Esplanade Lifestyle - Wiregrass | Mar/Apr 2024

LIFESTYLE

Gregg

Furry

Exclusive

Esplanade at

Corrin

Corrin.Godlevske@TeamEsplanade.com Caroline

Caroline.Roeber@TeamEsplanade.com

Lori

EsplanadeWiregrassLifestyle.com 800-720-0028

Hours:

Sales Gallery Hours

Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday, 12 - 6 p.m.

Cheryl Steers

Community Sales Manager 813-240-0553

CSteers@TaylorMorrison.com

Xiomara Romanov

Community Sales Manager 813-685-3399

XRomanov@TaylorMorrison.com

Brianna Pyles Community Sales Manager BPyles@TaylorMorrison.com

Christina Brice Community Sales Manager CBrice@TaylorMorrison.com

Letter From the Lifestyle Team

CAROLINE ROEBER YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER

Welcome Spring!

Spring is in bloom; birds are chirping, flowers are blossoming, and Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch is embracing this sunshine with many upcoming Sport Court and Bocce events! It is the perfect time to enjoy leisurely walks, pick up a new hobby, and enjoy the beauty of nature around us. We’re approaching the upcoming months with exciting events that are sure to be a hit!

In March, come on out to our first Signature Event of the year, “Esplanade in Bloom” on March 9. Also, in March, experience a night of laughs and fun at “Karaoke Fun Night.” On April 1, join us for the “Power Pollinator Class,” where Members will get the chance to learn about power pollinators and will even get to take home their very own power pollination house to put in their gardens. Check out your calendar of events and be sure to sign up to attend.

Our wonderful community continues to grow! The Lifestyle Program is tailored to your interests, so do not hesitate to reach out to us with your comments and suggestions for events in the future. We encourage all newly closed Members to join us for Esplanade 101, as it is the key to your Lifestyle here at Esplanade. Wishing you a bright and happy spring!

Andy Grantham

YOUR MAINTENANCE PROFESSIONAL

Andy Grantham is your Maintenance Professional here at Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch. He has an extensive background working in the maintenance field, starting out his career with a builder in Spring Hill, Florida where Andy learned many of his trades. He then went on to run the service department in a cabinet shop for about two years.

He has been providing maintenance services for HOA communities since 2015. Andy has a knack for problem-solving and a passion for keeping things running smoothly. He is committed to safety, efficiency, and top-notch service. He maintains the grounds here at Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch and services the community daily.

In his free time, Andy enjoys making music, camping, connecting with nature, watching sports, and playing sports.

Say hello if you see Andy around the community!

Trip Spotlight & Special Offer

10 Day Mediterranean Cruise - Barcelona to Venice

Monuments of history and jaw-dropping panoramas blend beautifully on this voyage that explores some of the most charismatic destinations across the Mediterranean, from the Dalmatian gem of lively Split to fabled towns along the glorious Amalfi Coast. Embark on a journey of sophistication, where luxury meets discovery.

To learn more or to book this trip, visit www.journeys360travel. com/ere-member/charismatic-mediterranean-barcelona-to-venice10-days. As a benefit of Destinations by Esplanade, book now and receive a special offer of $200 Shipboard credit per stateroom from Journeys 360 Travel. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary adventure. Please email info@journeys360travel.com or call at 239-829-8299 for more details. Certain conditions apply.

Esplanade in

Saturday, March 9

2 - 5 p.m. | The Venue

Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch

Experience the blossoming charm of this jubilant spring affair adorned with blooming flowers, joyful festivities, and the spirit of renewal.

Gregg & Marsha Werner

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 Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch?

The concept of “resort living” was appealing to us. We like The Venue and all its amenities, especially the resort style pool, sport courts, and fitness center. We also thought that it would be easier to meet people and develop friendships where everyone is new to the community. As “icing on the cake,” we think the sandwiches at Toasted are great!

What Lifestyle Programming are you interested in? Hobbies?

We look forward to social gatherings and pickleball and bocce

Furry Friends

Meet Choowee

LOVED BY THE GORDIAN FAMILY

ball events. Gregg is a habitual golfer. Marsha enjoys spending time gardening, which uses the other side of her brain compared to her business as a wealth adviser with Raymond James. Both of us exercise daily and prefer vacations that involve lots of physical activity. In May, we are embarking on a bucket list vacation item as we spend a week hiking and snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received or given?

