TARA DIRECTORY
MAIN CLUB HOUSE PHONE NUMBER: 941.756.7775
EXTENSIONS:
GENERAL MANAGER: 1222 | DAVID TAYLOR
ADMINISTRATION: 1229 | JILL OROLOGIO
ARC (ARCH. REVIEW): 1221 | CHRISTINE KANAYAMA
F&B | EVENTS: 1230 | MORGAN BUECHNER
MEMBER BILLING : 1223 | BRASHELLA KEYS
GOLF SHOP: 1231 | MARLENE, RICK & MICHAEL
GOLF PROFESSIONAL: 1226 | MELISSA WILLIAMS
FIRST ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL: 1241 | NATE WEBER
RESTAURANT & RESERVATIONS: 1235 & 1242 | ERIC, JOANNA & ALAINA
SNACK BAR: 1227 | NANCY & STEPHANIE
TARA COMMUNITY NEWS
MESSAGE FROM
PHILLIP PARSH, PRESIDENT
Tara Board of Directors
What an exciting time to be part of the Tara community. In the February 10th Members Meeting the initiative to remodel and update our clubhouse was approved by the Tara owners with a vote of 299 to138. Thanks to the entire house committee for developing a plan that most of our owners agreed with. Your Board of Directors, in collaboration with our General Manager and the House Committee, will ensure that this project stays on budget and will make our clubhouse something we can all be proud of.
The 2024/2025 Board and Committee season is winding down and I would like to encourage our Owners to volunteer for one of our nine standing committees. The committees are a very important part of the decision-making process, and the Board relies on recommendations from the committees. If you would like to volunteer, you can sign up in the Tara office. I would like to thank everyone for volunteering.
I would like to thank everyone for their continued support.
TARA’S MISSION: The mission of Tara Golf & Country Club is to provide an exceptional private country club experience while maintaining the club’s reputation as a financially sound and highly valued community where Members enjoy outstanding golf, vibrant amenities and social camaraderie.
TARA COMMUNITY NEWS
MESSAGE FROM DAVID TAYLOR, GENERAL MANAGER dtaylor@taragcc.com
Dear Members,
Spring has arrived at Tara Golf & Country Club, and we couldn’t be more excited for the wonderful season ahead! March is one of our busiest months of the year, and we are thrilled to see so many of you enjoying everything the club has to offer. Whether you’re hitting the greens, dining with friends, or attending one of our social events, we’re grateful to have such a fantastic community.
As we look forward to the month ahead, we have several exciting events and updates to share:
First, don’t forget to mark your calendars for our St. Patrick’s Day Party on March 17! Join us for a day filled with festive music, traditional Irish fare, and plenty of fun. Be sure to wear your best green attire and make your reservations early.
Spring Break is just around the corner, and we’re ready to welcome families and friends looking for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re planning a golf outing, some poolside relaxation, or a delightful meal at the club, we have something for everyone.
On the dining front, we are thrilled with the response to our recent additions! Half-Price Burger Day and $1 Wings has been a huge hit, and we love seeing so many of you enjoying your favorite burgers. Our expanded hours on Mondays and Tuesdays have been well received, and we’re excited to offer a new Lite Bites menu on Sundays , which pairs beautifully with our traditional Sunday Brunch Buffet .
We’re also excited to share news about our upcoming clubhouse renovation . This is a significant project that will enhance our facilities and elevate the member experience. We will be hosting focus groups in the coming weeks to gather your input and will share a detailed project timeline soon. Stay tuned for more updates!
Additionally, we are lucky to have so many talented Members among us, and we’d love to see that talent put to use in one of our committees . If you have a passion for golf, event planning, or helping our community grow, we encourage you to sign up. Committee volunteer registration is available in the main office.
Thank you for being a part of what makes Tara Golf & Country Club so special. We look forward to seeing you at the club throughout this wonderful season.
