Unit Two April Events

BK Koch

On April 16, 26 residents overtook the majority of the Agave for our “Third Thursday” happy hour to wish the snowbirds a fond farewell for the summer. We look forward to having them return. We do like those raffles and Paul and Laurie Duxbury took home a whopping $30. I saw a lot of Cobb Salad vs Hamburgers being devoured. Next time, I will have to try it as it looked so delicious. Lots of conversations and visiting with friends/residents at the various tables. Next third Thursday happy hour will be on May 21. Hope to see ya there!

On April 22, we only had four residents from unit two for our luncheon (Patty Field, Ivah Randall, BK Koch, and Myrna Kutchera) and one visitor (Tammy Brown). Besides the delicious food at Michelangelo’s, we had a leisurely good time getting to know each other better. Myrna has been a unit two resident for over 20 years. I have known and been friends with Patty, Ivah, and Tammy for over 10 years, so we had lots to talk about. As a side note to our unit two ladies for our luncheons, if you would like to bring a BFF or two who is not a unit two resident, please don’t hesitate to extend an invitation for them to join you. Makes for good conversation and knowing our SaddleBrooke neighbors better. The next luncheon is scheduled for June 12. Location to be determined!

Unit Two Happy Hour

BK Koch

What a turnout and I missed it! On March 19, there were approximately 30 residents at our “third Thursday” happy hour at the Agave. Conversation was flowing and a jolly good time was had. This is amazing since St. Patrick’s Day celebration was just getting over. Luckily, Ms. Ivah Randle was there to take the photos. John Easkin, a visitor, won the raffle. We do like those raffles. The next happy hour will be on April 16 as we bid adieu to our snowbirds so everyone can come and send them off in style. They will definitely be missed.

See ya next time!

Unit Unit: On Pi, Partying, and Pack Rats

Christianne Dettmann

Unit two’s nerdy neighbors (said with utmost affection) came to the March 14 Pi Day party recognizing the value of pi (3.1416…). After all, it stood prominently in both the date (3.14) and the start time (16:00 hours) of this math-inspired mixer. Everyone else came recognizing the value of pi: pizza pi, apple pi, pot pi, shepherd’s pi, pi-neapple, pi-ckles, pi-erogies—it promised a profuse potpourri of possibilities!

Over two dozen unit two attendees invoked their inner intellectuals and contributed creative, pi-themed appetizers to this afternoon event. Selections—both savory and sweet—included two types of shepherd’s pi, a salmon quiche (in a pi pan), various cheesy concoctions (also in pi pans), two different Dutch apple pies, two different Arizona lemon pies, a cherry pi, a chocolate crème pi, a pecan pi, and even Moon Pies (for those familiar with this tasty treat from Tennessee). Lest anyone forget the significance of the celebration, a long banner decorated the room displaying the actual number of pi to over 20 digits*!

Special guests Tom Dowell (SaddleBrooke naturalist) and Bob and Prudy Bowers (local amateur ornithologists) highlighted this celebration of all things round by giving a talk about Great Horned Owls, which happen to be nesting just ‘round the corner (also in Unit two). Together, they shared a wealth of fascinating facts, photos, and stories of similar SaddleBrooke owls from years past, plus other curious desert creatures. In particular, partygoers learned these owls tend to devour one of the more perturbing neighborhood pests we commonly call “pack rats” (technically “white-throated wood rats,” or Neotoma albigula).

Ironically, they pointed out, attempts to rid our homes of these curious (and chew-happy) critters often have the opposite result, particularly if rat poison is used. Here’s just one reason why: owls reproduce annually, whereas pack rats reproduce every two months. Poisoned pack rats can kill owls and their babies when ingested. Sadly, this was the fate of a Great Horned Owl and her brood when they nested several years ago just outside the large window overlooking the Catalina mountains at The Vistas in SaddleBrooke One. Further, they shared, Great Horned Owls can eat a pack rat per day, which means just one poisoned pack rat—when eaten by an owl—potentially leaves hundreds, if not thousands, of other pack rats to roam free! Even those partygoers who didn’t love math were quick to see the need for protecting these beloved owls from rat poison and using alternative pest control methods instead.

Tom volunteers as a naturalist both in SaddleBrooke and at Catalina State Park. As noted in the SaddleBrooke One Fitness Center, he can be reached at 520-820-1997 in case of wildlife emergencies (such as injured or nuisance snakes, raptors, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, javelina, packrats, etc.). Bob and Prudy have traveled extensively for numerous birding trips and he writes monthly articles for the local SaddleBrooke papers, which you can also find at www.birdingthebrookeandbeyond.com. Unit two was definitely “hap-pi” to have them all stop by!