Choose your attitude. Do not be governed by your emotional responses to the situations in which you find yourself. The ability to choose your attitude is a significant difference between humans and animals.

Tell us something about yourselves that may surprise people?

We belong to a theatrical group in Barrington, Illinois. The group puts on five plays per year in which the members take turns selecting and producing the plays. The directors also choose which members will perform the various roles within the plays. Gregg is a choral singer and has performed in community theater plays and musicals as well.

Where is the most exciting place you’ve traveled, and what made it so memorable?

Our trip to Peru exceeded expectations. We began with a visit to the Peruvian portion of the Amazon basin and experienced the eerie sounds of the jungle on a night hike. We then flew to Cuzco (altitude of 13,000 feet) to begin our multi-day mountain hike to Machu Picchu. The mountain vistas are much more breathtaking than the camera can convey. Lastly, the Peruvian food was fabulously delicious.

Choowee is a 12-year-old Peekinese Poodle mix (Peekapoo) who adores playtime and other dogs. He has been with the Gordians since he was two months old. They fell in love with him immediately. He got his name from chewing on his new owner’s fingers while on his drive to his forever home. Choowee is an amazing companion for the family, and they could not imagine their lives without him! Contact your Lifestyle Manager to answer a few questions and share some photos to be featured in an upcoming edition.

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 are excited to 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 or organization that would like to partner with Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.

BEAUTY

MARI’S MOBILE NAILS

Contact Mari: 813-507-3967 facebook.com/marismobilenails

NU IMAGE MED SPA

Free consultation for all injectables and spa services. swallace@nuimaespa.com nuimagespa.com

EUROPEAN WAX CENTER

Introductory free waxing service plus an additional 10% off ongoing services and products. 50% off a fullback hair removal service. 813-607-4455 reservations.waxcenter.com

GOLF

VELOCITY CUSTOM GOLF CARS

$250 off of a New Golf Cart 813-501-2103 velocitycustomgolfcars.com

THE TROON CARD

Members receive 25% off standard Troon Card prices - golfers experience the World of Troon at the best rates. troon.com/product/troon-cardesplanade

TRANSPORTATION

AFFARI TRANSPORTATION

10% Discount 813-448-4703 affaritampa.com

DRY CLEANING

QUALITY PLUS DRY CLEANING

Free Pickup & Delivery Service 727-807-3257 qpcleaners.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

ARTISAN HOME IMPROVEMENT

Spencer Brice: 321-848-4404 or spencerbrice12@yahoo.com

GARAGE OCD

Total garage organizing, customizing, and detailing service, as well as most handyman services, paver pressure washing, stripping and sealing.

10% Discount on All Services 813-783-4013 garageocd@outlook.com

KIMBERLY ELIZABETH INTERIORS

Interior Design

10% off all interior design services in your home. Kimberly Elizabeth kimberlyelizabeth.com

MDCT PROPERTIES

Water Softener Services & Repairs mdctproperties@gmail.com

NEXT LEVEL TRIM

Custom Woodworking and Home Improvement. 5% off. Dave Sa: 813-580-0673 nextleveltrim.com

PATIOS & POOLS

By Coastal Improvement Offering $1000 off any new pool or outdoor space projects. 813-803-0692 patiosandpools.us

JEWELER

CORTES JEWELERS

Free jewelry cleaning and inspection, as well as 40% off of a new watch battery for Esplanade Members. cortesjewelers@gmail.com cortesjewelers.jewelershowcase.com

PETS

PAW WASH PLUS Grooming Services 727-375-7070

K9 ADVENTURE

Dog Daycare

10% Off Regular Services 727-375-9995 k9adventurestrinity.com

FOOD & DRINK

PRP WINE

Complimentary In-Home Wine Tasting ($79 value)

Jason Lima: 813-621-1911 prpwine.com

BOYETTE FAMILY FARMS

10% off. Open Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. 6715 Boyette Road, Wesley Chapel, 813-312-5388

FITNESS & ACTIVITIES

KAI LANI CATAMARAN

Catamaran Cruise: $45 per person 727-656-7894 | kailanicat.com

LIGHTS OUT BOXING

10% off a new membership. lightsoutboxing.com

SARAH VANDE BERG TENNIS CENTER MEMBERSHIP

No Imitation Fee, 20% Discount on All Membership Fees & 1 Free Salt Session 813-361-6660 svbtenniscenter.com

HOTEL RATES

Ask your Lifestyle team for more info about special discounts at area hotels.

