By Paula Sscheb, Director of Sports
If you were among the over 100 members who attended the men’s tennis exhibition featuring CJ Weber, our Director of Instruction, and three of his former FGCU collegiate players, you were treated to an unforgettable evening. Not just of top-tier tennis, but also of incredible live music!
A huge thank you to the Timeless Travelers, who brought down the house with their performance, all thanks to Jeff Sutton, Bonita Bay Club member since 2011, who spearheaded the efforts to make an appearance at an event a reality. Oh, What a Great Night It Was!
This event generated more member compliments than any other this season, and it’s no surprise—the band was a massive hit! How did this incredible night come together?
The Story Behind the Band
For those who know Jeff, you know he’s all about fun. Music is his passion, even more than tennis, though tennis holds a close second). Jeff plays piano, banjo, trumpet, little guitar and bass! As Jeff would tell the story, many years ago he wanted to play in a band. He had a “real job”, but this was just for fun. Karma took over from there. He kept running into talented musicians who he calls his series of “intersecting circles”. Soon enough, a band was born.
The band itself has been playing together, in some form, for 40 years, mainly up north in Maine, where their first gig dates back to 1984! Over time their performances expanded to more stages, more instruments, and more musicians. However, when Jeff and his wife Kim made the move to Florida, Jeff didn’t want it to end. He had another dream.
They found their perfect house and after the addition of a few rooms and a covered area on the lanai, Jeff pitched the idea: What if the band came to Florida a couple of times a year? The rest, as they say, is history. Kim is now the band’s biggest groupie and the Timeless Travelers have become like family.
Bringing the Band to Bonita Bay Club
When I floated the idea of having the band perform at an event, Jeff suggested I hear them first. So, I got a coveted invitation to a Sutton Sunday Jam Session, and what a fantastic afternoon it was! I got to witness two new additions to the band, Dennis Latuszek on bass and Renee Archambo on vocals. From the first note, I knew the band would be a perfect fit for an event.
The result? A phenomenal evening where our members enjoyed dancing and singing along to the music on Championship Court, after an impressive display of tennis. No one wanted the night to end!
They’ll Be Back!
Due to overwhelming demand, we’re thrilled to announce that the Timeless Travelers will return for a can’t miss event at our upcoming Bocce Night on Wednesday, April 9! Imagine bocce courts set up on the tennis courts, members can choose to play, relax, or dance the night away to incredible live music. Be sure to sign up!
