, offering a loud meow to remind you
she’s available to assist with the last few bites. Bagheera takes great pride in “catching” the toy mice hidden around the house. She then parades them to her humans, meowing triumphantly as she delivers her latest accomplishment.
Now that she’s entering her golden years, Bagheera has begun showing a few “old lady” quirks and ailments. Fortunately, she has the very best care—her family’s daughter is currently attending the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, ensuring that Bagheera will be thoroughly spoiled and expertly looked after throughout her geriatric years.
From barn kitten to beloved queen of the lanai, Bagheera has lived a life full of love, personality, and unforgettable moments. She brings joy, drama, and plenty of stories to our family—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
WANT TO FEATURE YOUR PET?
Contact your Lifestyle Manager to be featured in the next edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures.
Sunday Brunch
Sunday, January 25 | 10 a.m.
Barrel House Bistro
Join your neighbors and enjoy a delicious brunch for $55+, with optional bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys and a special $20+ price for kids 12 and under. Guests can indulge in a variety of stations, including a Seafood Station, Carving Station, Omelet Station, Main Buffet, Salad Station, Pastry Station, and Dessert Station.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We’ll continue to build and foster these relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of a business that would like to partner with Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. To see full details on all offerings, visit esplanadeazariolifestyle.com/concierge.
GOLF
TROON ACCESS
Members receive 25% off a Troon Access Membership. Golfers experience the World of Troon at the best rates at more than 150 world-class courses. Use code “ESPLANADE25” when registering. troon.com/access
HEALTH & WELLNESS
BRAIN & BODY CHIROPRACTIC, THE WELLNESS WAY
Food Allergy Testing & More 10% Off All Services 941-702-0553
ARSENAULT AESTHETICS
Azario Members receive 10% off services and skincare products. arsenaultaesthetics.com 941-264-1161
PET SERVICES
K9 REVIVE
All-Natural Dog Supplements 10% off using the code AZARIO10. k9revive.com
BAYSIDE PET RESORT
10% off services. 941-755-3047 baysidepetresort.com
LUXURY PET SPA
Mobile Pet Grooming 10% Off Stanley: 941-330-3414
DELIVERING DANA’S DOGGIES
Local pet transport service providing safe and comfortable transportation for your cherished pets. Offering 10% off to Azario Members. Roy: 941-465-3717
CAR SERVICES
SARASOTA AIRPORT, SHUTTLE & TRANSPORTATION
Private passenger transportation to all Florida airports, cruise ports, entertainment venues, sports arenas. Long distance point-to-point. Luxury large capacity SUV / Van service. Mention this ad for 10% off 239-410-9748
SuncoastAirportShuttle.com
KEITH BLOSEY Car Service 239-410-9748 keithblosey@gmail.com
JAX CAR WASH
Complimentary car wash (one per person) and 10% off detailing services. 941-746-9274 jaxkarwashfl.com/freebestwash
WOODY’S CAR WASH
$10 off per month on the top 3 membership packages. Use code “AZARIO10” at checkout. 855-559-3355 | woodieswash.com
CELEBRATORY YARD SIGNS
SIGN DREAMERS OF BRADENTON
$60/day for a Single Day Sign Rental
Derek Pardue: 941-773-5766
CONCIERGE SERVICES
CARVER CONCIERGE SERVICES
Free consultation & 10% off 1st month. 813-546-4070 | carverconcierge.com
SPORTING GOODS
VANHUNKS BOARDING
10% off a full price board or boat. Tyrone: 941-218-9095 vanhunksboarding.com
HOME SERVICES
ELEMENT PRO
Elevate the cleanliness of your home with our premium cleaning services. 10% off all home cleaning packages. Mario: 941-549-0023
HOMEWORX
Custom Accent & Fireplace Walls, Built-In’s, Interior Painting, Ceiling Designs, Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring and Wainscoting. Light Fixture and Ceiling Fan Installations. 973-886-7399
homeworxproservices.com
HOME SERVICES BY PETER
All Home Services Available 10% off & free consultation. 941-893-7131
PARADISE GRILLS & OUTDOOR KITCHENS 10-20% off retail. 941-271-3048 | paradisegrills.com
STOP SLIP SOLUTIONS INC. 10% off surfaces safer to walk on. Mary Ann Hollander: 941-600-8031 stopslipsolutionsinc.com
ZINGA’S
Blinds, Shutters, Shades, Outdoor Screen Shades and Awnings 20% off all products (excluding pergolas).