Respectfully,
David Taylor
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS: John and Cynthia Ekas – Golf 5511 Fair Oaks Street
TARA GOLF HAPPENINGS
MESSAGE FROM MISSY WILLIAMS, HEAD GOLF PRO 941.758.7961 x1226 | mwilliams@taragcc.com
EXCITING NEWS!
The golf shop is buzzing with new vendors and a fresh array of products. We hope you enjoy the new look and take some time to visit us and use your sweeps!
To celebrate, we’re hosting a March Madness sale throughout the entire month of March on in-stock merchandise. For those who participated in “Trade-In Days,” you now have sweeps to spend on new and exciting clubs or golf apparel.
DEMO DAYS COMING UP:
• March 6th – Mizuno
• March 27th – Cobra
• March 28th – Callaway
The time will be changing soon, which means it will be lighter later for more opportunities to play golf. Remember, we offer a twilight rate that starts at 4:00 PM each day when golf is available. Be sure to make your tee times after 4:00 PM to enjoy a round of golf in pleasant weather.
Missy Williams
TARA COURSE HAPPENINGS
MESSAGE FROM DON ABELL, COURSE SUPERINTENDENT 941.751.5593 | dabell@taragcc.com
WEED CONTROL ON THE GOLF COURSE
One of the key elements in providing superior conditions is a very good weed control program. Weed control is one of the most time consuming jobs we perform. On a daily basis we have one or two employees spot spraying weeds with post-emergent herbicides at the proper labeled rate. For weeds to be controlled or eradicated with post-emergent products, they must be visible and actively growing.
Not only do we treat weeds after they have emerged, we treat them before they have a chance to germinate. This is performed by applying a preemergent to turf areas three times a year. Because weeds come from seed in the soil it becomes a challenge to control the weed population with just spot spraying. The pre-emergent creates a barrier at the top of the soil layer not allowing the weed seed to properly germinate stopping the weed from emerging. Pre-emergents only control weeds that have not emerged, which is why timing is very important to control certain weeds at different times of the year. Typically, January, May and September is when the preemergent will be applied.
We generally try to time our wall to wall fertilizer applications and preemergent applications together. Because of today’s technology we are able to coat the fertilizer granules with the pre-emergent of choice and apply both products at the same time. By combining these applications we save time and money to allow our staff to concentrate on all other key elements to providing quality conditions.
Don Abell
TARA FOOD & BEVERAGE NEWS
MESSAGE FROM MORGAN BUECHNER, F&B MANAGER
941.758.7775 x1230 | mbuechner@taragcc.com
Get ready for an exciting month filled with fantastic events at Tara Golf & Country Club!
Join us for a Grease-themed music bingo night on March 8th. Dust off your leather jackets and poodle skirts as we celebrate the legendary hits from the beloved film. It promises to be an unforgettable evening—grab your friends and get ready to sing along while playing bingo!
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us on March 14 during our festive happy hour! Enjoy a variety of themed beverages alongside our traditional Irish buffet.
On March 20, treat yourself to a mouth-watering Prime Rib dinner that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Don’t miss our bi-weekly specials! Enjoy $7 Burger Wednesdays all day long and Wing Mondays from 11 AM to 6 PM.
We’re excited to announce a special performance by Ken Sparks featuring one of our talented members! Join us for this night of laughter and entertainment on Sunday, March 23.
MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS!
Be sure to reserve your spot for these incredible events! Reservations can be made online or by calling us at 941-756-7775 Ext 1242.
Thank you for your ongoing support. Don’t forget that our Grab and Go service is available via our mobile app or online during regular lunch and dinner hours, providing you with convenient meal options right at your fingertips!
We can’t wait to see you at these upcoming events. Let’s make this month one to remember!
Morgan Beuchner
TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1242
24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.
TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1242
24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.
TUESDAY, MARCH 11 5 - 8PM
TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1242
24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.
TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1242
24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.
TUESDAY, MARCH 25 5 - 8PM
TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1242
24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.
TARA ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
TO MAKE RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL: 941.756.7775 x 1242
24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid automatic billing to account for special events.
