LIFESTYLE
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
SERENA HORTON YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Happy New Year!
As we move into the refreshing months of January and February, our community is full of opportunities to stay active, enjoy the season, and connect with neighbors. From classes and activities to social gatherings with friends, there’s plenty to enjoy—and this is the perfect time of year to cozy up and get warm by the fire pit at the Resort Amenity Center.
Take time to enjoy a relaxing massage from Victoria Thomas, our skilled Massage Therapist, take part in a pickleball lesson with Head Sports Professional Zach Combs, or simply soak in the inviting atmosphere of Esplanade at Artisan Lakes.
Be sure to check out Esplanade Perks on the Esplanade website, where you can explore a variety of exclusive programs and services, including the following:
» SIP Wine Club – Designed for wine lovers of all levels, SIP Wine Club offers access to a diverse selection of wines, tastings, unique private-label selections, and Memberonly discounts. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned sommelier, it’s a simple way to discover new favorites.
» Esplanade Concierge – Offered through Esplanade
Resort Experiences, this program provides exclusive services for Members, including local expertise, pet care, arts and entertainment, home services, travel excursions, and more.
» Destinations by Esplanade – Curated travel experiences, from zip lining in Costa Rica to exploring Antarctica’s ice castles or local adventures organized by our Lifestyle team. Trips emphasize wellness, culinary delights, adventure, and culture, with personalized itineraries, concierge support, and Member perks like gift cards, Esplanadebranded gifts, and access to exclusive destinations.
» Shop Esplanade – ShopEsplanade.com features custom Esplanade apparel, golf and sporting equipment, household items, and more. Members enjoy exclusive discounts and a wide selection of products perfect for personal use or as memorable gifts.
Explore all these opportunities and more to make the most of life at Esplanade at Artisan Lakes this winter season!
Where were you born? Tampa, Florida.
What are your hobbies?
Katherine Delahanty
YOUR HOA ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Riding professional horse showmanship in Hunt Seat with my beautiful American Saddlebred, Anatolia, is one of my greatest joys. She’s a tall, sleek mare who thrives on calm and routine at the barn, with an even temperament, most of the time!
Anatolia constantly pushes me to strive for excellence, which keeps me active and focused. My two high-energy Portuguese Water Dogs, Maddison and Piper, add even more activity to my days. If I don’t take them on their regular walks, their enthusiasm quickly overflows!
What are you most thankful for?
I’m so grateful for the opportunities to live life surrounded by the animals, people, and nature I love. My husband, James, has been so giving and supportive, and providing a wonderful life filled with adventure, from our travels to our beautiful home. He inspires me every day to keep striving for all things possible.
Where is your favorite place that you have traveled to?
James and I lived in Switzerland for five years, and it was one of the most intriguing and enjoyable experiences of our lives. During that time, we had the opportunity to explore the surrounding countries— Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein (such a tiny gem of a country), and Austria. James’s career took us abroad through his former company, and while he traveled the world, I found my own path in Switzerland.
Learning to navigate daily life and picking up as much Swiss German as I could was both challenging and rewarding. I discovered a wonderful group of friends and a completely different way of life.
The Swiss truly value their personal lives, often placing them above work - a balance I think we could all learn from.
My best friend, Anna, was Russian, and we quickly realized how much we had in common. Another dear friend was a fellow horseman who welcomed me into the local equestrian community. He and his wife took me in as one of their own, and together we enjoyed river cruises, fine dining, and countless horse shows. Those years abroad will always hold a special place in my heart.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My son, Nicholas, has been one of my greatest blessings. Looking back, I realize I was quite a young mom, though at the time, it didn’t feel that way. I had always dreamed of having a child at 23, and that dream came true when Nicholas was born in Burbank, California, while I was living in Toluca Lake.
My husband, James, keeps life full of laughter with his quick wit and generous spirit. I’m so thankful for the wonderful life we share that is filled with travel, love, and the simple joys of everyday moments.
Having the opportunity to own a horse again later in life feels like a dream come true, bringing my life full circle and reconnecting me with a lifelong passion.
What is your favorite thing about Esplanade?
I feel so fortunate to have such a beautiful place to come to work each day. Working with Catherine Gangloff has been one of the greatest professional moments of my career; she is the best mentor and boss I’ve ever had. Catherine is kind, intelligent, and truly a joy to work with. I’m deeply thankful for the opportunity, not only to learn from her, but also to contribute by assisting the wonderful Members of this community.