Recent Events

New Year Bocce Ball DROP CHALLENGE

Members got the chance to compete against other teams in a thrilling bocce ball showdown. They aimed for precision as the clock ticked down and experienced the excitement of the ball drop marking the beginning of a spirited tournament.

Propagating Hydroponic AIR PLANTS CLASS

Members captivated their gardening senses, while learning the art of propagating hydroponic air plants and took home their creations to watch them flourish.

Corks & Courts Pickleball SOCIAL

Members came out for a spirited celebration at our Pickleball Social and toasted to the New Year! They served, volleyed, and rallied their way into 2024 with friends, laughter, and festive refreshments.

Soup SHOWDOWN

Members competed for the Souperior Golden Ladel in a shared culinary experience with homemade soups judged by staff and Members. The winner, Esperanza Gordian, received the rights to the Golden Ladle and matching apron awarded by our Lifestyle Manager.

Bingo Red Heart FUNDRAISER

Members joined Caring Neighbors for an evening of competition in a fast-paced bingo game to benefit the American Red Cross.

Recent Events

Enchanted Garden Fork PAINTING CLASS

Members enjoyed a night of fun during our instructional painting class painting Enchanting Gardens with dinnerware fork techniques.

Valentine Coffee Flight AT TOASTED CAFÉ

Members were head over heels for this month’s coffee flights, starting with Toasted Pistachio White Mocha. Then, melted away into a sweet and savory Valentine’s Day Delight, followed by the icy, blended goodness of our Chocolate Chip Cookie Frappuccino. Finally, the Toasted Cafe Affogato, combined the richness of coffee with the creaminess of ice cream.

Red Heart Gala with CARING NEIGHBORS

Members attended the first annual Red Heart Gala to raise funds and awareness for the American Heart Association. Members danced and mingled at this decadent event where their very own band, RPM 55, performed. Members enjoyed light bites and a delicious dessert bar. The gala raised $3,031 for the American Heart Association!

Around Town

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Now Through March 10

Plant City | flstrawberryfestival.com

Every year, the festival features live music, entertaining shows, delicious strawberry treats, and dozens of exciting rides to keep you and your family entertained all day long. There will be no shortage of decadent strawberry desserts, including strawberry shortcake, strawberry milkshakes, chocolate covered strawberries and so much more! Enjoy the lively atmosphere, and make unforgettable memories!

KRATE AT THE GROVE

The Grove | krateatthegrove.com

This is one of the largest and most exciting container parks in the world that attracts visitors from all over the globe. Welcome to KRATE at Wesley Chapel! Visit their unique shops and restaurants featuring different artisan products and cuisines and be entertained by performances on the KRATE stage showcasing members of the community. They promote locally-owned businesses and vendors, so you can shop and support local!

Upcoming Events

All activities/events subject to change. For details and to register, visit esplanadewiregrasslifestyle.com/events.

SHAMROCK SHOWDOWN CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Saturday, March 2 | 9 - 11 a.m.

The Venue

Celebrate the coming of spring in style at our Cornhole Social Event! Grab your lucky bean bags, wear your favorite shades of green, and join us for a festive day of friendly competition and camaraderie. Whether you’re a cornhole pro or just looking for a good time, this event promises a bit of Irish luck, laughter, and maybe even a pot of gold for the winners. Let the good times roll as we toss bags and enjoy the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day together!

THE RACING SERIES

Monday, March 4 | 5 - 7 p.m.

Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch

Tour through Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch with racing legend and winery owner Kevin Buckler. Highlighting the Petaluma, California winery’s lineup of four award-winning red wines called The Racing Series. Each stop features a mobile winery, pop-up racing paddock, award-winning wine tastings, delicious food, fast cars, and appearances from Buckler. The event will also feature the Daytona winning #66 Porsche GT3 on display at all stops.

SIGNATURE EVENT: ESPLANADE IN BLOOM

Saturday, March 9 | 2 - 5 p.m.

The Venue

Experience the blossoming charm of this jubilant spring affair adorned with blooming flowers, joyful festivities, and the spirit of renewal.

KARAOKE FUN NIGHT

Mondays, March 11 & April 8 | 7 - 9 p.m.

The Venue

Join your fellow Members for a night of karaoke fun! Sing, dance, and laugh your way into a wonderful evening while you enjoy light bites. Toasted Café will be open for your beer and wine purchases!

