Winter 2009
In This Issue: Special Events . . . . . . . . . 1 Around the Club . . . . . . 2-3 Chef’s Corner. . . . . . . . . . 4 Photo Op! . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Play It Like a Pro. . . . . . 6-7 Community News . . . . . 8-9 December Calendar. . . . 10 January Calendar. . . . . . 11 At Your Service. . . . . . . 12
Christmas Brunch With Santa Sunday, December 20th 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A hit with children and grandchildren! Santa’s appearance, along with his special surprises make the day memorable for the kids and families. Enjoy our special buffet brunch and have your picture taken with Santa to remember this magical season with family and friends. $29++ for adults, children 6-16 $15++, 5 & under complimentary.
Toast The New Year With Our Traditional Champagne Brunch We can’t think of a better way to begin the first day of the New Year. So join us Friday, January 1st from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The brunch will be spectacular and raise a toast with a complimentary glass of champagne or a Bloody Mary. Adults $29++; children 6-16 $15++, under 5 are complimentary.
Pamper Body & Spirit
New Year New Beginnings Spa Day Tuesday, January 5th A relaxing new event in the comfort of your club! Start the New Year right with a full day of spa treatments to ease your body, mind and spirit. Choose from manicures, facials, massages and more.
AROUND THE CLUB Meet Susan Kruszewski Hospitality Services Manager A much anticipated addition to our team, Susan Kruszewski will be planning an array of special events as our Hospitality Manager, assisting in the dining room, and, in general, putting extra FUN into FoUNders! Born and raised in Miami, Susan appreciates all the sunshine state has to offer. Growing up in that major resort city made tourism a huge part of her life and meeting people from around the world gave her an opportunity to understand different cultures and she was able to travel around the country and the world.
Save These Dates Trivia Night Wednesday, December 16th Dinner 6:30 p.m. Trivia 8:00 p.m. Casual Dinner gets a little competitive once a month as we host Trivia Night. Compete with friends and fellow members for prizes and more importantly, bragging rights! Come for dinner from Chef Marco’s Table d’Hote menu and enjoy complimentary Trivia afterwards. Or join us later starting at 8:00 p.m. to play for just $10.
Christmas Brunch Buffet with Santa Sunday, December 20th 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa will join us for our traditional brunch buffet with fun and surprises for the kids. Enjoy this magical event and keep the family memories with pictures with Santa. $29 for adults, $15 for children 6-16 and children under 5 are complimentary. ++
Susan graduated from the University of Central Florida in Orlando with a degree in Marketing and Mass Communications. Afterwards, she worked in Cashiers, NC at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club, which is owned and operated by Discovery Land Company. Also, with Discovery, she had the opportunity to take a member services role planning events and tournaments at The Hideaway Golf Club in La Quinta, CA.
New Year’s Champagne Brunch
Susan is excited to be back in Florida where she’s closer to family. She appreciates the beauty and friendly atmosphere here and looks forward to being part of The Founders Club family of members and staff.
Start the New Year with a day of pampering. Enjoy manicures, facials, massages and more.
Friday, January 1st 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join us for a delicious New Year’s brunch and enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne or Bloody Mary. Adults $29; children half price.++
New Beginnings Spa Day Tuesday, January 5th
Valentines Day Dinner Friday, February 12th
Plan Your Private Events In This Gracious Setting No group is too large or too small to enjoy the special ambiance of The Founders Club. We will help you host your next event or meeting, with full services and a masterful selection of food and beverages to make it easy for you to plan any event from casual to formal. Our Clubhouse can serve up to 120 for a sit-down banquet style reception or accommodate 200+ for a cocktail/food station type of reception. And, with 700 acres of gorgeous views, our photo opportunities are superb.
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We’ll be glad to customize everything from menus to room setup with no room usage fee, setup fees or hidden costs. Our outstanding staff will provide attentive service and ensure that you and your guests enjoy an unforgetable experience.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Treat your special loved one to a romantic evening of champagne, flowers and a three-course gourmet meal. ++ Plus service charge and tax
Coming Soon… Dinner & Dance Lessons Have a wonderful Chef Marco created meal followed by an instructional dance lesson from some of Sarasota’s finest dancers. After the lesson there will be time to show off all your new moves. Details to come!