Furry Friends
Meet Sasha
LOVED BY CHARLOTTE SPRINGER
What breed/type is your pet?
Sasha is a “BernaGoldendoodle” - her father was a Bernese Mountain dog and her mother was a Goldendoodle.
How old is your pet and when is her birthday?
She is eight years old and she will be nine years old on February 27.
Sibling names or is your pet an only child?
Sasha is the only “love child” in my household, but was one of 13 puppies in the litter at birth.
When you travel, does she travel with you?
Why of course! Sasha is a certified and trained service dog. She’s been on trains, planes, automobiles, and deep-sea fishing boats.
What is her favorite treat?
Everything under the sun, except for fruits.
What are a few amazing qualities about your furry best friend?
She walks with an invisible leash, she can whisper, and she identifies as a 50-pound human.
How long has your pet been a part of your family?
Sasha has been with me since she was eight weeks old.
Tell us a fun story involving your pet!
Sasha saw her cat friends dart past the lanai cage and forgot she was actually inside the lanai cage. She darted right through the screen
chasing them, and then had the nerve to walk around to the door like she didn’t put a big hole through the screen!
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.
Help Backyard Wildlife
Winter 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.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Let us handle the details while you enjoy the moments. To browse the full list of available Esplanade Concierge offerings, visit EsplanadePerks.com and use registration code esplanade2023 to access the Esplanade Member portal. Through the Esplanade Concierge program we are proud to offer you exclusive discounts and rates on everything from local restaurants and attractions, to movie tickets, car rentals, hotels and more! With thousands of local and national offers across 10,000 cities and easy mobile access, you’ll always find a reason to celebrate your savings.
DINING
AMERICAN HONEY CREAMERY
15% discount on the purchase of one item. Mention Esplanade at checkout. 4919 96th Street E, Palmetto 941-981-3830 americanhoneycreamery@gmail.com
WAYPOINT BAR & GRILL
Receive one free order of chips and salsa per visit! Mexican and seafood dishes with fresh ingredients. 11000 US-41, Palmetto, FL 34221 941-212-6600 waypoint27north@gmail.com
DRYER VENT CLEANING
FIREHOUSE DRYER
$85 Per Home contact@firehousedryer.com 941-676-3443 | firehousedryer.com
ANIMAL CARE
BAYSIDE PET RESORT, SARASOTA, OSPREY & LAKEWOOD RANCH
10% off Select Services baysidepetresort.com
TRANSPORTATION
RIDE WITH US | TIZIANA
$5 one-time discount for new clients. tverace74@gmail.com 727-902-4387
FINANCIAL SERVICES
EVERLASTING WEALTH STRATEGIES
Members receive a complimentary 20-minute consultation call. Elisa Rojas: 954-249-3032
HOME IMPROVEMENT
RAINKING WATER FILTRATION PLUS SOFTENING SYSTEM
Enjoy fresh, clean, filtered, soft water in your home. Receive $500 off with purchase of whole house system. Receive a FREE in home water test. 941-525-2786 | rowollet@aol.com rainkingsystems.com
HOME SWEET HOME PAINTING
10% off Home Painting Services using discount code, “SweetHome10” 941-465-8187 sweethomereno5@gmail.com
TRU HOME PROS
10% of any home organization product for Esplanade Members javier@truclosetpros.com truhomepros.com
ZINGA’S
Blinds, Shutters, Shades, Outdoor Screen Shades and Awnings 20% off minimum purchase of $2,500. Kathy Foddrill: 941-254-6514 kathyfoddrill@zingashome.com
OPIE’S QUALITY HOME SERVICES
10% off all Home Improvement Services. Instagram @OpiesQHS opiesqhc@gmail.com
KNOT YET KNOWN INC.
10% off all Services Instagram @KnotYetKnown knotyetknown@gmail.com
KINETIC KRAFTSMEN
10% off Outdoor Kitchens Services and Custom Carpentry Pieces trent@kinetickraftsmen.com
GOLF
TROON ACCESS
25% discount on a Troon Access
Membership by entering code ESPLANADE25 at checkout! troon.com/access
FITNESS, HEALTH & WELLNESS
IN HOME SENIOR FITNESS
Trainers have backgrounds in physical and occupational therapy with decades of experience. Mention Esplanade for 10% off. 813-802-8049 | 727-434-3085 inhomeseniorfitness.com
PURE BARRE PARRISH Use code “PBParrish10” to receive 10% off classes or packages. 941-538-7778 Parrish@Purebarre.com
ARSENAULT AESTHETICS 10% discount at all locations. Can be combined with existing offers and promotions. Melissa Beachy: 616-886-7052 arsenaultaesthetics.com
BODYBAR PILATES
20% off memberships. 941-920-6323 bodybarpilates.com/studios/palmetto
BOATING
CARE FREE BOAT CLUB
$500 Off Initiation Fee 4801 37th Street S., St. Petersburg 866-539-2628
Phill.Ross@Carefreeboats.com
Tonya Wiley & Chris Lescher
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.
