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LIFESTYLE

LETTER FROM THE LIFESTYLE TEAM

A note on what's coming up

TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Meet Kenyon Kyle

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Committee Feature

SIGNATURE EVENT

La Dolce Vita

PET FEATURE

Furry Friends: Leo & Frank

COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP

NWF: Watch a Bat Ballet

CONCIERGE

Exclusive offerings, just for you!

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

Delaney Anderson, Lifestyle Manager Delaney.Anderson@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 Levent Yamuk 941-320-3006 LYamuk@TaylorMorrison.com

Dianne Christian 813-545-8337 DChristian@TaylorMorrison.com

Maria Amundson 941-462-5871

MAmundson@TaylorMorrison.com

Melanie Byrnes 941-773-4109

MByrnes@TaylorMorrison.com

Elizabeth Sherwood: 949-400-6677 ESherwood@TaylorMorrison.com

Rod Mesplay: 863-266-7769

RMesplay@TaylorMorrison.com

EsplanadeAzarioLifestyle.com 800-720-0028 Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Letter From the Lifestyle Team

DELANEY ANDERSON YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER

Fall is on the Way!

While we may still feel the Florida heat, the season brings fresh energy, festive decorations, and a full calendar of exciting events to enjoy with friends and neighbors. As the leaves (slowly) change and routines settle back in, it’s the perfect time to dive into all the fun planned for September and October.

We’re kicking off the season with the Marine Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Seminar on September 2 at The Venue. Learn how sea turtles and marine mammals are rescued, rehabilitated, and released—and how you can support this important work. Then, join us for Bingo Night late in the month, always a crowd favorite filled with laughter and a little friendly competition. A couple of days later, warm up those vocal cords for Karaoke Night, where you can sing your heart out or just cheer on your neighbors.

Mid-month, we’re turning up the heat in the kitchen with Cooking & Cocktails on September 17 & 18 at the Culinary Center. This time, we’re highlighting the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, featuring Chicken Tinga Tacos, elote, fresh guacamole, and cocktail pairings that bring it all together.

Finally, we’ll celebrate our last Nine and Dine Golf Series of the season on September 29—an evening of friendly golf, live music, and delicious food from a local truck.

October brings cooler breezes (hopefully) and even more reasons to gather. Join us for Daytime Bingo on October 20, a relaxed midday event with plenty of prizes and fun. Then, mark your calendar for October 23, when our Pumpkin Painting Party returns to The Venue. This spooktacular event is perfect for kids and adults alike. And don’t forget to keep an eye on the calendar for more Halloween-inspired events and seasonal activities to help you celebrate in style!

With such a full lineup of events, September and October promise to be two unforgettable months. From hands-on activities to fun-filled evenings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I look forward to seeing you there and making the most of the fall season—together!

Kenyon Kyle

YOUR GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT

Kenyon Kyle was raised in the farm country of Ohio and is a proud graduate of Ohio State University. He and his wife, Beth, have been married for 33 years. They have four grown children—two sons and two daughters—and are grandparents to two grandsons, with twins (a boy and a girl) due in September. In his free time, he enjoys traveling with his wife and spending time with his growing family!

Kenyon has spent most of his career managing golf courses in Southwest Florida. He began at Bonita Bay Club in 1990, when the club had just one course. Over the years, he played a key role in the construction and growth of additional courses, eventually becoming Superintendent of 54 holes. As Bonita Bay expanded, Kenyon continued to support the development of new properties, helping the club grow to 14 courses.

For the past 10 years, Kenyon has worked with Troon, where he continues to bring his expertise and passion for the game to golf course operation!

Member Committees

We would like to extend our thanks to all our committee volunteers for their time, energy, and dedication. We truly appreciate your willingness to serve and help shape the future of our community!

ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

AzarioARCommittee@gmail.com

» George Mitchell - Chair

» Robert Giunta – Co-Chair

» TBD– Secretary

FINANCE COMMITTEE

AzarioFinance@gmail.com

» Michael Bohn- Chair

» Steve Barr- Co-Chair

» Jack McGourty - Secretary

» Cliff Feldman

» Donna Liska

» Irvin Hirschhorn

» Jeff Sowers

» Roger Insley

» Tim Neville

FINING & HEARING

AzarioHearing@gmail.com

» Mike Katzenstein - Chair

» Gregory Eck – Co-Chair

» Tracy Wofford – Secretary

GOLF COMMITTEE

AzarioGolfCommitte@gmail.com

» Tom Vandehey – Chair

» Karen Helber – Co-Chair

» Rick Powell – Secretary

» Ben Hecht

» Janet Brower

» Jim DeJoy

» John Coliton

» Robert Snyder

» Roy Fitzgerald

» Susan Jebson

» Tracy Wofford

LANDSCAPE COMMITTEE

AzarioLandscape@gmail.com

» John Giacometti - Chair

» Ken Frazier - Co-Chair

» Linda Channell - Secretary

» Gus Boesl

» Julie Aranibar

» Richard Helber

» Robin Botnick

SEPTEMBER 2 7 , 2 02 5

Experience the sweet life at La Dolce Vita Nights!