Dear Founders Club Member, It’s a pleasure to serve as President of The Founders Club for the new fiscal year. I look forward to working with the Board, the Club’s committees and all of you to make this a successful year. We are off to a good start for fiscal 2010. We reduced the operating deficit by about 40% last year and the overall performance improved over budget projections. And, we were still able to maintain the Club’s high standards. Although the economic environment remains difficult, causing a number of member resignations, we attracted sixteen new members since September through the creative membership programs. I am confident that we will continue to grow membership as seasonal Sarasota residents return. We can feel optimistic about having a more active Club and even better financial results in the coming year. The dining room has been very busy and the many special evenings have been successful. In addition, golf rounds are up compared to a year ago. This increased activity shows every sign of continuing and reaching even higher levels.
A gorgeous rainbow over number 11. Photo compliments of Mr. & Mrs. Hamilton.
Finally, although not directly related to the Club, it should be noted that real estate sales have gone up significantly during the last few months, with seventeen home sales since June 1st. This is a wonderful sign, as the success of the Club is inextricably linked to the success of the community. While on the topic of real estate sales, The Founders Club Development and Realty Companies have reached an alliance with Signature Sotheby’s International Realty. Partnering with Sotheby’s will provide onsite experts and access to Sotheby’s network to enhance The Founders Club exposure nationally and internationally. No doubt this arrangement is one reason for the increase in sales activity recently.
Fred Starling awaits to have some of Chef Marco’s Buffalo Strip at our Art, Food & Wine Fest this summer.
Many capable individuals are giving time and energy to ensure the success of The Founders Club. There has been one change to the structure of our committees. The Greens Committee and the Golf Committee have been combined to form the Golf and Greens Committee with Michael Riney being the Chairman and Jim Schell being his Vice-Chairman. These two gentlemen have agreed to continue the fine work that the late Dick Hammond has done as the Chairman of the Golf Committee. If you would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Hugh O’Donnell or any of the Board members or Committee chairs. As members we are all ambassadors for the Club and it is important that we all have the most up-to-date information available to convey within the Sarasota community. In closing, please join me in thanking Tom Brown for his dedication and good work as Club President over the last few years. He leaves me with big shoes to fill. Let me also thank all of you for your continued help in making The Founders Club the best private club experience in the Sarasota area. Humberto Vainieri President
The Polleys, Cliffords, Schells and Callanens enjoy The Founders Club 1st Annual “Meet, Mix & Mingle”
Walking Club Exercise is easier when we add camaraderie. Join friends and neighbors to walk around the Founders Club. Meet Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. in front of the clubhouse. Bring your four-legged friends too. Then stick around for lunch or a cool beverage on the verandah.
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Chef’s Corner Barbeque Ribs This is a dish that has a special meaning to me, it reminds me of when I first came to the States, and some friends took me to a BBQ stand. I still remember being unpleasantly surprised by the sweetness of Chef Marco Marini the sauce, and quite disgusted by the inevitable mess that accompanied such an eating technique. With the years passing I learned to appreciate a good barbeque, and I came to know that a good sauce is a balance of sweet and sour, and how that flavor profile perfectly matches the pork roast scent. I came to realize that my first encounter was spoiled by the use of cheap pre-made ingredients. I also got over my repulsion for bare-hand eating, and I now lick my fingers like a real American, even though the compulsion of washing my hands before and after is still there. I perfected my own recipe, and I get a kick by claiming that it comes from my aunt Louise in Arkansas.