TARA MASTER COMMUNICATION
MESSAGE FROM KIM LOSKOTA, PRESIDENT
Dear Tara Residents,
March brings our Annual Members Meeting, scheduled for March 21st at 9:00am at the TGCC in the Bonnie/Bleu conference room, providing a platform for homeowners to attend and discuss their neighborhood issues, such as the FPL project and proposed apartment complex.
The meeting will also finalize the election for two TMA board openings. As current president, I applied for a board position, along with Denise Smark, current board director. No other homeowners applied to run for the open positions, so Denise and I will automatically be confirmed as board members. This situation highlights the need for greater homeowner involvement in our Tara community. I encourage you to consider joining a committee or running for the TMA board in future elections.
The TMA needs your email address! If homeowners have not yet logged into the Condominium Associates portal https://condo.cincwebaxis.com please do so. It’s recommended that you add your email address to ensure you receive the most updated information from the TMA.
Please join us at the March meeting to keep up to date with TMA activities.
Sincerely,
Kim Loskota
President Tara Master Association
TARA MASTER COMMUNICATION
MESSAGE FROM DEB MAZZAFERRO, TMA DIRECTOR
We are pausing the landscape workshops while we reevaluate how to make them more well attended. Feedback is welcome; contact me at TMA. Director2@gmail.com
SOME THINGS I LEARNED AT THESE EVENTS:
• The county will come to your house or HOA and perform a FREE evaluation of irrigation systems. Call (941) 722-4524
• Hundreds of Native Florida bees are solo nesters; they burrow in trees and lay eggs, not in hives. These little guys often sit on our golf balls during a round. Have you noticed them? They love flowering groundcovers that we think of as weeds, like the stuff that grows in your lawn that have little flowers. So don’t attempt to spray them out of existence. They are good for the pollinators.
• Honeybees are not native to Florida, or even the US. They are European immigrants! (Like most of us.)
• FPL requires all trees near powerlines to have a maximum height of 15 feet. This is why you see tall oaks with weird haircuts. I have a list of trees that max out at 15’. Contact me TMA.Director2@gmail.com
• Monarch butterflies are not native to Florida. There are many butterflies that are. I’ve started noticing them. Keep your eyes open.
• Most milkweed sold in big box stores is not indigenous to Florida. Ask for the indigenous versions at locally owned nurseries. Are the plants you choose safe for Pollinators? https://xerces.org/
• Ponds should have an edge around them that is not mowed. Plants along the edge create a filter that keeps the water run-off from polluting the ponds and harming wildlife. It might even stop your golf ball from drowning!
• Send a picture and question about plants and pests to ManateeMG@ gmail.com Your tax dollars at work for you.
From the TMA Landscape Chair, Karen Cardoza
The TMA Landscape Committee has been working diligently to identify & select a new landscape vendor. This vendor will maintain our entrance & exit from State Road 70 and along Tara Blvd to Tara Preserve Lane, as well as a few other areas that the TMA is responsible for. The new vendor will begin service in early April. Please be patient as it’ll take them some time to come up to speed, but I’m confident that you’ll notice some positive changes over time.
Soon you’ll see some improvements being made to the light poles in our medians along Tara Blvd - the poles will be painted, and new LED fixtures will be installed. At our Tara entrance we recently replaced our American flag with a larger one and are investigating options for improvements to the flagpole lighting.
Finally, we are working with all affected parties to address the TGCC monument wall on the west end of Drewrys Bluff and Braden River Road that was recently damaged. We ask for your patience as this repair will take some time to complete.
Deb Mazzaferro
TMA Director
Tara Master Association Landscape Committee
The Tara Master Association (TMA) Landscape Committee has offered monthly workshops to educate the Tara community about Florida gardening principles, including native Florida plants and the Tara protocols for specific neighborhoods. At each meeting we have leveraged experts from the county, state, and local organizations to save you money and ensure your gardening success.
