Fiddlesticks Fall/Winter 2026 Piper

THE PIPER | FALL/WINTER 2026

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A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

“Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards.” Soren Kierkegard

In June, I traveled to Portland, Oregon, to visit our daughter Morgan. While there, we toured the city’s beautiful Japanese Garden, where I found a small but meaningful book, The Ikigai Journey, by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles. The book is a thoughtful reflection on purpose, fulfillment, and the choices that make life feel meaningful. Reading it while spending time with Morgan reminded me of a belief I hold closely—on any journey or adventure, the “with whom?” matters even more than the “where to?” Angela Amaro’s idea for this summer’s “Piper Challenge” captured that same spirit. The beaming smiles in the photos said everything. More than a few members shared that they were excited to take a picture, only to realize they had forgotten the Piper magazine or hat they wanted to include—and then had to run back to the car or room to get it. Wherever members were in the world—and they were all over—they took the time to send photos back to Angela, often with warm wishes for friends here in Fort Myers. Some were traveling with family. Others were enjoying time with friends. Many were simply thinking of the Fiddlesticks community from afar. Together, those moments turned a fun summer challenge into something more meaningful. They connected people with one another, creating warmth, sparking pride, and strengthening the sense of community that makes Fiddlesticks special. You have probably heard the saying, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” I did not set out on a perfectly planned path leading to club management. In some ways, I arrived here through a series of unexpected turns. I consider myself unbelievably fortunate to do work that I love. In many ways, this work reflects the idea of ikigai, often translated as “that which makes life worth living.” It is difficult to put into words, but facing a new challenge is something Merry and I have always embraced together. For us, change and uncertainty tend to bring excitement rather than anxiety. The adventure, the journey, and—most important—the people you share it with are what make the experience rewarding. It certainly does not feel like it, but two years ago last week, Merry and I left Santa Fe, New Mexico, to begin our new adventure with Fiddlesticks. It has been challenging, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Best of all, it still does not feel like work. Thank you for your help, your support, and the spirit you bring to this community. Enjoy the journey. All the best, Al Antonez, CCM, CCE General Manager/Executive Vice President

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10/27/26 10:06 AM