BBQ Pork Ribs (for 6) Ingredients 3 whole slabs of Baby Back Ribs (if you want to know where to get a good quality rib for a good price, call me)
For the rub: ¼ onion 2 cloves of garlic 2 cups chili powder ½ cup cumin zest of 1 orange ½ cup salt pinch of ground black pepper ½ cup vegetable oil
For the sauce: ¼ onion 2 cloves of garlic 1/4 cup bacon fat (or butter, if you don’t have the good habit of saving the drips from breakfast)
2 16oz cans chili sauce 1 cup vinegar (apple cider or red wine)
½ cup red wine 1 cup apple juice juice of the orange you just zested ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup honey
Procedure Start by pureeing the onion and garlic, and then split it between a bowl and a thick bottom stockpot. Get the sauce going: add the fat to your puree, sweat for 1 or 2 minutes, then add all the liquids, season to taste and let simmer on very low until reduced to 60-70% of the original volume, about 2 hours. Remove from heat, add honey and sugar, stir and chill. Prepare the rub in the mixing bowl (or in the food processor if you have one), then spread it over your ribs, making sure to get a nice even layer especially on the top side, the rub may be lumpy, depending on the brand of spices and how fine you chopped the onion, thin it with a little water if you must, it should have the consistency of toothpaste. Bake the ribs at 275º for about 2-3 hours, the cooking time will vary with the quality of the meat and with the strength of the oven, a good way to tell if the ribs are done is by twisting a bone, if it comes loose from the meat easily, you are ready, otherwise, be patient. I recommend preparing the ribs early, and then, right before serving, brush them heavily with sauce, and throw under a low broiler until they start bubbling. Enjoy with a warm wet washcloth and a cold brew.
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Community News PHOTO OP!
The Herbs always have a great time at The Founders Club.
The Allens (left) and Fraczaks (right) enjoy another meal by Chef Marco.
Above: Resident member kids enjoy Kid’s Day at our Rec Center this past summer.
Right: Kameron Bradshaw gets her face painted.
A look at the beautiful artwork at our Art, Food & Wine Fest.
Practicing his swing across the country. Ernie Antonelli at the North Pole on his annual Harley trip to Alaska.
Stephen McDonald (Top left) and his guests at a Member Prospect Day this Summer.
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PLAY IT LIKE A PRO Golf Shop ANNUAL HOLIDAY SALE Friday, December 11 thru Sunday Dec 13 Great timing! Pick up bargains on gifts for family, friends… and treat yourself. We even make the giftgiving easier with free gift wrapping. Start shopping Friday, the 11th and enjoy refreshments, too!
Super Demo Day Saturday, January 9th 11 to 4 p.m. Meet us at the driving range where you can test drive all the latest equipment from your favorite brands – Callaway, TaylorMade, Cobra, Titleist, Wilson, Mizuna, and more.
Mark Your Calendar For Upcoming Events! Member/Prospect Day Wednesday, January 13th 1 p.m. Shotgun Bring up to three guests for an afternoon of golf with a Shotgun Scramble. No greens fees, just the cart fee per person! Feel free to invite spouses and guests to join us for cocktails after your round. Or extend your evening with dinner.
Ladies Member-Member Saturday, January 16th 12:30 p.m. Start One day special event. Members with guests optional. Sign up in the Pro Shop.
Couples Golf Sunday, January 17th 12:30 p.m. Shotgun
Ladies’ Guest Day Thursday, January 21st 9 a.m. Shotgun
Men’s Member-Member Friday, January 22 12:30 p.m. Shotgun Saturday, January 23 9 a.m. Shotgun For details, see the Pro Shop.
Mrs. Blacksher & her guest thoroughly enjoyed the Member/Prospect day.
Tip Of The Month How to Escape the Rough To improve your ability to get out of the rough, try this drill: Drop a ball in long grass, then place a second ball a foot behind it. Now practice hitting out without touching the second ball. Play the ball back in your stance, lean on your front foot and hit down hard.
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The Leedom and Johnson boys had a great time in the Parent/Child Tournament.
