Esplanade Lifestyle - Northgate | Mar/Apr 2024

LIFESTYLE

Letter From the Lifestyle Team

MEGAN MICHAUX YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER

Happy Spring!

Welcome, dear Members, to the vibrant embrace of spring! As nature awakens with a burst of color and life, so too does our community flourish. In this edition, we celebrate the season of renewal, inviting you to join us in the warmth of shared stories, events, and the blossoming connections that make our community truly special.

As spring approaches, the familiar ritual of “springing forward” takes center stage. This annual event involves adjusting our clocks forward by one hour, marking the beginning of Daylight Saving Time on March 10. As we bid farewell to shorter days and welcome the lengthening daylight, the symbolic act not only alters our schedules, but also signals the imminent arrival of warmer weather and the vibrant renewal of nature. Springing forward serves as a collective nod to the changing seasons, inviting us to embrace the newfound energy and optimism that accompany the blossoming landscapes.

I am here to support and collaborate with you in making our community an even more vibrant and enriching place to call home. Your feedback and ideas are always valued, as together, we shape the tapestry of our shared experiences.

As you review the upcoming activities and events on the interactive calendar, please remember to register for any events and activities you would like to attend. This helps tremendously in ensuring that all activities are executed flawlessly and that everyone who signs up is accommodated.

Dwayne Heigh

YOUR COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGER

It is our distinct pleasure to introduce you to Dwayne Heigh, the esteemed Community Association Manager for Esplanade at Northgate. Hailing originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Dwayne’s journey into real estate began over two decades ago, inspired by witnessing his mother’s pivotal moment of purchasing her first home. This experience ignited a passion that initially leaned towards Law Enforcement, but ultimately paved the way for a remarkable career in real estate.

In 2005, Dwayne embarked on his real estate journey, swiftly establishing himself as a leader in property management in his hometown of Baltimore. Throughout the years, he garnered numerous accolades for his innate ability to lead, successfully managing over 3,500 multifamily units. His achievements include capturing 100% of tenant rents and consistently achieving full occupancy in the communities under his management.

Driven by a thirst for continual growth and learning, Dwayne sought new horizons. In 2016, he made the strategic move to Charlotte, where he continued his impactful work in the multifamily sector. Dwayne expanded his reach by obtaining real estate licenses in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. In 2020, his commendable efforts were spotlighted in the news when he played a pivotal role in saving a historic minority-owned grocery store from imminent demolition. Beyond the immediate impact, Dwayne recognizes that his work contributes to fostering economic equality, a cause he passionately champions. He takes pleasure in educating business owners on the inherent value of their properties.

While Dwayne is undoubtedly dedicated to his professional pursuits, he holds his family in the highest regard. His close bond with his family, particularly his four nieces, defines his daily work and underscores his commitment to leaving a legacy. Outside the realms of work and family, Dwayne finds joy in diverse interests. Whether it’s traveling, delving into literature, tuning into podcasts, exploring museums and plays, or honing his golfing skills, he approaches life with a spirit of curiosity and enthusiasm.

Saving the Monarch Butterfly

Taylor Morrison is proud to partner with the National Wildlife Federation, the nation’s largest and most trusted conservation organization

Through this partnership, Esplanade has taken the Monarch Pledge to help save the monarch butterfly by planting demonstration gardens, planting native milkweed and flowers, and educating Members about conservation. Taylor Morrison is proud to have more than 1,000 acres of National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat® in our open space and parks (including, but not limited to Esplanade communities) and have a number of successful monarch butterfly demonstrations gardens already completed. Visit nwf.org/ MayorsMonarchPledge/About/Taylor-Morrison to learn more!

Luxe & Luck

ESPLANADE'S CASINO NIGHT

SATURDAY, MAY 25

ESPLANADE AT NORTHGATE

7 - 10 P.M. | THE VENUE

INDULGE IN AN EVENING OF GLAMOUR AND ALLURE, OFFERING AN UNFORGETTABLE FUSION OF SOPHISTICATION AND ENTERTAINMENT.

Furry Friends

Meet Lizzie & Jasper

LOVED BY YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER, MEGAN MICHAUX

Lizzie is the epitome of sweetness in such a petite Yorkshire Terrier package. Her playful antics and sweet demeanor are complemented by a dash of spice, making every moment with her a delightful adventure. Even though sweet Lizzie is only three pounds, she’s small but mighty. She loves snuggling with her mama and has a weird obsession with socks.