FITNESS & RECREATION COMMITTEE NEWS
LIST OF ALL ACTIVITIES AT TARA
EUCHRE – 1st and 3rd Tuesday of Each Month | 6:30pm
Contact Rosmarie Buxbaum: rosmarieb@rogers.com
MEXICAN TRAIN (DOMINOES)
1st Wednesday of Each Month | 6:15pm
Contact Rosmarie Buxbaum: rosmarieb@rogers.com
BRIDGE – 1st and 3rd Wednesday of Each Month at 6pm
Contact Karen Clark: kcnurse@comcast.net
MAHJONG – Saturdays 9am, Mondays 12:30pm – Beau Room
SAMBA – Wednesdays | 12:30pm – Bonnie Room
BOCCE LEAGUE SUBSTITUTE LIST
Anyone wanting to be added to the Substitute List
Contact Rosmarie Buxbaum: rosmarieb@rogers.com
YOGA CLASSES – Fitness Center
Chair Yoga | Wednesday 10:30am | Contact: mcrawford7@verizon.net
Yin Restorative Yoga | Wednesday 1:30pm | Contact: mcrawford7@verizon.net
Deep Stretch | Monday 6pm | Contact Amber Thielen: ambermthielen@gmail.com
Level 1 Yoga | Tuesday 3pm | Contact Susan H: sassyoga8@gmail.com
Yin Yang Yoga | Friday 9:30am | Contact Susan H: sassyoga8@gmail.com
LINE DANCING – Fitness Center - Sunday | 1pm
Contact Donna Breeden: breedend2002@yahoo.com
DANCE FITNESS – Fitness Center - Monday | 9am
Contact Barb Hyttel: bhyttel@att.net or 262 880 2777
WATER AEROBICS – Monday, Wednesday and Friday | 10am | Clubhouse Pool
WATER VOLLEYBALL - Tuesday and Thursday | 11am | Clubhouse Pool
BOOK CLUB - Every 2nd Friday | 9:30am at the Tara Clubhouse in the Bonnie Room
CRAFT GROUP - Saturday | 10am in the Golf Shop Conference Room
BOWLING LEAGUE - Tuesdays
TARA BOWLING NEWS
MESSAGE FROM PAM STEVENSON
pamste1@msn.com
TARA TUESDAY BOWLING LEAGUE
Feb 14th - April 15th 2025 Tuesdays 6pm
We now have 10 teams! That’s 40+ players! It’s so much fun! And we have so much style! Just look at the pictures of these bowlers What are they aiming for - a STRIKE!!!
And boy, do we have style in how we dress! Look at Brian and Emily from the Splits and Giggles team! Now that’s style!
We also have 5 players in our newly formed 200+ club! Isn’t that fantastic! Art, Howard, Randy, Kerri, and Mark, CONGRATULATIONS to you all! You are the only ones of us to score over 200 in one game - BRILLIANT! Who will be the next one, I wonder?
The rest of us are over the moon if we make it to the 100+ club!
We are always in need of subs so come join us. Have a go!
Pam Stevenson Chair, Fitness and Recreation Committee
BRIDGE AT TARA
ATTENTION ALL TARA BRIDGE PLAYERS!
The Mixed Duplicate Bridge Group is open to all Tara and Tara Preserve men and women who like to play bridge. This is a casual group and is NOT sanctioned by ACBL.
• When: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month from 6:00 pm to 8:45 pm.
• Where: Beau Room
• Cost: $1 per person for prize money
• How to sign up: Email Karen Clark at kcnurse@comcast.net (if you do not have email access call at 941-744-7008)
• Everyone will sign up as an individual. You will choose your own partner when you sign in to play.
Karen Clark DANCE AEROBICS AT TARA
Come join us for an hour of low impact, high intensity, choreographed aerobics and strength training routines to some of the latest and best diverse music.
Put on your most supportive shoes, grab some water and join us for some fun and dance.
Barb Hytell
DEEP STRETCH
TARA EUCHRE PLAYERS
FITNESS AT HOME
MEXICAN TRAIN (DOMINOES) AT TARA
MESSAGE FROM ROSMARIE BUXBAUM
ALL ABOARD!