Savor wine tastings, indulge in a gelato bar, and enjoy Italianinspired bites. With live dueling pianos, jazz, and folk music, this evening will transport you straight to Italy!

7 P . M.

C ULINARY CEN T ER

Furry Friends

Meet Leo & Frank

LOVED BY LEAH TORNABENE

Meet Leo and Frank, our lovable mini Goldendoodles! Leo, the red one, is 6 years old, and Frank, the apricot-colored pup, is 2. Though they’re the same breed, these two couldn’t be more different in personality.

Leo is a total sweetheart—a gentle giant who lives for cuddles and is always on his best behavior. If there’s a treat nearby, he’ll happily perform any trick to earn it. He’s calm, affectionate, and the ultimate good boy.

Frank, on the other hand, is our silly, curious explorer. He loves investigating everything, playing with toys, and doing hilarious things around the house—like randomly army crawling from one side of the room to the other. If he’s bored, he’ll let you know with a playful smack! Frank adores being outside and would live there full-time if he could.

Every day, Leo and Frank enjoy their visits to the Bark Park for a game of fetch, followed by a walk around the neighborhood. They recently moved from Ohio and are already loving life at Esplanade at Azario. Now, they’re just counting down the days until their pool is finished—because swimming is one of their favorite things!

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.

Watch a Bat Ballet

Did you know bats make great neighbors? Bats are the only flying mammal in the world—and they’re fantastic neighbors! These nighttime flyers can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in an hour and often swoop through backyards, over ponds, or near streetlights at dusk. With more than 40 bat species in the U.S., you might spot a few outside your doorstep. Want to help local wildlife like these pollinators thrive? Try adding a bat house to your yard! For wildlife and bat watching tips, visit thegreenhour.org/activity/watch-a-bat-ballet. The photo is a native species of bat called the lesser long-nosed bat. Photo credit: Sandra Rothenberg.

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. From Kapalua, to Gamble Sands and Troon North, 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

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

FOOD

TWO CHEFS ON HILLVIEW

Specialty Food Shop | 10% Off $40+ 941-210-3535 twochefsonhillview.com

SPORTING GOODS

VANHUNKS BOARDING

10% off a full price board or boat. Tyrone: 941-218-9095 vanhunksboarding.com

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 BANKS LUXURY SUV TRANSPORTATION

Preferred pricing for local transport. 770-883-4641 | banks13@aol.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

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

Transportation for Pets - 20% discount 941-465-3717

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

Recent Events

Tampa Bay Rays

GAME

It was an incredible night out at Steinbrenner Field, where Members gathered to watch the Tampa Bay Rays take on the Baltimore Orioles from some of the best seats in the house—right behind home plate! The round-trip transportation from Azario made the evening smooth and stress-free. It was a great summer outing!

“Appy” Hour POTLUCK

Members enjoyed a fun and flavorful potluck evening! From delicious appetizers and tapas to creative cocktails and mocktails, the variety and energy were amazing. Everyone came together to share bites, drinks, and great company.

Fourth of July

BASH

Our Members truly made this year’s 4th of July celebration something special! From lounging poolside and dancing to the live DJ’s beats, to savoring Chef Humberto’s delicious buffet, everyone embraced the festive spirit with joy and enthusiasm.

Vino and Van Gogh

EVENT

Members had a fantastic time at the Vino & Van Gogh painting event! Members sipped wine and let their creativity shine during a fun, stepby-step painting session. Whether experienced or picking up a brush for the first time, everyone created their own version of the featured artwork and enjoyed a relaxed, social evening!

Spa Specials

SEPTEMBER

Hydrafacial Extravaganza: Value of $45

A Month of Glow, Hydration and Radiant Skin

Get ready for your ultimate post summer skin revival. Recover from sun exposure, dryness and refresh for fall with our Hydrafacial treatment package. Book our Hydrafacial Deluxe and receive your choice of a Lip or Eye Perk treatment to complete your look.

OCTOBER

No Tricks, Just Treatments

Experience wickedly good deals to help you look and feel your best!

Monster Mash Massage | 50 minutes | $99

Say BOO to what’s troubling you with our relaxing massage techniques, including warm stones and Deep Relief balm.

Mummies & Deadies | 50 minutes | $199

Hide from the little monsters in your life with our couple’s retreat. The frightfully relaxing side-by-side massage will leave you screaming for more time away. Followed by a complimentary bottle of bubbly to enjoy in our meditation lounge.