$1,500 off any power pergola. 844-494-6427 | zingashome.com
CRUISING
SRQ CRUISES
Experienced cruise consultant offering additional discounts and onboard credit. Let me plan your unforgettable adventure! 941-271-1539 | SRQcruises.com
Debi & Michael O’Leary
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
Mike and Debi O’Leary’s story began with a blind date neither of them wanted, but fate had other plans. It was love at first sight, and just seven months later they were exchanging vows in Hawaii. This year, they proudly celebrated 45 years of marriage and adventure.
Their passion for exploring the world has taken them to six of the seven continents and more than 40 countries. Some of their most memorable experiences include African safaris, standing before the pyramids of Egypt, and cruising through the sun-soaked Greek islands. Whenever possible, their beloved fur baby, Coco, tags along for the ride. In every destination, Mike continues a sweet tradition: carving a heart in the sand with “Debi + Mike” at the center. Their next bucket-list journey? A long-anticipated trip to Japan to see the iconic cherry blossoms.
Originally from Colorado and Wisconsin, Debi and Mike now call Azario their slice of paradise. They love attending Signature Events for music and dancing, relaxing by the pool, and celebrating with neighbors at holiday pool parties. What they cherish most is the “first-class” experience they feel every day, no matter which amenity they’re enjoying.
Mike is an active member of the Photography Club, while Debi fills her calendar with Book Club, Girlfriends Happy Hour, and the Dining Divas. Together, they frequently escape to Anna Maria Island, walking miles along the beach before settling in for dinner and live music.
Whether traveling the world or enjoying the vibrant lifestyle here at home, Mike and Debi bring warmth, joy, and a spirit of adventure everywhere they go. We’re delighted to have them as part of our Azario community!
Help Backyard Wildlife W
inter is here and it’s a perfect time to spend a Green Hour® helping backyard wildlife thrive throughout the season. Many of the beneficial insects, birds, and small animals in your backyard may find it harder to find shelter, water, and food in the coming months. You can help by simply placing a shallow dish of water in a sunny spot in your backyard. If you place a container on the ground, add a rock or two near the edge to help smaller creatures crawl out. Keep the containers clean and refill when low. Find more tips and activities from the National Wildlife Federation by scanning the QR code or visit thegreenhour.org/ activity/help-backyard-wildlife.
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today.
Current Groups & Clubs
AZARIO BAR CRAWL CLUB
Doneen Hoffman: 703-472-5211 or doneenhoffman@yahoo.com
AZARIO LADIES GAMERS
Cristine Radice: ccradice@gmail.com
AZARIO OUT AND ABOUT
Jeannine D’Allegro: 908-432-0829 or dallegro0106@gmail.com
AZARIO RUN/WALK CLUB
John D’Allegro: johnd742@icloud.com
AZARIO SPORTING CLUB
Eric Kunkel: 708-565-3918 or kunks57@gmail.com
AZARIO SUNSET SISTERS
Cristine Radice: ccradice@gmail
AZARIO WOMEN’S GOLF
Sue Jebson: susanjebson@yahoo.com
BIRD WATCHING CLUB
Mary Alice: macurtiss@me.com or 571-216-1377.