Why did you choose Palmetto, FL / Esplanade at Artisan Lakes? Is your residency full-time or part-time? If part-time, where else do you spend your time?
My husband, Chris Lescher, and I moved into Esplanade at Artisan Lakes when we made the tough decision to leave our home on Terra Ceia Bay after the 2024 hurricane season. We really like Palmetto, so we wanted to stay in the area but be far enough inland to be out of flood and evacuation zones. We found the perfect home with a pond in the backyard, so we still have a calming water view. We are full-time Members.
How long have you lived at Esplanade at Artisan Lakes? We moved in January 2026, so about one year.
What Lifestyle programs are you most interested in? Are you in a club? Do you attend any classes/clinics? Also, tell us your hobbies. We have really enjoyed the wine and bourbon tasting events. We took the intro to pickleball class and hope someday we will be good enough to actually play on our great courts. We enjoy cooking, traveling, watching tennis, and drinking wine with great charcuterie.
Tell us about your family and current or past professions. I am a marine biologist studying sharks, rays, and the endangered smalltooth sawfish. I have been researching their movements, habitat use, and migrations in Tampa Bay, Manatee River, and Terra Ceia Bay for over 20 years. One of my favorite parts of my job is giving public presentations about Florida’s endangered sawfish and teaching people what they can do to help prevent them from becoming extinct.
What is the best advice you have ever received or given?
From my grandmother: “If you aren’t 15 minutes early, then you are late.”
Where is the most exciting place you’ve traveled to and what made it so memorable?
Earlier this year, my husband and I went to Antarctica on Scenic Cruises for our 20th anniversary. The air was so clean, the sky was so blue, and the water was so clear. The hiking was incredible, and the wildlife viewing was absolutely spectacular. We saw so many whales, seals, and penguins up close. Although crossing the Drake Passage was not fun at all, it was definitely worth it!
Tell us something that might surprise people: I decided to be a marine biologist after I saw the movie Jaws and wanted to be Richard Dreyfuss’ character, Matt Hooper.
Anything else you’d like to share?
We look forward to meeting more of our neighbors and attending more social events now that we are settled in our gorgeous home in Esplanade at Artisan Lakes.
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Weekly Member Clubs
BILLIARDS CLUB
Tuesdays | 3 - 5 p.m.
Al Agabiti: aaa3605@gmail.com
BOCCE CLUB
Wednesdays | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Kim Palmer: kimpalmer8733@gmail.com
BOOT CAMP
Mondays | 9 - 10 a.m. | Movement Studio
Erin Gagnon: eringagnon40@gmail.com
Kelly Manous: pkcgmano@yahoo.com
COUNTRY + POP FUSION DANCE PARTY CLUB
Tuesdays | 2:30 - 4 p.m.
Kristie Morand: kristiemorand@verizon.net
HAPPY
HOUR BOCCE
Wednesdays | 3 - 5 p.m.
John Uhouse: johnu52@yahoo.com
LADIES BRIDGE
2nd & 4th Wednesday | 12:45 - 4 p.m.
Dorene Mallard: dmallard1750@gmail.com
Monthly Member Clubs
BOOK CLUB
4th Monday | 6 p.m. | Location Varies
Sue Barber: barber.sue@gmail.com
BUNCO
Third Monday | 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Helene Castellon: helenecastellon@gmail.com
CARS IN THE MORNING
Various Days | Resort Amenity Center
John Wright: johnbcruzn@aol.com
DUPLICATE BRIDGE
2nd & 4th Thurs | 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Dorene Mallard: dmallard1750@gmail.com
EUCHRE CARD CLUB
3rd Thursday | 5 p.m. | The Venue II
Dee Hamm: deehamm78@gmail.com
LINE
DANCING CLUB
Wednesdays 1 - 2 p.m. | Fridays 12:152:15 p.m. | Saturdays 11 a.m.
