Unit 2 May Events
BK Koch
On May 12, 19 residents joined together at El Charro for their Sunday Brunch. I was pleasantly surprised to see so many from our side of Unit Two; i.e., Walt and Bevin Wagner, Bill Summers, BK Koch, Frank Michela, Molly Jones, Tom and Carol Baltrus, George and JoAnna Gundloch, Mark and Ivah Randall, and Larry and Patty Field. However, Carol and Larry Jones, Karen and Greg Adams proudly represented the Desert Star side, as did Jerry and Danna Koelling. I had the Huevos Rancheros but I was really eyeing Patty Field’s Basic breakfast. Along with the breakfast was a table of pastries where we chose as many as we wanted. Little Miss Molly Jones had the chicken tortilla soup and she said it was the best she had ever had! It did look good–lots of shredded chicken!
On May 21, Unit 2 Happy Hour had about 16 residents come and go. We’re missing those Snowbirds but we all stillhad a great time. Patty Field won the Lottery even though Jack Easkin came running over to buy tickets with hopes of winning again. Next Unit 2 Happy Hour at the Agave is on June 18, 3:30 to 6 p.m. Don’t forget it is Hamburger night but the cobb salads look good too! Hope to see ya there!
Unit 8A Never Give Up… on the Weather and Another Fun Time
Michelle Kouri
What a difference 22 days can make!
In March, our Unit 8A’s outdoor activities were “entertained” with non-stop rain. But that didn’t stop residents from enjoying the event. Unit 8A’s appetizer party, hosted by Chris Watkins, was once again a wonderful success, drawing an enthusiastic crowd. Her home offered stunning views of the golf course and mountains, along with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, all complemented by an impressive spread of appetizers and desserts—some worthy of a James Beard Award. Unlike the weather during our last Unit event, the conditions this time were nothing short of spectacular.
Fifty residents filled Chris’s home and patio with laughter, lively conversation, and plenty of delicious and creative food, continuing what has quickly become a cherished tradition in Unit 8A. The evening also included heartfelt farewells to a few departing snowbirds, many of whom were likely wishing they could extend their stay to enjoy more events and the unusually comfortable Spring temperatures.
Unit Nine Hosts Successful Annual Chili Dinner
Scott Baker
The savory scent of simmering spices filled the air on Tuesday evening as Unit Nine residents gathered for the community’s much-anticipated Annual Chili Dinner. Held on May 29 at the Activity Center, the event drew a crowd of 48 neighbors eager to sample a variety of homemade chili recipes and enjoy a night of good food and great company.
This year’s dinner featured an impressive lineup of six different chilies, crafted by residents using a mix of chicken and beef. From mild and comforting to bold and fiery, the range of spice levels offered something for every palate.
In addition to the star of the evening, attendees enjoyed fresh salad and an assortment of crackers to complement their chili bowls. The meal concluded on a sweet note with two generously sized cakes—one rich chocolate and one classic vanilla—ensuring no guest left hungry.
Funded by Unit Nine’s membership dues, the annual event continues to be a highlight on the community calendar. Organizers thanked all the volunteers who contributed their time, talent, and taste buds to make the evening a success.
With full bellies and warm hearts, residents left already looking forward to next year’s chili showdown.
Cool Nights and Great Neighbors: Units 15 and 17 Block Party a Hit
Residents of SaddleBrooke Units 15 and 17 came together in April for a lively and memorable neighborhood block party that brought connection, laughter, and great food right to the cul-de-sac.
Approximately 125 neighbors gathered to enjoy an evening filled with fellowship and fun. The highlight for many was the presence of the Flaming Heart BBQ food truck, which served up a delicious spread that kept everyone coming back for more. From savory bites to hearty portions, the food was a hit and set the tone for a relaxed, community-centered evening.
Providing the soundtrack for the night, DJ JD French kept the energy just right with a mix of crowd-pleasing songs that spanned generations. The music struck a perfect balance, easygoing enough for conversation, yet upbeat enough to draw a few residents onto the pavement for some dancing. As the evening went on, smiles and laughter could be seen across the crowd.
Adding a little extra excitement, the 50/50 raffle gave attendees a chance to test their luck, with Jim Wilson walking away the winner of a $125 prize.
The cool April temperatures made for a comfortable setting, perfectly complementing the laid-back atmosphere and “cool” selection of songs. Altogether, the event created a welcoming space for neighbors to connect, unwind, and celebrate their community.