BOOK CLUB
Susan Parelman: stodd49@yahoo.com
Sheri Schiff: sherischiff@comcast.net
Myra Perlis: mymyperlis@gmail.com
BOWLING CLUB
Gary Lanser: garylanser@gmail.com
BUNCO CLUB
3rd Thursday | 6:30 - 8 p.m. | The Venue
Darla Perz: darlaperz@outlook.com or 412-400-5790
Jennifer Chudy: 845-664-1913
CANASTA CLUB
Wednesday | 1 - 4 p.m. | The Venue
Susan Parelman: stodd49@gmail.com or 847-707-2402
CURATED KITCHEN
Jawan Goodspeed: jawan@vt.edu or 571-528-4542
CREATIVE ARTS CLUB
3rd Tuesday | Locations & Times Vary
Nancy Borchers: 513-379-2747 or nancy.borchers@gmail.com
CORNHOLE CLUB
Select Tuesdays | 6 - 8 p.m. | The Venue Tom Vandehey: tomvandehey@outlook.com or 941-324-6092
CYCLING CLUB
Richard Josephson: 330-414-2905 or josephson.richard@gmail.com
DINING DIVAS
Betts Murdison: bettsm67@att.net or 706-836-7030
EUCHRE CLUB
Steve Barr: 248-535-4838 or stevebarr32@gmail.com
EVENING SOCIAL BRIDGE
Lizanne Snyder: lizannesnyder@gmail.com or 908-279 -5767
FILM CLUB
Steve Gold: 845-558-1266 or stevegold53@gmail.com
GARDEN CLUB
Fourth Saturday | 1 - 3 p.m. Rosemary Vermost: 309-721-1213 or rosesbeaches@gmail.com
GIRLFRIENDS HAPPY HOUR
Last Tuesday The Venue Shelley Johnson: 419-571-3609 or ksjohnson6366@gmail.com
ITALIAN CLUB
Tom Ricketts: azarioitalianclub@gmail.com or 248-866-0761
LADIES 9-HOLE GOLF CLUB
Marilyn Marshall: marmarsh56@gmail.com
MAHJONG CLUB
Tues, 1 p.m. & Thur, 2:30 p.m. | The Venue Tue. - Barbara Drew: bdmeetings@gmail. com; Thu. - Kathleen Piper: 352-362-8255
MEANINGFUL MANHOOD
John Lewis: 704-650-7343 or john_s_lewis@yahoo.com
MEANINGFUL WOMEN
Jen Champion: jenchampion01@gmail.com or 402-681-0625
OUT AND ABOUT CLUB
Jeannine D’Allegro: jdallegro0106@gmail.com
PAJAMA CLUB
Heidi Lemay: hmc32@hotmail.com or 978-766-0660
PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
First Tuesday | 10 - 11:30 a.m.
The Venue
Steven Wolfson: vonwolf.sw@gmail.com or 516-317-4808
PICKLEBALL CLUB
Darla Perz: 412-400-5790 or darlaperz@outlook.com
PLANT BASED EATING FOR EVERYONE cfrazier731@gmail.com
SAMBA CLUB
First Three Fridays | 1 p.m.
The Venue
Antoinette Gambardella: 516-428-1206 or acgambardella@gmail.com
TENNIS CLUBS
Ladies Tennis - Lisa Powell: 770-238-6563
Azario Tennis
Gabby Ferraro: 201-394-6338
TEXAS HOLD EM CLUB
Dave Hobart: mfd259@aol.com or 516-523-4212
TOGETHER WE CAN GROUP
Patti Barr: togetherwecanazario@gmail.com
TRAVEL CLUB
Harsha Reddy: harshareddy798@gmail.com
Recent Events
Veterans Day
CEREMONY
We gathered at the flagpole to honor and celebrate our Members who proudly served our country. The ceremony was a heartfelt moment of gratitude, reflection, and community as we recognized their dedication and sacrifice. Each veteran received a special token of appreciation along with a sweet treat from a local bakery. The day was a meaningful reminder of the bravery and commitment of those who have served, and the profound impact they have on our lives.
Murder Mystery DINNER PARTY
Members stepped back in time for a thrilling night at our ‘50s Sock Hop Murder Mystery Dinner. Poodle skirts, leather jackets, and vintage vibes set the scene as guests worked together to unravel the clues behind a shocking “murder” that rocked the dance floor.
Howl-O-Ween
PET PARADE
Dozens of furry friends strutted their stuff in adorable, spooky, and downright hilarious Halloween costumes, delighting everyone along the parade route. Pets enjoyed plenty of treats, belly rubs, and photo ops, while their humans cheered them on. We wrapped up with prizes for our costume winners, making the celebration even sweeter.
Halloween
SPOOKTACULAR
Members enjoyed a delicious fajita buffet packed with all the toppings, followed by a night of DJ entertainment, dancing, and festive fun. Creative costumes filled the room, leading to a costume contest with plenty of laughs and cheers. With great food, lively music and friends, it was the perfect way to celebrate the spooky season.