(*3.14159265358979323846…for the curious!).

Unit Four Block Party Barbeque

Peg Asmus

Bogie Court was alive with mouthwatering barbeque, live music and animated conversation on the afternoon of March 15. Close to 100 unit four residents and friends enjoyed food truck fare from Flaming Heart BBQ and the music of popular local musician Sean Lewis, who extended his performance at the crowd’s insistence. It was the largest Unit 4 gathering in years and based on positive feedback, it may become an annual event.

The 50:50 raffle raised $237 for future events thanks to Herman Haenert who generously donated his winnings back to the unit. Special thanks go to social committee chair Susan Morrison Cluley and her team who elevated the well-planned event with barbeque themed touches.

Stay tuned for more Unit 4 fun in the coming months!

Unit 4 Putting Contest and Happy Hour

Connie Kotke

On Sunday, April 19, nearly 40 residents from SaddleBrooke One, Unit 4, enjoyed a putting contest and happy hour on the patio at the RoadRunner Grill. Putting has become a repetitive activity for our unit, and we were grateful for the glorious weather with some light cloud cover and a slight breeze.

Connie Kotke, unit representative, and Tom Cluley, contest coordinator, started us off with some guidelines and words of encouragement for our randomly-mixed teams. Some of the holes were particularly challenging, while others were “short and sweet” to give everyone a chance for a hole in one. We had three cash prize winners with a low score of 39: Dick Ashwood, Dave Earnest, and Steve Kotke. In addition, Lisa Bower won a cash prize for turning in two holes-in-one.

After putting, players were joined by a few more Unit 4 residents as we gathered on the RoadRunner patio for great conversation, refreshing beverages and some mighty good choices from the grill menu. We certainly gave the pizza chef a run for his money! Dick Ashwood was the lucky recipient of the 50/50 raffle; he generously returned his winnings back to the unit bank account.

Many thanks to our Unit 4 social committee for their time and effort in planning this and so many other events throughout the year: Susan Morrison Cluley (chair), LaVonne Ashwood, Linda Holt, Peg Asmus, Debbie Bornmann, Janet Robinson, and Lisa Bower. We also appreciate other helpers who assisted with organizing teams and setting up the course.

As we bid farewell to our snowbird neighbors, we turn our attention to our next event: a ladies luncheon later this summer or early fall.

How to Make It Rain in SaddleBrooke—Plan an Outdoor Unit Party!

Michelle Kouri

Who said it only rains five days a year in SaddleBrooke? Maybe it was just an early April Fool’s joke?

The Unit 8A social committee had everything lined up for a perfect early-evening outdoor gathering on March 31—corn hole games, great company, and delicious food from Flaming Heart BBQ. With 101 enthusiastic guests who RSVP’d, neighbors began arriving in their golf carts, ready for a fun-filled evening.

And then—it rained. And rained. And rained some more.

But did that stop Unit 8A residents? Not a chance.

At least 50 hearty souls stayed, many dining in their golf carts with a little wine, while others embraced the downpour—walking around, laughing, and visiting with friends. In a wonderful show of community spirit, nearby neighbors generously opened their garage doors, offering shelter while everyone shared in the disbelief of the moment. Some even kept the games going, tossing soaked bean bags in a determined round of corn hole.

Guests brought dozens of food items that were taken to local shelters. For those who donated, tickets were given for door prizes that were awarded for an incredible show of generosity by all.

The food was excellent, and homemade cookies from one of the committee members were a sweet highlight. Though the tables were soaked, sympathetic neighbors brought out beach towels to dry them off, proving once again that nothing could dampen the mood.

And as if on cue, the evening ended with a beautiful rainbow over the mountains—a perfect finale to a truly unforgettable event.

A big thank-you and shout-out to everyone who made the evening special: our very own Golder Ranch fire personnel who joined us for dinner; the event planners; food and monetary donors; neighbors who offered shelter; and all those who embraced getting a little (or very!) wet while having a great time.

SaddleBrooke Unit 15

Kelli Beasley

Residents and friends of Unit 15 in the SaddleBrooke community generously came together to support The Salvation Army Tucson’s Community Easter Brunch on April 4. Their thoughtful donation of 33 beautifully filled Easter baskets, along with additional monetary contributions, helped make the celebration extra special for families in need.

These baskets were distributed by the Easter Bunny to children in our community, bringing joy, excitement, and smiles to so many young faces. This heartfelt act of kindness reflects the true spirit of the season and the power of community coming together to care for one another.