Community News Meet Our Golf Staff 2009 / 2010 Season Jeff Ulazcak returns as Caddie Master managing and recruiting for our caddie program as well as assisting in all golf operations. Carl Eskew is back from his summer position as Assistant Professional at Northmoor Country Club. Carl will be in the golf shop and helping in golf operations and member services. Andrew McKinney, who was on staff last season, rejoins us in early November from Chicago’s Sunset Ridge Club where he summers as their Assistant Professional. He’ll assist in outside operations as well as the golf shop this season.
Mrs. Sinclair & Mrs. Rossiter get some heavy instruction from Ed & Jeff at our Ladies Clinic.
David Miller and David Michaelson will be working in outside services. Both are valued, longtime employees in our ‘Red Shirt’ operation. Lou Rebstock returns as well for our upcoming season for his fourth year. Vince Haas has been a part-time long term employee and is back to serve our members. Al Blizard has been a Caddie with us for two years and will continue while also working as a ‘Red Shirt.’
Lessons Are In Full Swing Six Lessons for the Price of Five! One lesson can make a world of difference in that pesky problem. Even better, choose a series of six lessons and only pay for five. And, if you’re serious about long-term improvement, our coaching program provides unlimited lessons during a twelve-month period for one fee. See Ed for details.
Weekly Golf Clinics Wednesdays and/or Saturdays 10 a.m. Join us as we discuss all aspects of golf including full swing, chipping, pitching, putting, sand play as well as course management. See Ed for details.
Members and Guests enjoy our October Member/Prospect Day.
Our September Member/Prospect day was an enjoyable day for all Members and their guests.
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THE TARTAN - COMMUNITY NEWS Community Sales Take Off
The Founders Club is pleased to announce that there have been 18 sales or pending contracts in the community since June! These record-setting results are a good indicator of the overall market recovery, the appeal of The Founders Club as a new community, and great values offered today.
The Signature Sotheby’s International Realty Team (from left): Brian Wood, Cheryl Loeffler, Jaci Krawtschenko, Sara Boudarga
Signature Sotheby’s International Realty Joins The Founders Club Team
Sarasota’s most reputable real estate firm, Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, has joined The Founders Club as its exclusive onsite brokerage. With over half the listings over $750,000 in Sarasota, Signature Sotheby’s International Realty is the dominant player in the luxury home market and your onsite property expert. Signature Sotheby’s International Realty brings an accomplished team of Sales Associates in Sara Boudarga and Brian Wood. They will be onsite seven days a week to provide the highest level of customer service to those interested in purchasing property in The Founders Club. Sara and Brian have extensive experience in general and new home sales, both having worked onsite at The Founders Club with John Cannon Homes. Leading the team of real estate experts is Cheryl Loeffler, one of the area’s perennial top producers. Signature Sotheby’s International Realty’s onsite presence has undoubtedly been a catalyst in the recent sales activity in the community. Since arriving at The Founders Club in late summer, nearly 20 sales have taken place. If you, your friends or family members have interest in purchasing property in The Founders Club or beyond, please stop by the Sales Gallery at the entrance to the community. A Signature Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate will be happy to meet with you. You can reach an associate at 941.378.0900 or info@thefoundersclub.com.
Fruitville Road Construction Underway
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You have undoubtedly noticed the significant road improvement project underway just before The Founders Club’s gates. Fruitville Road is being widened to four lanes, making access to downtown, beaches and the I-75 corridor even easier. The project is expected to be completed next year, with bike lanes, walking paths, landscaping improvements and medians.
While there has been a surge in move-in ready homes in The Founders Club, there are still a few great buys left. With all-time low home site prices and construction costs, building your dream home has never been more attractive. Our Builders are designing fresh product to reflect the lifestyles of today’s market and also working with individuals on fully custom designs. A Signature Sotheby’s International Realty agent would be happy to discuss your property interest with you or bring you up to speed on the latest community developments in The Founders Club. Please call or stop by the Sales Gallery to see how we can help you find your perfect property.