Recent Events
Azario Men’s Member
GUEST TOURNAMENT
The inaugural Esplanade at Azario Men’s Member Guest Tournament took place on October 24-26, and set the bar incredibly high for years to come. This sold-out event brought together 60 talented two-man teams for a full weekend of competition and camaraderie. Festivities kicked off with a casual Practice Round on Friday, giving players a chance to warm up, reconnect, and soak in the atmosphere before the real action began.
Over Saturday and Sunday, teams battled their way through 45 thrilling holes to earn a coveted spot in the final shootout. The dramatic finish unfolded on the 9th and 18th holes Sunday afternoon, where spectators lined the greens and cheered on the remaining 12 teams. One by one, teams were eliminated until only a single duo remained—our first-ever Shootout Champions! Beyond the leaderboard, the weekend was filled with incredible memories, friendly competition, and the beginning of what promises to be a beloved club tradition year after year.
La Dolce Vita Nights
SIGNATURE EVENT
Members were transported to the charm of the Italian countryside. The evening featured a delicious spread of authentic Italian cuisine, beautifully complemented by rustic décor that set the perfect ambiance. Guests captured memories at the lively photo booth and danced the night away, creating a warm, joy-filled celebration inspired by the sweet life.
Upcoming Events
Keep an eye on weekly Lifestyle emails for more fun and enriching events! All activities and events are subject to change. Visit esplanadeazariolifestyle.com to see the most up-to-date information.
FRAUD PREVENTION SEMINAR
Tuesday, January 6 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for an informative seminar presented by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Department on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud and scams. Learn practical tips to recognize suspicious activity, safeguard personal information, and respond effectively if you encounter fraud. Gain insights from experts and take proactive steps to stay safe in today’s increasingly complex financial landscape.
SPEED FRIENDING SOCIAL
Saturday, January 10 | 4 - 6 p.m.
The Venue
Whether you’re new to the community or just looking to meet more neighbors, this event is the perfect way to spark new connections. You’ll spend a few minutes chatting one-on-one with other attendees before rotating to meet someone new. We’ll provide conversation prompts, and plenty of good vibes—just bring your friendly spirit!
MIDWEEK MELODIES
Wednesday, January 21 | 6 - 8 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for an evening of good vibes and live music! Enjoy the sounds of Sonic Sol as you unwind midweek with friends and neighbors. Please bring your own beverages and food to enjoy. The Lifestyle team will provide water and sweet treats to share.
Monthly Member Meetings
ESPLANADE 101
Tuesdays, January 13 & February 10
10 a.m. | Zoom
Join us for new homeowner orientation with the Lifestyle Manager and Community Association Manager as we introduce you to everything Esplanade. Come with questions!
MJ THE MUSICAL
Wednesday, February 4 | 7 - 9 p.m.
Van Wezel | $134
Join your fellow Members with special group pricing and great seating at MJ the Musical, a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical that tells the story of Michael Jackson, focusing on the creative process and personal pressures behind his 1992 Dangerous World Tour. The show features many of his hit songs and showcases the iconic choreography of the “King of Pop” through performances of different stages of his life, from his time with the Jackson 5 to his solo career.
ANN MAE POP UP BAKERY
Friday, February 6 | 9 - 11 a.m.
The Venue
Treat yourself to something sweet! Swing by to explore a tempting selection of Ann Mae Bakery’s homemade goodies. Choose from a variety of pastries and desserts with a fun twist.
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Thursdays, January 15 & February 19 10 a.m. | Zoom
Join your Community Association Manager for the most current updates about your community. Meetings will be held in person and via Zoom.
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Thursdays, January 29 & February 26
9:30 a.m. | The Venue
Join your Lifestyle Manager for coffee and conversation, as we discuss the latest and greatest Lifestyle news in a relaxed and social atmosphere.