Jasper is attached at the hip to Megan. Wherever she goes, he’s her shadow. He also loves his toys and is VERY protective of them. He’s such a sweetheart and has never met a stranger. He shows his love by giving a lot of face kisses.

WANT TO FEATURE YOUR PET?

Getting to Know You!

THE Members OF OUR Community ARE TRULY WHAT MAKE THIS A WONDERFUL PLACE TO LIVE.

In each magazine issue, we spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing Members we have living in Esplanade at Northgate. If you would like to be featured, please answer the questions below and send some fun photos to your Lifestyle Manager, Megan Michaux at Megan.Michaux@TeamEsplanade.com

1. What are your names and why did you choose Esplanade?

2. Are you a full-time Member? If not, where else do you spend your time? Where are you from?

3. What Lifestyle programs are you most interested in?

4. Also, tell us your hobbies.

5. Tell us about your family/pets and your current or past professions.

6. What is the best advice you've ever received or given?

7. Where is the most exciting place you've traveled to and what made it so memorable?

8. Tell us something about yourself that may surprise people.

Exclusive Concierge Offerings

Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We are excited to build and foster relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of one that would like to partner with Esplanade at Northgate, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.

PET SERVICES

CAMP BOW WOW

10% off all services (including grooming) and 5% off all products. Members are given the Wag Bag when they go under contract. 704-708-9663 campbowwow.com/matthews

HOUNDS TOWN USA

15% OFF Saturday Daycare only. Good at Indian Trail location. Members are given discount card at closing. 704-218-2100 houndstownusa.com

DRY CLEANING

COLLINS CLEANERS VALET SERVICE

Members receive FREE pickup and delivery service directly to their door. Services include dry cleaning, linens, laundry, alterations, shoes, and household items. Stop by the Sales Gallery for the sign-up sheet with the schedule and pricing list or sign up on their website.

704-398-1525

collinscleaners.com

THE TROON CARD

As a benefit of living in an Esplanade community, we are excited to share that current Esplanade Members receive 25% off standard Troon Card prices. The Troon Card is the ultimate way for golfers to experience the World of Troon at the best rates. More than 150 courses are participating in the program. Members can reserve tee times within three-days of their desired date of play and enjoy savings up to 50% off golf fees. Choose from state, region-specific, or national Troon Cards to unlock preferred rates at more than 150 golf courses worldwide. For a complete list of benefits, courses and rates, and to purchase your Troon Card today, visit www.troon.com/ product/troon-card-esplanade

WINDOW COVERINGS

CAROLINA SHUTTERS & BLINDS

Esplanade Members can choose from exclusive package discounts. Contact Nicole Evans-Lane for a free design consultation. When contacting Nicole, Members are asked to supply the offer code: AFFINITY 303. 704-840-8000 nicole@csandb.us carolinashutterandblinds.com

HOME SERVICES

QUANTUM SECURITY AND INNOVATIONS

Esplanade Members can choose from three EXCLUSIVE packages: Sonos Home Theater Package, Sonos Package, or Alula Security Package. Members who purchase an exclusive package will also receive a 10% discount on any additional purchase. To view QSI’s state-of-theart systems, visit the Model Homes or stop by the Sales Gallery for a brochure detailing these packages.

704-534-2468

HYDROSHIELD

ECO-FRIENDLY COATINGS

Hydroshield offers innovative surface protection that takes highmaintenance surfaces in home and transforms them from good to amazing. Their customers receive peace of mind that their surfaces will be easy-to-clean, stain resistant, and guaranteed to stay looking new. Call Noel and Carmen Torres to schedule an appointment for your free consultation.

704-909-9289

Recent Events

It’s a Wonderful Lifestyle SIGNATURE EVENT

Members gathered at The Venue with laughter and holiday cheer. From the delightful aroma of seasonal treats to the heartwarming melodies of carols, every detail contributed to a memorable celebration. Families gathered, creating lasting memories amidst the backdrop of yuletide decorations, making it a Wonderful Lifestyle event that embraced the true spirit of togetherness and merriment.

Craft Northgate VALENTINE’S DAY

Members gathered to create Valentine’s Day Wreaths. It was a celebration of imagination and the joy of crafting that left everyone with cherished handmade treasures and newfound friendships.