Lee Wetherington Homes Offers Value Priced New Homes
Lee Wetherington Homes has unveiled new home models and pricing available for immediate construction in The Founders Club. These residences, priced from the $600,000s, are Green Build Certified, include Hurricane Protection Packages compliant with new Sarasota County construction codes, $80,000 pool packages and more. For information about building a Lee Wetherington Home in The Founders Club, please contact a Signature Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate at the Sales Gallery. Palazzo - 3,295 square feet - $673,500 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath, Gathering & Living Rooms, Outdoor Living, 2nd Story Retreat, 3 Car Courtyard Garage BellaMar - 3,431 square feet - $677,000 4 Bed, 4 Bath, Gathering & Living Rooms, Study, Outdoor Living, 2nd Story Retreat w/Veranda, 3 Car Courtyard Garage Cellara - 3,612 square feet - $746,100 4 Bed, 4 Bath, Bonus/Study, Den, Gathering & Grand Rooms, Outdoor Living, 3 Car Courtyard Garage Pinehurst - 3,516 square feet - $744,000 4 Bed, 3 Bath, Gathering & Grand Rooms, Leisure Room, Den, Outdoor Living, 3 Car Courtyard Garage Pinehurst - 4,144 square feet - $825,700 5 Bed, 4 Bath, Gathering & Grand Rooms, Study, Den, Outdoor Living, 2nd Story Retreat w/Veranda, 3 Car Courtyard Garage
Community News Todd Johnston Homes Completes New Turnberry Model Signature Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to present its latest exclusive listing, Todd Johnston Homes’ Turnberry Estate model. The 5,056 square foot residence on one living level features a Low-Country architectural style and uncompromised detail and appointments. The Turnberry is located on the 11th tee, with a dramatic vista of golf course, nature preserve and lake. Todd Johnston Homes are offering this exquisite residence for $1,590,000. If you would like more information about the Turnberry or to schedule an appointment to view the model, please contact a Signature Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate at the Sales Gallery. John Cannon Homes’ Elanora
Magnolia Golf Cottage and John Cannon Homes Elanora Sell, Set Market in Community
The Magnolia Golf Cottage and John Cannon’s Elanora models sold this fall setting the high watermarks in terms of pricing and the resilience of the ultra luxury market. The Magnolia is a 3,998 square feet residence centered on a breathtaking courtyard with pool and guest cabana. The Golf Cottages are the only maintenance-free homes in the community, located directly on the 10th hole and only steps from the clubhouse. The Elanora is a Best Overall winner in the Parade of Homes and one of the most sought after designs by John Cannon Homes. The model is 6,138 square feet all on one level with some of the most tasteful décor and high attention to detail in the area. Located on the seventh fairway, this residence has one of the most striking vistas in the community. With construction costs at all time lows, John Cannon can reproduce this home with custom design elements to suit your needs from the mid $1 millions. Please contact a Signature Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate for information about the Jasmine Golf Cottage or building a customized Elanora.
Today Show, Corcoran Name Sarasota Top Ten City for Real Estate On October 6, Barbara Corcoran, nationally recognized real estate expert, named Sarasota as a Top Ten city in which to purchase real estate. Sarasota was the first city on the list she presented to Al Roker and the Today Show. Sarasota earned the top spot due to its great values, beaches and sophisticated cultural amenities. The market has recognized the great value in The Founders Club and properties in all price points are moving quickly. Please see one of Signature Sotheby’s International Realty onsite agents to see how you can take advantage of great values in The Founders Club and beyond.
Extraordinary Incentives on Last Remaining Golf Cottage - The Jasmine
Generous Year End Incentives on Jasmine Cottage The Developer is able to offer unprecedented incentives on its Jasmine Golf Cottage for year-end buyers. The Jasmine is the only move-in ready Golf Cottage available. This residence is the most exquisite and finely detailed custom home in Sarasota. And with the extraordinary, one-time incentives available, the Jasmine represents the finest value in The Founders Club and beyond. Do not miss the opportunity to own this exclusive, maintenance-free residence.
The Sales Gallery (941) 378-0900 • Toll-Free: (866) 508-0900 Email: info@thefoundersclub.com www.thefoundersclub.com
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