Movement Studio
Toby Kelley: tkelley@tampabay.rr.com
MAHJONG
Mondays | 12 - 3 p.m. | The Venue II
Joann Von Werne: popsrvw@aol.com
MARTIAL
ARTS CLUB
Tuesdays | 1 - 2 p.m. | Movement Studio
Lee Monday: leemondayphd@gmail.com
PINOCHLE CARD CLUB
Wednesdays | 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Ken Finc: kenfinc@gmail.com
SHANGHAI RUMMY
2nd & 4th Wednesday | 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Pam Pennetta: pampennetta@gmail.com
SOCIAL BOCCE
Thursdays | 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Bonnie Sikes: kbsikes51@gmail.com
GOLF CART CLUB
Various Days
Cindy Byno: cbyno@icloud.com
GOLF CLUB
Various Days
Dan Santor: dsantork@aol.com
HANDICRAFT CLUB
1st & 3rd Saturdays | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Yuliya Ozparca: yozparca@gmail.com
LADIES LUNCHEON
2nd Wednesday | 12 p.m. | Offsite
Sue Brett: Suebrett0424@gmail.com
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS CLUB
Various Days
Lisa Hoffman: ort-hoffman@juno.com
SAMBA CARD CLUB
Tuesdays | 12 - 4:30 p.m.
The Venue II
Susan Howe: susanahowe@gmail.com
SPIN CLUB
Various Days
Dave Sutton: cycleguy605@gmail.com
TABLE TENNIS CLUB
Tuesdays & Wednesdays I 2:30 - 4 p.m.
The Venue II
Lee Monday: leemondayphd@gmail.com
TABLE TOP GAMES CLUB
Wednesdays I 7 - 9 p.m.
The Venue II
Rob Taylor: EAAL.tabletopgames@gmail.com
TENNIS CLUB
Mixed Intermediate Tuesdays & Thursdays | 6 - 8 p.m.
Tennis Courts 1 & 2
Jeff Hootman: jahooter@gmail.com
MEN’S DINNER GROUP
3rd Monday | 5 - 8 p.m. | Offsite
Scott Durann: sdurann@gmail.com
NEIGHBORS BREAKING BREAD
Various Days
Diane Green: juniemoon083@gmail.com
OENOPHILE CLUB
1st Wednesday | 6:30 p.m.
Kathy Regan: kmcregan@gmail.com
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR SINGLES
1st Monday | 7 p.m.
Helene Castellon: helenecastellon@gmail.com
Recent Events
Pickled Pink PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Thanks to our community, we raised $3,695 for the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. The day featured round-robin play in Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles, with top teams recognized during the awards ceremony, and everyone wore pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, adding energy and purpose to the event. A special thank-you to Ellen Kay for hosting the Survivors Table with volunteers. We ended the day with the Pickled Pink Social, a fun, no-score mixer celebrating community, connection, and play.
Oktoberfest CELEBRATION
Our Oktoberfest celebration brought together Members for an evening of festive camaraderie and seasonal fun. Each attendee enjoyed a giant pretzel and seasonal beer selections, including a flavorful amber and a crisp IPA blonde. The event featured lively entertainment with a professional DJ and a live accordionist, creating a vibrant atmosphere that truly captured the spirit of Oktoberfest.
Members enjoyed a fun-filled fall celebration coming dressed in their best Halloween costumes and bringing plenty of spirit and laughter to the courts. The competition was friendly, the atmosphere festive, and the most creative costume took home a special prize.
Pumpkin Pickler PICKLEBALL ROUND ROBIN
Recent Events
Halloween BINGO
Members gathered for an engaging night filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition. Members were dressed in the color orange and costumes, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event featured multiple rounds of bingo, a raffle prize, and a spirited environment.
Spooktacular BASH
The event offered a wonderful opportunity for Members to enjoy great company and share in the joy of the season. We celebrated everyone’s creativity with a costume contest, congratulating our winners: Scariest Costume - The Grim Reaper; Funniest Costume: - Nurses & Patients; Most Original Costume - Chicken & Colonel Sanders; and Best Overall - The Broken Gate. The night was filled with smiles, animated conversations, and plenty of Halloween cheer.
Trunk or Treat & PUPPY COSTUME CONTEST
The event was filled with creativity and Halloween spirit as participants showcased decorated trunks, golf carts, and imaginative costumes. Trick-or-treaters enjoyed collecting candy and admiring the unique designs. The Puppy Costume Contest featured adorable pets dressed in their Halloween best, with winners recognized in four categories: Most Creative, Funniest, Best Overall, and Cutest.