Boo-tiful Hand and Feet | $99

Experience boo-tiful hands and feet with our expert nail technicians, including Spooky Nail Art and bubbly.

Wax your Werewolf

Shed your coat with 20% off all waxing services. Waxing services are booked with facials, not as a stand-alone service.

Drop Dead Gorgeous Facial | $99

Even the most frightful skin will GLOW! This classic facial will leave you feeling alive again! Everyone will leave with a special treat!

Make your special reservation by calling the Wellness Center at 941253-2900. Treatment specials must be booked and experienced by October 31, 2025. Gratuities are not included.

SAVE THE DATE

Friday, October 31

3rd Annual Masks & Mimosas Skin Care Event!

Recent Events

SOCIAL Summer

The sunshine season was kicked off with a cool and colorful treat— on us! Pelican’s Snoballs joined us at the venue, where we enjoyed a laid-back afternoon filled with sweet treats and classic lawn games. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the first day of summer!

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.

MARINE ANIMAL RESCUE & REHABILITATION SEMINAR

Tuesday, September 2 | 6 - 7 p.m.

The Venue

Mote rescues, rehabilitates and releases sea turtles and marine mammals who have been struck by boats, entangled in fishing line, poisoned by red tide and more. This seminar will educate you on how all this is done and how you can help.

HOWL-O-WEEN PET PARADE

Monday, October 27 | 6 - 7 p.m.

Bark Park

Calling all four-legged ghouls and goblins! Put your pet in their Halloween best and strut your stuff! We’ll kick things off at the Sales Gallery and march our way to the Bark Park. Let your pups mingle, romp around, and show off their spooky (or silly!) style. Prizes will be handed out for the Funniest, Scariest, and Most Creative costumes!

Monthly Member Meetings

ESPLANADE 101

Tuesdays, September 9 & October 14

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!

SUMMER NINE-AND-DINE SERIES

Monday, September 29 | 5 p.m.

Pro Shoppe

Get ready for an evening of golf, music, and delicious food! You’ll play in mixed foursomes, enjoying a lively nine-hole scramble, and afterward, enjoy a refreshing beer or wine. After your game, unwind with live music and treat yourself to dinner from the food truck that will be there. If golf isn’t your game, no worries, you’re still welcome.

NO TRICKS, JUST TRIVIA

Tuesday, October 21 | 6 p.m.

The Venue

Think you’ve got what it takes to outsmart the witches? Join us for a ghoulishly fun evening of Halloween-themed trivia where your brains will be tested. Costumes encouraged, prizes awarded!

PUMPKIN PAINTING

Thursday, October 23 | 6 p.m.

The Venue

Bring your creativity and let’s kick off the Halloween season in style! Stop by for a spooktacular pumpkin-decorating event, perfect for kids of all ages! We’ll provide everything you need to create your very own scary or silly pumpkin masterpiece. From paints and brushes to fun decorations, we’ve got it all covered. Please note that the pumpkins we’ll be providing are small. If you’d like to paint a larger one, feel free to bring your own!

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Thursdays, September 18 & October 16

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, September 25 & October 30

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.

Upcoming Court Events

READY, SET, PLAY – BEGINNER PICKLEBALL PACKAGE

September & October

Pickleball Courts 7 & 8

Be prepared to catch the pickleball bug! After just 4 sessions interspersed with point play, you will gain knowledge, confidence, and a bunch of new friends. This package includes the rental of a paddle for the duration of the program. But that’s not all! You will also receive a voucher for a $50 credit on your future paddle purchase.

DOUBLES 107 CLINIC

September & October

This isn’t just another drill session - it’s tennis like you’ve never played! Say hello to 107, an addicting new game that is fast paced and filled with competitive energy. In this exciting clinic, teams race to 107 points, with every rally offering the chance to earn large point bonuses for clean winners, volleys, and overheads. Learn how to construct points under pressure, develop an attacking mindset, and sharpen your team chemistry in this thrilling new format.

15 MINUTE FIX

September

Want to sharpen your serve, fine-tune your footwork, or finally master that tricky backhand? Now’s your chance! Exclusively for Members, we are excited to offer complimentary 15-minute private sessions with your courts manager, Charlie. Whether you play tennis or pickleball, this is your opportunity to get 1 on 1 expert guidance and experience just how impactful private instruction can be.

Murder Mystery

NIGHT

Saturday, October 18

6 p.m. | The Venue

Step into a world of intrigue and deception, where everyone’s a suspect and no one is safe—until the mystery is solved. Throughout the night, Members will uncover hidden clues, interrogate your fellow Members, and race to solve the crime before the killer strikes again. Trust no one, suspect everyone, and keep your wits sharp—it’s going to be a night full of chilling twists and unexpected turns! Come dressed for mystery and mayhem, and prepare to fully immerse yourself in the role. Whether you’re the cunning detective or the unsuspecting villain, your part in the story is vital.