LUCKY GREEN MEMBER MIXER

Friday, March 15 | 7 - 9 p.m.

The Venue

Follow your fellow leprechauns to the Lucky Green Member Mixer! Indulge in light bites, test your luck at finding the Golden Coin, while we play Lucky Green Trivia! Toasted Café will be open for your food and wine beverage purchases.

BLOODY MARY MIXER CLASS

Saturday, March 16 | 2 - 3 p.m.

The Venue | $5

Join your Lifestyle Manager, Caroline Roeber for the perfect Bloody Mary Mixer Class. Learn the art of mixing, garnishing, and executing the perfect Bloody Mary complete with a southern ball jar you will be able to take home with you and just add vodka.

PAWSITIVE PURPOSE

Wednesday, March 20 | 5:30 - 6 p.m.

Bark Park

Join your fellow furry friends at the Bark Park for a friendly playdate with a Pawsitive Purpose. Please, if you are able, bring an old blanket to donate to a local no-kill shelter. Your Lifestyle team will collect these donations. Let’s make a difference for your furry friends in need.

Upcoming Events

All activities/events subject to change. For details and to register, visit esplanadewiregrasslifestyle.com/events.

POWER POLLINATOR CLASS

Monday, April 1 | 2 - 3 p.m.

The Venue

Did you know there are 300 species of Mason and Leaf Cutter Bees throughout the United States and Canada? In this class, you will learn about Power Pollinators, the essentials of power pollination, while you sip on local honey-infused tea flights from the Toasted Café. Each participant will receive a power pollination house for their very own flower garden.

CACTI CANDLE TERRARIUM CLASS

Wednesday, April 17 | 6 - 8 p.m.

The Venue | $12

Join your Lifestyle Manager, Caroline Roeber, as we learn to make Cacti Candles in an adorable terrarium bowl. Socialize with your friends and of course bring your favorite beverage of choice. This activity will be $12 per Member.

FITNESS CENTER ORIENTATION

Fridays | 10 a.m.

Wellness Center

Join your Fitness Manager for an introduction to Technogym equipment, and learn about the benefits each piece of equipment.

Monthly Member Meetings

COFFEE & CONVERSATION

Tuesdays, March 5 & April 2 10 - 11 a.m. | The Venue

Join your Lifestyle Manager for a relaxing and informative meeting. Find out what’s happening on the social scene. Bring your questions and suggestions.

KENTUCKY DERBY HAT CRAFT CLASS

Monday, April 29 | 7 - 8:30 p.m.

The Venue | $8

Join us for a evening of creations as we use inspired ideas to elevate your Kentucky Derby hat. Hats and accessories will be provided; however, if you have a specific hat you would like to use please bring it. Sip on your favorite drink and enjoy the company of others.

ESPLANADE 101

Wednesdays, March 13 & April 10 1 - 2 p.m. | The Venue

New Homeowner orientation for Members who recently closed on their homes. Join your management team and find out everything you need to know about Esplanade.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Wednesdays, March 13 & April 10

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. | The Venue

Meet with your Community Association Manager and discuss community matters. Find out what’s happening around the community.

Interest Groups & Social Clubs

Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Any Member wishing to develop an interest group or club should contact their Lifestyle Manager to receive information and an application. Your Lifestyle Manager 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 group, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out the current Clubs and Interest Groups below!

BICYCLING CLUB

First Sunday | 9 a.m.

Ed Mandel: toothmaned77@gmail.com

BITES WITH THE BOYS

Monthly | 11:30 a.m.

See website calendar for dates & locations.

Jerry Brown: brow1@gmail.com

BOOK CLUB

First Wednesday | 6 p.m. | The Venue

Erl Piscitelli: ekpiscitelli@aol.com

BRIDGE CLUB

Thursday | 1 p.m. | The Venue

Della Mandel: adela.mandel24@gmail.com

BUNCO

Third Monday | 1:30 p.m. | The Venue

Tammy Barnes: tleeb507@yahoo.com

BWC & SPADES CARD GROUP

Fridays | 1 - 4 p.m. | The Venue

Art Colbert: qlm2047@gmail.com

GENEALOGY CLUB

Last Wednesday | 7 p.m. | The Venue

Jane: jane@alkington.com

LADIES LUNCH BUNCH

Monthly | 11:30 a.m.