Mexican Train is a fun dominoes game for everyone! If you would enjoy a fun, social, no cost evening this is for you. If you are new to Tara it’s a great way to meet new people and make friends! Singles, couples, all welcome.
Mexican Train is run the first Wednesday evening of every month (except July) at the Tara Clubhouse. It is a type of a Dominoes game. There are many versions of Mexican Train. You do not need to know how to play. Our Table Captains will help guide you through the rules that we play by.
If you are interested in attending, please email Rosmarie Buxbaum at: rosmarieb@rogers.com and you will be added to the Mexican Train email list for future game nights.
Mexican Train Future Dates:
Wednesday, March 5 | 5:30-9pm | With Buffet Dinner Wednesday, April 9 | 6:15-8:30pm Wednesday, May 7 | 6:15-8:30pm
If you have any questions, please contact Rosmarie Buxbaum at: rosmarieb@rogers.com
Rosmarie Buxbaum
PICKLEBALL AT TARA
MESSAGE FROM PAM STEVENSON
THE TERRACES ROUND ROBIN TOURNAMENT
Everyone plays with and against everyone else It will take place over several days the week of March 24th
Time - 8am onwards - our usual time!
THIS IS JUST FOR FUN! REMEMBER!
WE ARE NOT PLAYING FOR THE TOWN HALL CLOCK!
We don’t have one, so we can’t! You might win a pickle or two though!
OUR NEW RACQUET CENTER AT THE CORNER OF STONE RIVER AND TARA BLVD
The ground has been cleared of trees, levelled and marked out. Soon to be - 5 brand new courts to play on! We can’t wait! It’s taking shape! It’s so exciting!
More opportunities for more people to play Clinics! Lessons! Tournaments! We are so looking forward to it!
Hope you’ll join us for the fun when it’s finished!
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Pam Stevenson at: pamste1@msn.com.
Pam Stevenson
YOGA AT TARA
MESSAGE FROM SUSAN HOLZBORN
SUSAN HOLZBORN, 500RYT
Certified through Heartwood Yoga Institute, Susan Holzborn brings over 7 years of teaching experience, including 2 years at Tara. Her classes blend mindfulness, movement, and breath, offering a welcoming space for students of all levels to grow and thrive. She currently offers two classes:
LEVEL 1 YOGA – TUESDAYS AT 3 PM
Discover the power of being present in both body and mind with this beginner-friendly yoga class.
Through gentle poses and guided movements, you’ll improve flexibility, strengthen your body, and develop mindfulness.
Perfect for those new to yoga or looking for a slower-paced practice. No experience needed!
SUBTLE YOGA – FRIDAYS AT 9:30 AM
This gentle and mindful practice focuses on slow, deliberate movements and poses to enhance body awareness, flexibility, and inner calm.
Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, introspective yoga experience, it’s accessible to all levels and emphasizes connecting breath with motion.
CLASS FEE: $10 PER SESSION
WHAT TO BRING:
A mat, water, a pillowcase for the bolster, and your beautiful energy!
IMPORTANT:
Signing up in advance is essential to ensure your spot and confirm that classes will be held.
To sign up or ask any questions, please contact me: sassyoga8@gmail.com.
I can’t wait to practice with you!
Susan Holzborn
YOGA AT TARA
YOGA AT TARA
SOCIAL COMMITTEE
Tara Members had a great time in February enjoying two nights of The Britins, a High Tea, special Valentine’s dinner and rounded out the month with a Mardi Gras Happy Hour! Phew...
Per prior AED informational seminar participants, Laurie Cagle coordinated a more in-depth AED/CPR seminar. This information could save a life. Thanks Laurie!
March 8 will be Grease the movie BINGO hosted by Andy Geremia. Prizes for best dressed lady and man will be given out along with prizes to the BINGO winners! Make your reservations asap!!
March 14 will be the annual St. Patty’s Day buffet with all the traditional food and Celebrations 24 DJ. Come dressed in green so you don’t get pinched and be ready to have fun with Tara’s favorite Funky Monkey.