Wine Down WEDNESDAY

Members joined the Lifestyle team at our recent Wine Down Wednesday event where attendees reveled in the rich aromas and flavors of premium wines expertly paired with gourmet delights. Laughter echoed through The Venue as friends gathered to unwind midweek, creating unforgettable moments. The ambiance was warm, the wine was exceptional, and the company was delightful making it a Wednesday to remember. Cheers to another evening of pure enjoyment at our renowned Wine Down Wednesday!

Ladies of Northgate LUNCHEON

The Ladies of Northgate Luncheon brought together a dynamic group of accomplished women. Against a backdrop of sophistication, they engaged in inspiring conversations, fostering connections, and pure laughter.

WITH A TWIST Painting

FRIDAY, MARCH 22 | 7 P.M.

Painting with a Twist Studio, Indian Trail

Enjoy an evening painting with an expert paint instructor who will take you step by step into creating a work of art. The cost is $42 per participant. Snacks and beverages may be consumed while painting. Follow the link on our interactive website to register for your spot.

Upcoming Events

All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.

TECHNOLOGY 101 WITH MEGAN

Thursday, March 7 | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The Venue

Join your Lifestyle Manager for a Technology 101 session. Bring your laptop, iPad/tablet, or smartphone for any assistance needed working with these devices. She will also be available to help with any website questions. These will be drop-in sessions, so there is no need to make an appointment.

ONE BLOOD: BLOOD DRIVE

Saturday, March 9 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The Venue Entrance

Join us at our community blood drive sponsored by One Blood. All donors will receive a $20 eGift card, One Blood T-Shirt, and a Wellness Checkup. Check the community interactive calendar for this event and click the link to pre-register!

YAPPY HOUR:

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PHOTOSHOOTS

Thursday, March 14 | 4 p.m.

Bark Park

Gather with your furry friends for a St. Patrick’s Day photoshoot Strike a pose with your fur baby and leave with some puppy gold (dog treats).

ST. PATRICK’S DAY HAPPY HOUR

Sunday, March 17 | 12 - 2 p.m.

The Venue

Gather your friends and raise a glass to the luck of the Irish at the St. Patrick’s Day Happy Hour! Join us for a spirited celebration filled with good company, festive drinks, and the cheerful ambiance of St. Paddy’s Day.

CRAFT NORTHGATE: SPRING FLOWER POTS

Tuesday, March 19 | 10:30 a.m.

The Venue

Join your neighbors and embrace the vibrant spirit of spring with a delightful craft of painting flowerpots. Let your creativity bloom as you transform ordinary clay pots into whimsical masterpieces adorned with colorful flowers, cheerful patterns, or enchanting designs.

GAME NIGHT

Wednesday, March 20 | 6:30 p.m.

The Venue

Join your neighbors for a thrilling adult game night filled with laughter and friendly competition. From classic board games to risqué card games, it’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere. Let the games begin!

MOVIE NIGHT & POPCORN: SPONSORED BY BRIGHTSTAR CARE

Thursday, March 21 | 6 p.m.

The Venue Gathering Room

Experience the ultimate movie night at The Venue with your neighbors! Join us for an evening of cinematic delight as we gather to watch the latest blockbuster or a beloved classic. With comfy seating, tasty snacks, and great company, it’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy some quality time with the community. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect, relax, and enjoy the magic of the silver screen together! Drinks, popcorn, and snacks will be provided.

A LOOK AHEAD

Upcoming Events

All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.

PAINTING WITH A TWIST

Friday, March 22 | 7 p.m.

Painting with a Twist Studio | 6461 Old Monroe Road

Enjoy an evening at Painting with a Twist! We will meet at the studio here in Indian Trail, and spend the evening painting with an expert paint instructor who will take you step by step into creating a work of art. The cost will be $42 per participant. Snacks and beverages may be consumed while painting. Please follow the link on our interactive website event calendar to register for your spot using code “Fun.”

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

Wednesday, April 10 | 5:30 p.m.

The Venue

Enjoy a mid-week happy hour event with your neighbors. Bring your favorite beverage to enjoy and share with neighbors, while the Lifestyle team provides light bites for everyone to enjoy.

YAPPY HOUR: NATIONAL PET DAY

Thursday, April 11 | 12 p.m.

Bark Park

Gather with your furry friends for a dogtastic social event. It is a playdate for both pets and humans! Feel free to bring your favorite beverages to share and enjoy with fellow attendees.