SIP Wine Events
Perelada Wine Dinner
Members enjoyed a truly immersive culinary journey during our Perelada Wine Dinner, hosted by Patrice Lesclaux of Perelada Winery in Empordà, Spain. Each wine was expertly paired with Chef Mike’s Spanish-inspired dishes, beginning with a sparkling Cava Stars Touch of Rosé reception and continuing through bright whites, elegant reds, and bold, expressive blends. From jamon with Garnatxa Blanca to wild Spanish sardines paired with Finca-Espolla, and a beautifully stuffed quail complemented by Aires-de-Garbet, every course showcased the harmony between Perelada’s wines and classic Spanish flavors. The evening concluded with a standout blood orange pinenut cake and Finca Malaveina—an unforgettable finish to a night of exceptional food, wine, and warm company.
Sojourn Wine Dinner
Members were treated to an exceptional evening of culinary artistry and world-class wines at our Sojourn Wine Dinner, celebrating the expressive elegance of Sojourn Cellars. Founded by two friends driven by a shared passion for discovery, Sojourn has earned acclaim for crafting Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon that truly let the vineyards speak. Executive Chef Mike Mann designed a vibrant, flavor-forward menu to highlight the unique character of each wine, creating a journey through Sonoma and Napa in every sip and bite.
Fitness Spotlights
Alisha Laps TRAINER SPOTLIGHT
I was born and raised in Sarasota, Florida. I discovered my love for fitness at 14 years old. Even though fitness motivated me from a young age, I chose to begin my career in healthcare. I worked as a dental hygienist for 24 years, helping patients and building strong relationships. During this time, I also raised three daughters as a single mother, which taught me strength, patience, and determination.
During quarantine, I decided it was time to follow my true passion. I became a certified personal trainer and fitness instructor. This change allowed me to help people in a new and meaningful way.
As a trainer, I focus on creating a positive and encouraging environment. I enjoy helping people feel stronger, more confident, and proud of their progress. Whether I work with clients in a group class or one-on-one, I aim to support them and help them reach their individual goals.
Today, I’m grateful to be in the fitness world. My journey from healthcare to personal training shows that it’s never too late to follow what inspires you.
Pam Miller
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
I’ve been a Member at Azario for about two years now, and fitness has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. When I first moved to Florida, I struggled to find a gym that really felt like “home.” I’ve always believed that fitness only works if you truly enjoy where you’re doing it, and here at Azario, I finally found that place. The instructors, staff, and fellow Members create such a welcoming and supportive environment. There’s a real sense of camaraderie the moment you walk into class.
I love Tabata, Core & More, Mind Body, and any class that incorporates strength training. For me, fitness isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way of life and a core part of who I am. I want to stay independent, live longer, and fully enjoy my time. Recently, I participated in a 5-minute plank challenge with other Members, and it was amazing to push one another, stay accountable, and celebrate our progress together. That kind of support is what makes the journey so meaningful.
Staying active gives me confidence in my everyday life and the stamina to enjoy the things I love, like traveling, long walks on the beach and days spent boating with my husband, Bruce Giacoma. My advice to anyone starting or continuing their fitness journey is simple: fitness is for you. You owe it to yourself to live a long, healthy life in the body you have. Don’t quit when it gets tough. Put your mind to it, and you’ll be amazed at what you can do.
Think Pink Golf Tournament
On November 10, Azario turned PINK! Though it was a blustery, cold day, the enthusiasm exuded from all who came out to be part of this amazing event. With the efforts of the Women’s Golf Association (AWGA), participants, volunteers and donors, the THINK PINK charity golf outing was able to exceed its goal and raise $63,500 to support breast cancer awareness and research. With our generous donors of Taylor Morrison, Troon, Storm Smart, and several others, every dollar is going to Moffitt Cancer Center to fund additional research and development.
This year’s event welcomed 136 golfers and 36 dedicated volunteers, all of whom gave their time, energy, and enthusiasm to support breast cancer research. Thanks to their generosity, as well as the tremendous support from our donors, local businesses, and the greater community, we hosted an exciting day featuring chance drawings, silent auctions, and a spirited live auction.
The donations, sponsorships and participation made this event truly special. Every dollar, every hour volunteered, and every kind word shared, helped create a sense of community and hope that reminds us why we do what we do. Together, we are making a real difference in the fight against breast cancer by spreading awareness, supporting survivors, and honoring those we’ve lost.
We are hoping with everyone’s continued support, that we can make an even greater impact next year. From the entire THINK PINK team, thank you for standing with us, for believing in our cause, and for helping us turn compassion into action. Until next year!