Thank you to everyone in Unit 15 for your generosity and compassionate hearts!

Unit 21 Poker Run 2026

Dana Eckhardt

Only three hands were worthy of winning the annual Unit 21 Poker Run that was held on April 9. 64 neighbors participated in this adventure, which entails collecting seven cards unseen at seven different homes then proceeding to the casino to find out which five cards are the best poker hand. The winners were: 1st place Lori McNeil, 2nd place Alan Haga, and 3rd place Brian Broda. Thanks to all the dealers who went above and beyond to entertain and delight the players, Christy Benton and John Totemeier, Barbie Donaldson, Mary and Ted Duma, Nachel Felske, Carol and Alan Haga, Mary and Jim Floerke, and Carol and Scott Whitting. The meal was a taco bar with all the fixings, plus cupcake cakes, which took place at the casino, Dana Eckhardt’s home. Besides the three poker winners there were also raffle prizes too. A big thank you to those that put in extra effort to make this event fabulous, Alisa and Glenn Fenstermacher, Cindy Tressel, Dede VanBooven and Wayne Rizzo. Great fun had by all, see you next year!

Feeling Green at Unit 25

Ron Mazurek

The folks at unit 25 got all fired up on St. Paddy’s Day and met up at the home of Lisa Michaud to drink until they turned green. Well, maybe not that dramatic, but Lisa did whip up some fine green colored ice cream with mixers, with and without green liquor! Not stopping there, she even served up green popcorn! Even with the unseasonable heat, the house and backyard filled up with enthusiastic neighbors who genuinely enjoyed the lively conversation that flows as well as the refreshments. Before the party broke up, Lisa Hall had the luck of the Irish with the winning ticket in the 50/50 drawing and took home $39—not a bad deal! Now unit 25 looks ahead to April and the next unit dine–around event!

Unit 27 Activities

Sue Case

March and April have been busy months for unit 27 activities, which is not surprising; however, what has been surprising is the weather, which has seen much warmer temperatures than usual. As a result, we have been treated to unusually lush foliage and very active wildlife around our unit and beyond. As an aside, it was charmingly surprising to see the quail flirting on the fences as they prepared to make their nests for the next generation.

Deb and Dennis Stauffer hosted the snack and chat on Saturday, March 21. Due to other spring activities many of the attendees arrived later than the usual start time of 5:30 p.m.; however, the food was good and plentiful and was heartily consumed! As one attendee noted, at the beginning “the women sat inside and the men sat outside—the usual.” However, after dark the patio and back yard were packed. Unit 27 always invites the “alums,” who

have moved, to join the unit activities. Jane Zielske and husband, Greg, have moved to another part of SaddleBrooke, but Jane joined the fun at this snack and chat. Thanks, Deb and Dennis for hosting this fun event.

Janet and Doug Drake hosted the snack and chat on Saturday, April 11. The weather was warm and attendees comfortably sat both inside and out. Although attendance was rather sparse due to competing activities elsewhere, the conversations were enjoyable, perhaps due in part to the collective lower decibel level! Thanks, Janet and Doug for hosting.

Fira Stout plans and coordinates dine arounds for the unit. The March dinner was held on March 24 in the back room at Caffe Torino in Oro Valley. As evidence of the restaurant’s popularity, a very large number of unit diners crowded themselves into an area that, as became apparent, was relatively small. As always, the food was good; and the staff gamely seated people, took orders, and brought the food and drinks to the noisy group. Kudos to the staff; and thank you to Fira, who brought her granddaughter to the event.

The April dine around, on the patio at Harvest Restaurant, was not as well attended as the previous month’s event; however, the weather was optimal for outdoor dining, which made the experience very pleasant. Thanks again, Fira.

Finally, a shout out to Karen Erickson, who served as our unit 27 captain for the community outreach food drive. The communities of SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke Ranch collectively donated $157,650 in cash and approximately 14,000 pounds of food during the event. Thanks again, Karen!

Unit 28 Says Goodbye for the Summer to Our Snowbirds

Joyce Wainscott

Flexibility—and a healthy respect for Arizona heat—set the tone for a memorable evening as unit 28 gathered to send off its snowbirds. What was destined to be a charming street party pivoted gracefully (and gratefully) into an air-conditioned garage and home at Bob and Joyce Wainscott’s on South Skyline Drive when the weather decided to audition for mid-July.

Forty-seven residents turned out for the festivities, enjoying a potluck that ranged from “family favorite” to “what is in this and can I get the recipe?” Conversation flowed easily, as did the wine, while guests took full advantage of the evening’s entertainment—most notably the “sing-along with the band” portion, where confidence often outpaced pitch, but never enthusiasm.