Monthly Member Meetings

ESPLANADE 101

Wednesdays, March 20 & April 17

10 a.m. | Gathering Room

New Members can meet with the CAM and Lifestyle Manager to briefly discuss HOA and Lifestyle topics outlined in your Member Handbook. Come with your questions!

CRAFT NORTHGATE: KENTUCKY DERBY HATS

Tuesday, April 16 | 5 p.m.

The Venue Gathering Room

Join us in creating Kentucky Derby hats as a delightful craft that combines tradition and creativity. Start by selecting a wide-brimmed hat as your canvas. Dive into a spectrum of vibrant fabrics, ribbons, and feathers to adorn the hat, capturing the essence of Derby extravagance. Whether you opt for classic roses or unique thematic elements, infuse your personal flair into the design. Embrace the spirit of the Derby with elegance and style, crafting a hat that stands out in the crowd and embodies the timeless allure of this iconic event. More information about this event will be coming out soon via email blast.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Wednesdays, March 27 & April 24

10 a.m. | Gathering Room

Meet with your Community Association Manager in a relaxed and social setting to discuss the latest news surrounding the neighborhood.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION

Wednesdays, March 13 & April 10

10 a.m. | Gathering Room

Join your Lifestyle Manager for a relaxing and informative meeting. Find out what’s happening on the social scene. Bring your questions and suggestions.

Interest Groups & Social Clubs

Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today.

Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Your Lifestyle Manager will assist in coordinating when and where is available for your club or interest group to meet at the Sales Gallery. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining. To receive an application or for more information about creating a club or interest group, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out the current clubs below!

Current Clubs & Groups

BOOK CLUB

Tuesday, March 12 (Second Tuesday Monthly) | 2 p.m.

The Venue

Join the Book Club to discuss this month’s book, The Last Carolina Girl by Megan Church. Group leader Teresa Cole will be leading the discussion on this book. The book is available on Kindle, books.com (used and new), Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. To learn more about the Book Club or to join, please contact Teresa at cole3761@bellsouth.net or click the registration link on the interactive calendar of the Northgate website.

KNIGHTS OF NORTHGATE BREAKFAST

Tuesdays, March 12 & April 9 | 9 a.m.

The Americana Restaurant

Calling all Esplanade at Northgate men! Join your neighbors at The Bridge restaurant for some great food and even better conversation. See the website event calendar for the Club Leader details to register.

NORTHGATE WANDERERS LUNCH

Wednesday, March 6 | 12 p.m.

Meet at The Venue | Carpool to Optimist Hall

Join your fellow neighbors along with your Lifestyle Manager for lunch out in Charlotte. We will be meeting at The Venue to carpool then meet at Optimist Hall (1115 North Brevard Street, Charlotte).

NORTHGATE WANDERERS BOWLING

Wednesday, April 17 | 12 p.m.

Fox’s Bowling Alley

Join your fellow Members and Lifestyle Manager for a strikingly good time! Bowling as a group is the perfect way to enjoy some friendly competition, laughter, and even a bit of friendly banter. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time bowler, the experience promises fun for everyone. It’s a fantastic social activity that combines skill, teamwork, and a dash of friendly rivalry. So, lace up those bowling shoes and roll into a memorable group outing at the lanes!

THE LADIES OF NORTHGATE: PAINTING WITH A TWIST

Friday, March 22 | 7 p.m.

Painting with a Twist, Indian Trail

See the flyer on page 9 and the Upcoming Event listing on page 11 for more details on this fun event!

VETERANS GROUP COFFEE HOUSE SOCIAL

Thursdays, March 28 & April 25 | 9 - 11 a.m.

Waxhaw Baptist Church | 8213 Old Waxhaw Monroe Road

Group Leader David Hiza invites Northgate veterans to join him each month for an opportunity to make new friends, participate in raffle prize drawings, access resources, and enjoy the company of fellow veterans and Members. Please contact David at 704-562-6946 to register and arrange carpooling.

Walking Workouts: Myths & Facts

Walking boasts all the health and fitness benefits of other low-intensity workouts and they’re convenient and accessible. Walking workouts are customizable to your personal ability, and they’re good for people of all fitness levels and ages. Are the glories of walking overrated? Everyday Health gives nine myths and facts to know.