See website calendar for dates & locations.

Lynne Brown: brow1lyn@gmail.com

MAHJONG

Wednesday | 1 p.m. | The Venue

Roberta Hyde: rshyde@hotmail.com

MEXICAN TRAIN

Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | The Venue

Carol Gelormine: carolgelormine15@gmail.com

MUSICIANS GROUP

Tuesday | 8 p.m. | The Venue

Bert Quinones: hq57swim@yahoo.com

PINOCHLE

Tuesday | 1 p.m. | The Venue

Herb Hyman: herbhyman@hotmail.com

POKER NIGHT

Monthly | 7 p.m. | The Venue

See website calendar for dates.

Ed Mendel: toothmaned77@gmail.com

SINGLES GROUP

Monthly | The Venue

See website calendar for dates and times.

Taffi Stearman: udisstearman@gmail.com

TABLE TENNIS GROUP

Tuesdays | 1 - 2 p.m. | The Venue

Dan Reyes: reyes.dan@verizon.net

THEATER GROUP

Second Tuesday | 2 p.m. | The Venue

Rosalina Perez: rosa4141@gmail.com

YARN LOVERS

Monthly | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | The Venue

Leslie Urso: leslie.urso@gmail.com

Saving the Monarch Butterfly

Taylor Morrison is proud to partner with the National Wildlife Federation, the nation’s largest and most trusted conservation organization

Through this partnership, Esplanade has taken the Monarch Pledge to help save the monarch butterfly by planting demonstration gardens, planting native milkweed and flowers, and educating Members about conservation. Taylor Morrison is proud to have more than 1,000 acres of National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat® in our open space and parks (including, but not limited to Esplanade communities) and have a number of successful monarch butterfly demonstrations gardens already completed. Visit nwf.org/ MayorsMonarchPledge/About/Taylor-Morrison to learn more!

Group Fitness Classes

The class schedule is subject to change. A minimum of three participants is required or a class may be cancelled. Please visit esplanadewiregrasslifestyle.com to see the most up-to-date information.

BOXING

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 11 a.m.

Taking place at the Lights Out Boxing Club alongside your Fitness Manager, this experience is a non-contact circuit style class created for 55 and up 1-on-1 time with the bag. You’ll also be equipped with the latest boxing gear and hand wraps for an authentic and safe workout. There is no reason to be intimidated, just come learn the basics! We have modifications for everything! Targeting cardio and strength, this a fun class like no other to enjoy. All fitness levels.

HIIT (HIGH INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING)

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays | 8 a.m.

Low-impact cardio, strength, flexibility to improve skills for daily living. A great way to improve your day-to-day routine and get back into shape. Great for starters who are looking to get in shape and maintain strength to keep you fit for everyday life.

LIIT (LOWER IMPACT INTERVAL TRAINING)

Mondays & Wednesdays | 9 a.m.

Fridays | 8 a.m.

This class takes a full-body approach with corrective exercises to lengthen tight muscles and strengthen weaker muscles. Task your body in a different way to receive the most benefit and be more painfree every day.

RESISTANCE TRAINING

Sundays | 2 p.m.

This class will provide instruction and demonstrate the importance of properly stretching before and after exercise, and in everyday life. A safe and healthy stretch routine helps to prevent injury by making the muscles more pliable. In addition, Members will work on improving posture, increasing flexibility and range of motion, and will work at strengthening the muscles.

SIT & TRAIN

Tuesdays at 12 p.m. | Thursdays at 8 a.m. | Fridays at 9 a.m.

A full-body workout while seated in a chair. The class utilizes free weights, resistance bands, range of motion bars, and bodyweight exercises. All exercises are meant to increase overall strength, range of motion, flexibility, and core strength. Standing balance exercises may also be performed to accommodate all fitness levels.

STEP AEROBICS

Mondays & Wednesdays | 10 a.m.

Free for all! This is a step class made for all who enjoy movement to music and exercise in a fun way in this 55 and up step class.

STRETCH & SELF MASSAGE

Sundays | 3 p.m.

Give your body the massage and stretch it needs. This class will provide instruction and demonstrate the importance of properly stretching before and after exercise, and in everyday life. A safe and healthy stretch routine helps to prevent injury by making the muscles more pliable. In addition, Members will work on improving posture, increasing flexibility and range of motion, and will work at strengthening the muscles. Please remember to bring water and a yoga mat!