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.

Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Any Member wishing to develop one should contact the Lifestyle team to receive information and an application. They will assist in coordinating when and where is available for your club or interest group to meet at the Resort Amenity. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining. For more information about creating a club or interest group, please contact your Lifestyle team.

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 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

Third 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

Third 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

MAHJONG CLUB

Tuesday at 1 p.m. | Thursday at 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

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

TOGETHER WE CAN GROUP

Patti Barr: togetherwecanazario@gmail.com

TRAVEL CLUB

Harsha Reddy: harshareddy798@gmail.com

Saturday, October 11

8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Pickleball Courts

100% of the tournament fee collected per Member will benefit a local charity, My Breast Friend 941.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, register with your doubles partner and take part in competitive play on the courts with Members of neighboring Esplanade communities, and light refreshments!

This 4-hour tournament will consist of a timed round-robin event for Men’s and Women’s doubles, and mixed doubles play. After the tournament, the top three doubles teams from each event will be recognized at a special awards ceremony.

Both men and women are encouraged to come dressed in their best pink pickleball attire, as we participate in a shared effort to raise money and end breast cancer. Spectators are also encouraged to wear pink and cheer on their home teams!

Registration: Tickets are $50 per Member. Players and spectators must register. Members should register online through our website. We hope to see you there!

Horse Soldier Whiskey & War Stories

We recently hosted a powerful and unforgettable evening with Whiskey & War Stories, where veterans, their families, and friends came together to share their love of bourbon and reflect on the strength, sacrifice, and camaraderie of military service.

The highlight of the night was guest speaker Retired LTC Rob Schaefer, founding partner of American Freedom Distillery and one of the original 12 “Horse Soldiers” who deployed to Afghanistan following 9/11. His inspiring account of the mission of ODA 595, the first U.S. team to enter Afghanistan, offered Members a rare and moving glimpse into a defining moment in American military history.

The evening began with a signature cocktail and shared charcuterie, followed by a guided tasting of all three Horse Soldier Bourbon expressions—Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch, and Barrel Proof—each paired with a small bite sandwich. As a special memento, every Member received a bottle of Horse Soldier Bourbon, personally signed by LTC Schaefer. It was a night filled with connection and deep appreciation for those who serve—and a reminder of the incredible stories that live behind every bottle.

Around Town

SARASOTA OPERA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Saturday, September 27 | 1 - 4 p.m. Sarasota Opera www.sarasotaopera.org

Sarasota Opera’s Food & Wine Festival is a festive community event featuring a variety of eateries with tasty food samples and wine tastings! What better way to support our nationally recognized Sarasota Youth Opera.

AMERICAN VINTAGE MARKETS

October 10 & 11 | 1 - 4 p.m.

Robarts Area, Sarasota Fairgrounds www.americanvintagemarkets.com

You won’t want to miss this exciting and fun shopping extravaganza. Expect to find vintage delights from our carefully curated vendors who are passionate pickers, makers, collectors, creators, and artisans. At these markets, you’ll find unique gifts, vintage-inspired home decor, antiques, up-cycled goods, collectibles, jewelry, and more!

Cooking & Cocktails Series South of the Border

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 & THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

5:30 - 7:30 P.M. | CULINARY CENTER | $25

Join us for the 3rd Cooking and Cocktails Series of 2025 and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine! In this exciting demonstration, we’ll teach you how to prepare Classic Chicken Tinga Tacos from Puebla, perfectly paired with traditional sides like Elote, homemade guacamole, and fresh salsa.

You’ll also explore the world of Mezcal and Tequila, learning about their unique characteristics while enjoying a smoky and spicy margarita to complement the experience. During this demonstration, you will enjoy samples of the featured items and volunteers may be requested.

All attendees are encouraged to bring their own beverages to enjoy. Please visit the event calendar on your community website to register. Don’t miss out!

Living Well & Learning Event

A WELLNESS EVENT TO NOURISH MIND, BODY & PALATE

Saturday, September 27 | 1 p.m. The Venue | Members: $15 | Guests :$20

Join Donna Gannon and the Lifestyle team for an unforgettable experience where mindfulness meets nutrition. Begin your journey with a calming, guided meditation session designed to center your mind, body, and spirit. Breathe deeply, release tension, and embrace the shift into the new season.

Enjoy learning about:

» The benefits of eating seasonally

» Superfoods to support energy and immunity

» Smart snacks for busy lifestyles and meal prep tips for the new season.

Whether you’re looking to relax, connect, or learn something new, this is your invitation to slow down and savor the moment.

Limited spots available. Reserve your place in this soul-soothing sensory experience today!