Myth: Walking 10,000 Steps a Day Is Ideal

Many people use 10,000 steps as a benchmark for a daily goal, but this number actually originated as part of a marketing campaign rather than coming from scientific evidence. One study did show that walking more steps each day was incrementally linked to more benefit when it came to reduction in cancer and heart disease incidence, as well as mortality.

Fact: Walking Helps With Blood

Sugar Control

When you participate in physical activity, you encourage your muscle cells to soak up glucose from your bloodstream for energy, decreasing your blood sugar in the short term and helping maintain insulin sensitivity over the long-term, according to the American Diabetes Association. And while any type of exercise is good for regulating blood glucose, walking is especially effective — especially when you do it right after eating.

Myth: Walking Can Cure Depression and Anxiety

Most exercise is associated with mental health benefits, but in most cases no single exercise, like walking, can by itself cure a clinical disorder.

Myth: Running is Always Superior to Walking

Walking is a low impact exercise that offers benefits such as promoting

endorphin release, increasing blood flow to the body and the brain, and improving bone health, without exerting the extra strain on your joints. Moderate to intense walking can reduce the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes when expending the same amount of energy as running, research has found.

Myth: You Shouldn’t Walk Every Day of the Week

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should do 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (such as brisk walking) a week, and because walking is a low-intensity activity, it is perfectly reasonable for people to get out and walk each day.

Fact: You Must Walk Faster to Burn More Calories

While any activity burns calories, the more intensity you bring to your workouts, the more calories you burn. That’s true for walking, too. To make your walks more of a challenge and to up the number of calories burned during your walk, intervals (alternating between higher and moderate or lower intensity periods of movement) can be very effective.

Fact: Silent Walking Is Good for You

Silent walking means taking a walk without distractions. No podcast through your earbuds, no chatting with a friend on the phone, or no walking playlist to listen to. Proponents of silent walking say that it allows you the chance to be alone with your thoughts and practice what could be thought of as a moving meditation.

This article is an adapted excerpt from Everyday Health. To read the full article, please visit everydayhealth.com/fitness/walkingworkouts-myths-and-facts-to-know.

The Simplicity of Gnocchi

Your National Director of Food, Beverage & Culinary Experience, Patrick Scully, along with your local Lifestyle team invite you to join us for our next installment of the Cooking and Cocktail series:The Simplicity of Gnocchi.

Learn the art of crafting savory gnocchi with a gorgonzola cream sauce and create the perfect classic Italian Negroni cocktail to complement. Learn the precise balance of gin, vermouth, and Campari, elevating your mixology skills to new heights.

And what’s an Italian feast without the perfect wine pairing? Sip and savor as we guide you through selecting a divine wine that harmonizes flawlessly with the rich flavors of your homemade gnocchi dish. During this 1.5 hour demonstration, you will enjoy samples of the featured items and volunteers may be requested. All attendees are welcome to bring their own beverages to enjoy.

Please visit the event calendar on your community website to register.

Around Town

NORTH CAROLINA MUSIC HALL OF FAME

Open Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 1 -4 p.m.

600 Dale Earnhardt Boulevard, Kannapolis northcarolinamusichalloffame.org

Free admission, donations are welcome. Listen to music and watch videos from the greatest artists in North Carolina history via our interactive displays throughout the museum.

CHARLOTTE SHOUT!

March 29 - April 14

Uptown Charlotte | www.charlotteshout.com

The festival weaves together the extraordinary talents of internationally and locally acclaimed artists, dancers, musicians, poets, storytellers, photographers, chefs and thought leaders. It is a feast for all the senses and all ages, serving up soulful music, tantalizing food, mind-blowing images, playful installations, inspiring performances, and bold ideas. Visit the website for more information and to download a map for all the locations.

Trip Spotlight & Special Offer

10 Day Mediterranean Cruise - Barcelona to Venice

Monuments of history and jaw-dropping panoramas blend beautifully on this voyage that explores some of the most charismatic destinations across the Mediterranean, from the Dalmatian gem of lively Split to fabled towns along the glorious Amalfi Coast. Embark on a journey of sophistication, where luxury meets discovery.

To learn more or to book this trip, visit www.journeys360travel. com/ere-member/charismatic-mediterranean-barcelona-to-venice10-days. As a benefit of Destinations by Esplanade, book now and receive a special offer of $200 Shipboard credit per stateroom from Journeys 360 Travel. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary adventure. Please email info@journeys360travel.com or call at 239-829-8299 for more details. Certain conditions apply.