Upcoming Events
All activities/events subject to change. For details and to register, visit esplanadeartisanlakeslifestyle.com/events.
CAM CHAT
Every Tuesday
The Venue II | By Appointment Only
Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your Community Association Manager (CAM) to have all your questions answered! Appointments can be made by emailing EALMemberCare@TeamEsplanade.com. Meetings are available in person, by phone, or via video chat.
TASTY THURSDAY FOOD TRUCK NIGHTS
Thursdays, January 8 & February 5 | 5 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Parking Lot
Why cook when you can indulge in delicious meals from the best local food trucks? Every first Thursday, join your neighbors for an evening of great food, fun, and zero kitchen cleanup. Pick up your favorite dish to take home or enjoy it with friends on the extended lanai. It’s the perfect way to savor tasty eats and good company, so mark your calendar and come hungry! Find food truck details on the Esplanade event calendar online.
MARINE BIOLOGIST PRESENTS: SAWFISH
Friday, January 9 | 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Sawfish are large, shark-like rays once common in Florida’s coastal waters. Today, the smalltooth sawfish is endangered. Join Tonya Wiley, President of Havenworth Coastal Conservation, for an engaging presentation on this fascinating species. She’ll share interesting facts, research updates (including in Tampa Bay), and ways you can help with sawfish conservation. Attendees will also get to see a three-foot sawfish replica, handle real sawfish rostra (saws), and take-home free sawfish-themed swag!
SIP WINE CLUB: TRY & BUY
Monday, January 12 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Johnson Brothers will be offering samples of six carefully selected wines, giving you the chance to discover new favorites and purchase the ones you love. This is the perfect opportunity to mingle with neighbors, savor delicious wines, and enjoy an evening of community and conversation!
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY
Fridays, January 16 & February 20 | 5 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Parking Lot
Skip the kitchen and start your weekend with delicious meals from the best local food trucks! Whether you’re picking up dinner to go for the family or relaxing with friends on our extended lanai, it’s the perfect way to treat yourself. No cooking, no cleanup, just great food and company. Food truck details on the event calendar online.
TRIVIA NIGHT
Tuesdays, January 20 & February 17 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Grab your friends and neighbors for a night of team trivia! Great Big Trivia host Jeremy will be asking questions that strike the right balance between fun and challenging. Bring your own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the event. Prizes will be awarded to the winning team!
BINGO NIGHT
Thursdays, January 22 & February 19 | 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Calling all Members 18 years and older! Join us for an exciting Bingo Night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a chance to win! Bring your game face and get ready for a night of fun you won’t want to miss. See you there!
DRINKS WITH MB
Friday, January 23 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Join MB for an interactive mixology class where she’ll teach you the skills and tricks behind crafting a selection of delicious drinks. Learn how to shake, stir, and garnish like a pro while enjoying the beverages you create. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this class is the perfect way to elevate your drink-making game!
Fitness & Wellness Events
SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Sundays, January 25 & February 22 | 5 - 6 p.m.
Movement Studio
Escape the hustle and bustle with our calming Sound Bath Meditation. Join us for a serene session where you can unwind, relax, and reconnect with your inner peace. Let soothing sounds and gentle guidance lead you into a state of tranquility.
This is your time to breathe deeply and embrace stillness—perfect for rejuvenating your mind and spirit. Come and find your calm!
Monthly Member Meetings
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Thursdays, January 1 & February 5
9:30 a.m. | Resort Amenity Center
Join your Lifestyle Manager for some coffee, as we discuss the most current Lifestyle news updates in a relaxed atmosphere.
FITNESS CENTER EQUIPMENT ORIENTATION
Thursdays, January 1 & February 5 | 4:10 - 5:10 p.m.
Fitness Center
Join Trainer Andrew for an informative Fitness Orientation session designed to help you get the most out of our Fitness Center. These sessions will guide you through the proper and safe use of our equipment, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable during your workouts. Whether you’re new to the gym or just need a refresher, this is a great opportunity to learn proper techniques and ask questions.
Pamper & Reset!
Indulge in a well-deserved escape and treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa massage with our talented massage therapist, Victoria Thomas. With her expert touch and personalized approach, Victoria will help you melt away stress and tension, leaving you feeling revitalized and refreshed. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or relief from muscle aches, this is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your well-being and indulge in a moment of tranquility. Don’t miss out on this chance to pamper yourself, you deserve it!