Karaoke Happy Hour will be April 4 so watch your email for reservations and make sure practice your favorite song!!
The Social committee would like to thank all the staff for executing the events we plan and making everything run without a hitch (with or without power!) and so much fun. You are the best!
I would like to encourage anyone thinking of joining a committee to apply as soon as applications are available. It is a great way to get involved and meet new friends.
Thanks for making Tara a great place to be! It really is a slice of Taradice!!
Cheers,
Emily Acklin
DID YOU KNOW? FROM THE COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Did you know that Tara has a Hole-n-One Club? Don’t lose out on a pocket full of SWEEPS for golf shop purchases!
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS AND HOW TO JOIN:
Contact Jill at jorologio@taragcc.com or see her in the Administration Office to let her know you want to join in on the fun! That’s all it takes and you’re now a member of the club.
HERE HOW IT WORKS:
1. Each time a Member of the club gets a Hole-n-One he or she is declared a WINNER and ALL Hole-n-One Club Members will be charged 4.50 to their Member account.
2. Members of this exclusive club then have one week from the day of publicly posting the winner’s name in the Grill Room to redeem a beverage of choice.
3. The number of club Members who do not redeem their beverage from the Grill Room within the designated week get tallied up.
4. We then multiply the $4.50 by the number of those who did NOT indulge in a beverage from the Grill Room.
5. That cash balance is then awarded to the WINNER’S ACCOUNT in forms of SWEEPS for purchases in the golf shop.
Winnings have been anywhere between $400- $850+ in SWEEPS (not redeemable for cash).
Don’t Miss Out – Join Now!
Did you know that Tara now has its’ own tap beer that you can enjoy at the club called “Scarlet”?
It’s an IPA brew that brings the vivid and spirited essence of Florida right to your glass. If you are a beer lover and you like the juicy flavor of Florida oranges, just imagine it paired with aromatic hops? It’s a truly Florida inspired beer that will remind you with every sip of what you love about living in the Sunshine State. Next time you’re at the club, indulge yourself with the refreshing crispness of Tara’s own beer “Scarlet”.
HOUSE COMMITTEE - FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS
Dear Tara Members,
On behalf of the Tara House Committee, we would like to convey our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support you have shown for the Clubhouse Refresh Project. The House Refresh subcommittee will continue to hold Member meetings to ensure that all Members are kept informed, their views are heard, and the Members are updated as we move forward on the project.
In addition, on February 11, the new front doors were installed to keep our promise of updating our clubhouse. Also, we encourage everyone to try the new menu and don’t forget our Wednesday $7 hamburgers. Please continue to make reservations as this assists the staff and kitchen to make sure you have a good Member experience.
Stay tuned for more email notifications on upcoming Member information meetings.
Tara House Committee
EVERY SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH 9:30AM IN THE BONNIE ROOM
AUGUST 9:
REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES by Shelby Van Pelt
SEPTEMBER 13: THE LOST BOOKSHOP by Evie Woods
OCTOBER 11:
SPARRING PARTNERS by John Grisham
NOVEMBER 8: THE WOMEN by Kristin Hannah
DECEMBER 13:
BAND OF SISTERS by Lauren Willig
JANUARY 10:
LEST SHE FORGET by Lisa Malice
TARA MARCH COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE
MEETINGS ARE HELD IN THE GOLF SHOP CONFERENCE ROOM*
*Unless otherwise noted - Calendar is subject to change
AD HOC VACANT LOT
March 3: 2PM
AD HOC CLUB REFRESH
TBD: 10:30AM
ARC
March 19: 3PM
COMMUNICATIONS
March 4: 3PM
EMERGENCY ACTION PLANNING
March 11: 1:30PM
FINANCE
March 20: 3PM
FITNESS & RECREATION
March 17: 3:30PM
GOLF
March 3: 9AM
GREENS
March 24: 9AM
HOUSE
March 5: 3PM
LONG RANGE PLANNING
March 3: 1PM
SOCIAL
March 19: 10AM