By all accounts, the SaddleBrooke Units 15 and 17 block party was a resounding success, one that residents won’t soon forget and are already looking forward to repeating in the future.
Carol and Scott Whiting, the hosts.
Unit 21 Celebrates Cinco de Mayo in Style
Barbara Donaldson
Around 70 Unit 21 residents spent a spectacular evening on Sunday, May 3, celebrating Cinco de Mayo entertained by Pueblo High School’s Mariachi Aztlán and enjoying a dinner catered by Molonito’s.
The annual event, now in its 15th year, is held in the backyard of Al and Midge Mollenkopf. Scott and Carol Whiting organize the event which includes scheduling the band, hiring the caterer, and recruiting over a dozen volunteers who do everything from A/V set up and serving the food to donation collection.
The highlight of the evening was a dazzling performance by award-winning Mariachi Aztlán de Pueblo High School. The students range in age from 14 to 18 years old. In addition to being accomplished musicians, they all maintain a high level of academic achievement. John Contreras, the band’s director for 24 years, conducts and arranges the music. The group was hot off their first-place win at the Tucson International Mariachi Conference that weekend, where they participated with nearly 50 different mariachi bands. The students are exceptional singers as well as musicians, playing violin, trumpet, harp, guitar and two guitar-like instruments specific to mariachi called the vihuela and the guitarrón. Even though they have played with some amazing artists, they always seem to find time to come and see us every year, and we are grateful.
Cinco de Mayo Street Party—Unit 25
Ron Mazurek
It was all “Viva Mexico” on the Fifth of May in Unit 25 as we blocked off the street and celebrated in great fashion. Norm and Lisa Hall planned and executed a terrific party that featured tacos with all the toppings and beans, desserts, soft drinks, beer and a very popular margarita stand! Bill Rigg set up his music equipment in the driveway to provide the background vibe. Even the weather cooperated by being cooler than normal with a nice breeze. Besides the music and lively conversation, participants were able to engage in some street games that Norm and Lisa set up. Otti Axen was the big winner of the 50/50 drawing; she promptly donated her $168 in winnings back to the hosts to help defray costs, exhibiting true neighborly spirit! The season rolls on with planned Dine-a-Round and Appetizer Parties on the calendar!
Unit 28 Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Joyce Wainscott
Unit 28 once again put on its party face to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 5. The revelry began at Marji Fey’s home, where guests enjoyed a festive spread of appetizers perfectly suited to the occasion. From guacamole and tacos to sashimi, the delicious fare was a hit with everyone. Topped off with margaritas crafted by one of our own talented residents—apparently with a very generous hand—the evening began with lively conversation, plenty of laughter, and appreciation for the spectacular view from Marji’s patio.
The group of about 30 Unit 28 residents then moved to the home of Beth and John Vincent, where photo opportunities with cutout photo boards and Mexican-themed costumes brought out everyone’s playful side. Some guests looked surprisingly comfortable in sombreros, while others may be hoping the photos never surface. The laughter continued as guests enjoyed an array of beautiful desserts along with both red and white wine sangrias.
It was a fun evening celebrating our neighbors to the south and, just as importantly, the warm hospitality and camaraderie of the people in our unit. By the end of the night, everyone agreed that Unit 28 is a wonderful social community filled with fun, friendly people who never seem to need much of an excuse to celebrate together.
Unit 29
Debbie McGeehan
Sandy Seppala organized another memorable happy hour with her team of helpers on Monday, May 18. You can count on everything working out perfectly with Sandy—even the weather! It was held on the tennis patio, but all day it was extremely windy. Well, by 5 o’clock the wind died and it was a gorgeous night enjoyed by all!
Sandy always sets the atmosphere with beautiful decorations and this event was no different! The tables had centerpieces of candles and flowers in a patriotic theme. The volunteers who assisted with the set up were Dave Carrano, Lynne Austin, Jack and Brooke McIntyre, and Rod and Francine Mundy. We have enthusiastic volunteers always willing to help!
Brooke and Lynne held a 50/50 raffle. Rod Mundy was the lucky winner going home with $68.! Maybe he’ll share it with his wife Francine and take her out for a treat.
We were able to meet two new homeowners from Ashland, Oregon–Julie Gjovik who has a mother living in Saddlebrooke, and her partner Jackie Wilda. They are happy to be here enjoying our amazing community.