Visit the Concierge Desk or call the Resort Amenity Center at 941479-6575 to schedule your appointment today!
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Thursdays, January 8 & February 12
9:30 a.m. | Resort Amenity Center
Join your Community Association Manager (CAM) for the most current updates about your community.
ESPLANADE 101
Thursdays, January 8 & February 12
11 a.m. | Resort Amenity Center
Join us for the new homeowner orientation with the Lifestyle Manager and CAM as we introduce you to everything Esplanade.
Culinary Events
SALAD BAR POTLUCK
Tuesday, January 27 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
Join us for a refreshing Salad Bar Potluck featuring a colorful array of fresh greens, crisp vegetables, and delicious proteins. Everything you need to create a satisfying, healthy dinner. Best of all, it’s a wonderful chance to connect and share great conversations with your neighbors!
CULINARY CONNECTIONS
Sunday, January 18 & Friday, February 27 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Resort Amenity Center Main Room
If you enjoy cooking, experimenting in the kitchen, or talking about food and recipes, this is the night for you! Join us to practice a new recipe or share a tried-and-true favorite; the theme for this session will be announced soon.
Participants are asked to bring their dish ready to share, along with a 3x5 card listing the recipe name and a copy of the recipe. Together, we’ll sample each item, discuss challenges and successes, and exchange helpful tips for next time. This is a wonderful opportunity to play in the kitchen, try something new, and discover great recipes from neighbors — all while connecting with community Members who nourish both your belly and your soul.
Each person attending must bring a dish to share, and if you are coming with a spouse, each of you should bring a separate dish. (Note: This is not a general potluck — premade or store-bought items are not allowed.)
Around Town
SARASOTA WINTER SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL
January 2 - 4 | Friday, 4:30 - 10 p.m. | Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sarasota Fairgrounds, Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota Free Admission | www.paragonfestivals.com
Kick off the new year with delicious food, live music, and local flair at the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival, proudly produced by Paragon Festivals. Enjoy a weekend of fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes—all cooked onsite and paired with tasty sides, desserts, and refreshing beverages. Groove to live performances from some of Florida’s top musical talents, featuring genres like R&B, jazz, rock, and soul. Between sets, explore the artisan marketplace filled with unique art, crafts, and gourmet products. Treat yourself to a weekend of great flavors, good music, and Sarasota sunshine!
FLORIDA STATE FAIR
February 5 - 16 | 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Florida State Fairgrounds | 4800 U.S. Hwy 301 North, Tampa General Admission: $11.75 | floridastatefair.com
Each February, the Florida State Fair transforms the fairgrounds into a lively celebration of Florida’s culture, creativity, and
community spirit. As the first state fair of the year in the U.S., it sets the tone for the season with exciting new foods, attractions, and experiences. Guests can explore a vibrant midway filled with rides, live entertainment, and interactive exhibits, while the heart of the fair showcases Florida’s agricultural heritage through impressive livestock shows and educational displays. From classic fair favorites to inventive culinary creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The fair continues to be a cherished tradition that brings people of all ages together for fun, learning, and memories.
CULINARY
Raspberry Red Bakewell Tart
Prep Time: 30 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Yield: 12 Servings
INGREDIENTS
» 1 sheet refrigerated pie pastry
» 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
FILLING INGREDIENTS
» 1/4 cup seedless raspberry jam
» 2/3 cup butter, softened
» 3/4 cup sugar
» 3 large eggs
» 1 large egg yolk
» 1 tablespoon baking cocoa
» 2 teaspoons red paste food coloring
» 1 cup ground almonds
ICING INGREDIENTS
» 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
» 3 tablespoons water
» 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°. Unroll pastry sheet into a 9-inch fluted tart pan with removable bottom; trim even with rim. Freeze 10 minutes.
2. Line unpricked pastry with a double thickness of foil. Fill with pie weights, dried beans or uncooked rice. Bake 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
3. Remove foil and weights; brush bottom of crust with egg white. Bake 6-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
4. Spread jam over bottom of crust. In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Gradually beat in eggs, egg yolk, cocoa and food coloring. Fold in ground almonds. Spread over jam.
5. Bake 30-35 minutes or until filling is set. Cool completely on a wire rack.
6. In a small bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar, water and extract until smooth; drizzle or pipe over tart. Refrigerate leftovers.
Resource: www.tasteofhome.com. Recipe by Crystal Schlueter.