YOGA

Mondays & Wednesdays | 11 a.m.

Yoga is an excellent form of holistic fitness aligning both the mind and body. In addition to learning and practicing poses to improve flexibility, mobility, and balance while building strength, Yoga also focuses on intentional breathing mirror meditation, drawing the focus to the breath and clearing the mind of thoughts. All levels are welcome.

Classes are $10 per Member and $15 per guest. Fitness class participants are required to give 24-hour notice to cancel from the class. Participants that cancel 24 hours in advance will not be charged a fee. After two no shows/late cancels in a calendar month, you will be charged a $6 fee for each late-cancel class.

Upcoming Court Sport Events

LET’S GLOW

Saturday, April 13 | 8 - 10 p.m.

Pickleball Courts

Get ready to illuminate the night at Esplanade’s glow-in-the-dark pickleball social. Members are invited to gather for an unforgettable evening of fun competition, spirited play, and vibrant festivities. Bring your A-game and dress to impress in your neon best as we transform our Pickleball Courts into a luminous environment of sport and style! The event includes a live DJ, Glow in the Dark Photo Booth, cash bar with signature cocktail, awards ceremony, prizes, and more!

LUCKY ROLLS BOCCE BALL SOCIAL

Monday, March 11 | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Bocce Courts | Complimentary

Roll the dice and embrace the luck at our Lucky Rolls Bocce Ball Social! This isn’t your average bocce game—it’s a chance to add an element of surprise to every roll. The dice will determine if they are rolling the ball with their right hand, left hand, or the “lucky roll” to get their bocce ball close to the pallina, creating a lively and unpredictable atmosphere on the bocce court. Join us for a morning of strategic throws, friendly banter, and a whole lot of luck. Whether you’re a bocce enthusiast or a newcomer, this event promises a fantastic time with twists and turns at every roll of the dice! Members are encouraged to wear their best green-inspired outfits for a prize! Come out and press your luck with us and have the time of your life!

Bourbon Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

INGREDIENTS

» 3 cans WHOLE water chestnuts (drained)

» 1 pound THIN sliced bacon

» 3 teaspoons soy sauce

» 1 tablespoon garlic powder

» 2 cups brown sugar divided for marinade and caramelizing

» 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

» ½ cup Jack Daniels Bourbon

» Parsley for garnish

» Toothpicks (round thick ones are suggested)

DIRECTIONS

1. Let the water chestnuts marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar and garlic powder (at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours).

2. Cut bacon strips in half.

3. Wrap a piece of bacon around each marinated chestnut, then secure the bacon with toothpicks.

4. Set the chestnuts on a wire rack on a sheet pan, baking sheet or baking dish and bake them at 375° (about 25 minutes).

5. While the chestnuts are in the oven, prepare the sauce. Whisk together ½ cup Jack Daniels bourbon, remaining brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.

6. Remove the partially cooked chestnuts from the oven, then pour the sauce over the top.

7. Bake the chestnuts for another 20 minutes or until the bacon crisps up and the sauce thickens and caramelizes.

8. Sprinkle a little chopped parsley on top, serve and enjoy.

Notes: Be sure to use whole chestnuts; the sliced version will not work. Do not use thick cut bacon. The thicker bacon will take a lot longer to cook and get crispy.

CULINARY

Bloody

MARY

INGREDIENTS

» 46 ounces tomato juice

» 1/4 cup horseradish

» 3/4 cup lemon juice

» 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce

» 3 teaspoons black pepper

» 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

DIRECTIONS

» 1 1/2 teaspoons celery salt

» 2 to 3 teaspoons hot sauce, or more if you like it spicy.

» Optional: vodka or tequila of your choosing, various items for garnish

1. In a large mixing bowl, add all ingredients and whisk until thoroughly combined.

2. Decant into a pitcher or bottle. Store in the fridge until ready to use. Stir or shake well before using.

3. If rimming glasses with salt, rub a lemon wedge around the outer edge of the glass. Place the rim salt on a small plate and roll the glass in the salt. Fill glasses with ice.

4. If adding vodka or tequila, add 2 ounces of alcohol to the glass.

5. Top with Bloody Mary mix.

6. Garnish at your leisure! Go classic with a leafy celery rib, olives, bacon, or a lemon or lime wedge. Creative garnishes could include: Old Bay shrimp, meatballs, cheese cubes, beef jerky, or pickled vegetables.