For the more daring, hula hoops made an appearance. Results varied. Some rediscovered long-lost talents; others confirmed those talents were, in fact, best left in the past. Either way, it was a crowd favorite.

A special drawing honored our departing snowbirds, with Janine Sullivan, Kris Rudin, and Sue Orth each receiving gifts courtesy of the unit social committee—sending them off with a little something extra besides our collective envy of cooler summer temperatures.

SaddleBrooke musicians Steve Skeen, Cal Salisbury, and Doug Dogniere kept the evening lively with an eclectic mix of tunes, while Marilyn Ginther elevated the performance with harmonies—and a yodel that ensured no one within a three-house radius missed the party. Before long, the crowd joined in, dancing commenced (interpretations varied widely), and the line between audience and performers happily disappeared.

By evening’s end, it was clear: this was more than just a gathering. It was a celebration of friendship, laughter, and the kind of community that knows how to adapt, show-up, and have a very good time doing it.

Safe travels to our snowbirds as they head off for the summer. We’ll keep things warm here—perhaps a little too warm—and look forward to welcoming you back in the fall.

Honoring a Friend, Painting for the Future

Jennifer Citron

Friends and neighbors of Unit 31’s hackers and whackers ladies’ golf group gathered to honor their former member and dear friend Linda Devoe who recently passed away from cancer. The event was organized by the golf group’s coordinator Deb Andrews and the hostess, Cheri Allen. Over a dozen ladies gathered on the Allens’ shady back patio to paint, sip, and raise funds for First Tee Tucson in Linda’s memory while others who couldn’t attend and silent auction proceeds added to the total. When Judy McDermott, executive director of First Tee Tucson arrived to meet with the group, she was presented with nearly $1,000 in donations!

“This is enough to fund one young participant in our First Tee program,” McDermott said. “Not only do they have fun, but they gain confidence, life skills, and enjoy a safe activity.”

Unit 36 Yellow and Orange Host a BBQ Food Truck

Marilee Johnson

Unit 36 orange and yellow combined forces to host a BBQ food truck in the cul-de-sac located on East Valley Crest Court on April 12. In spite of the windy conditions, a great time was had by all. The food provided by Flaming Heart BBQ was delicious, Patrick, the DJ provided perfect Boomer music and the camaraderie resulted in new friendships. Many residents pulled together by setting up tables, arranging to dispose of the garbage, participating in the 50/50 raffle, and neighbors graciously allowing the cul-de-sac to be available in order to make this event a huge success. Congratulations to both unit social committees on a job well done. Good–bye to our snowbirds. See you in the fall for more fun.

Unit 44A First Putting Party a Hole-in-One Success

Claudia Ferguson

On March 27, unit 44A neighbors and friends gathered for their first putting party. A mix of golfers and non-golfers participated in the fun event which was organized by Suzy Strauss, Grant Bryden, and the social committee.

About 30 neighbors met at the MountainView putting green for an afternoon of friendly competition and fun. Laughter and lighthearted banter echoed across the green as teams made their way around the 18 holes. Some of the holes looked easy but were a little challenging. Neighbors celebrated great shots and shrugged off the misses.

Keith Schiller was the most valuable player for his team by getting four holes–in-one at this event!

Just as the putting contest was ending, a group of deer wandered on the green, giving everyone an unexpected moment to enjoy.

Following the putting, the group headed to the MVBG for dinner and prizes and shared more stories from the day. Prizes were awarded for coolest golf attire, best team score, most honest team score, most holes-in-one, and other individual scores.

With strong turnout and enthusiastic feedback, the Putting Party was a clear success. A big thank you to all the organizers. This event is already set to become a favorite new annual tradition in unit 44A.

Unit 46 Putts by the Light of the Moon

Denise Cashmore

Back by popular demand, social chairs Lori Bolme and Marian Griebenow, “teed up” a Moonlight Putting event on April 2. Neighbors first gathered for appetizers at Joan Brookhart’s home. And then, at dusk, it was off to the MountainView putting green. Although the full moon was a bit obscured by the cloudy night, the event got “glowing” reviews by its 30-plus participants. Foursomes putted (and joked) around the 18-hole course, sporting glow necklaces while navigating the illuminated green—though reading the breaks became a challenge as the light faded. There were some holes–in-one, but Jeff Cashmore and Scott Davis found the bottom of the cup on the two “$$holes” that paid out. And, Team Nelson and Davis topped the leaderboard with the lowest score. A big shout-out to all who helped make this a great success!