The food selections were excellent which included various deviled eggs, gyoza, bacon and pineapple wrapped water chestnuts, chicken nuggets and various dips. Our unit has the best bakers and who doesn’t enjoy a good dessert? We had cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries, chocolate swirled pistachio cake and chocolate cookies. Our two hour happy hour lasted until the very end which is always a positive sign of a good time for all 30 people!
Last Night
Mike Oberski
Like a good neighbaaa—A small section of Unit 43 neighbaaa’s, I mean neighbors, got together for a block party to meet each other including our new neighbors who just moved in and a few of our snowbirds who are leaving shortly. Each brought an appetizer dish. We were so blessed that the wind and rain did not come while we were at the end of our cul-de-sac on Desert Sky Lane. The weather was perfect! It is wonderful to have good friends. Thank you Linda Oberski for organizing our little get–together.
Unit 45 is Always Horsing Around
Ann Lange
Everything came up roses on Saturday, May 2 at the Unit 45 Run for the Roses Block Party. Eighteen strong, stalwart, spirited thoroughbreds in their young prime running for the roses at Churchill Downs was nothing compared to almost 100 lively, ready-to-party, good time seekers in their senior prime running to Borago Court, careful not to spill their own creative cocktail concoctions and hanging on to their highfalutin hats. Waiting at the finish line was dancing to the music of Gary Roberts, dining from Kevin Risner’s Flaming Heart BBQ truck, games, prizes, gathering with friends, and ten times the roses in the garland draped over winner Golden Tempo.
The Unit 45 Social Committee of eight wild and crazy women was on track for an event with the odds of drumming up a great deal of derby drollery running 100%. Kathleen Eaton organized and championed the event, assisted by Karen Schroeder. Kathleen and husband Dave provided the gathering spot and comfort station. Karen created magnificent table settings, party decor, and a trivia game. A horse is a horse, of course, of course, unless you’ve seen Karen’s handmade ponies. And, a rose is a rose is a rose, unless you’ve seen Robin Maxim’s welcome sign. Nancy Ostrom ran for the money beating her own revenue record selling 50-50 split lottery tickets. Unit 45 Social Committee workhorses Kathy Bomwell, Myla Hockelberg, Deborah Adinolfi and Ann Lange made hay as well. Let’s just say that it was another victory lap for those hard-working party mongers who just can’t say nay to an opportunity to organize a little neighborhood fun.
And the winners are: Rich Kadota and Sharon and Brian Kanz were lucky in the raffle lottery, and shared in the fortune at $125 each. SaddleBrooke savant Cheryl Rogers won the derby trivia tournament. Our hats off to Michele Ferris for placing first in the hat contest, determined by the magnitude of whistles, ooh la la’s, and cheers from the grandstands. She was stylin’ in a flowered ensemble, including a Dannon Yogurt label and a small Jim Beam bourbon bottle to reflect her favorite horse—Danon Bourbon.
Life at SaddleBrooke is a bed of roses where we are all winners, living with fun, friendship and gratitude. Our community will be here for each other for the long run. And you can bet the Unit 45 Social Committee will be working hard to provide plenty of horseplay to keep as much giddy in your giddy-up as possible.
The next Unit 45 event, which will be open to all Preserve residents, will be Boots and Bling, a western style event at Cadillac Chaparral on Tuesday, October 20.
Unit 46 May Appetizer Hosts Viv and Rich.
Unit 46 May Appetizer at Casa Errico
Denise Cashmore
The sign at the front door of Casa Errico read, “Come on in. Fine Vittles in the kitchen. Your Hosts, Viv and Rich.”
Fine vittles indeed! The appetizers did not disappoint, the view from the back patio was magnificent, and the weather was perfect.
Unit 46 already has two more appetizer parties lined up for June and July. Whether you are brand new to the neighborhood or a long-time resident, come join this welcoming group of neighbors. Keep an eye out for our monthly Unit 46 emails with upcoming dates. Joining the fun is easy:
* RSVP to the email invitation.
* Bring a light appetizer to share.
* Enjoy a great night out with neighbors!
As a bonus, a 50/50 raffle is held at every party. Half of the cash goes directly to the winner, and the other half helps offset the cost of our end-of-the-year holiday party. Congratulations to this month’s lucky raffle winner, Cathie Sigelow!