LIFESTYLE
NWF: Let’s Come Together for Nature CONCIERGE
Exclusive
Hayley Smith Lifestyle Manager 813-778-5554
Hayley.Smith@TeamEsplanade.com
Jacquelyn Hannan Community Association Manager 941-567-4183
Jacquelyn.Hannan@TeamEsplanade.com COMMUNITY
Sales Gallery Hours Mon-Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sun, 12 - 6 p.m.
Teresa Vaal
Community Sales Manager 941-217-8838
TVaal@TaylorMorrison.com
Lisa Van Dillen
Community Sales Manager 941-504-4937
LVanDillen@TaylorMorrison.com
Esplanade at The Heights Community Association 6130 Grandview Hill Ct. Bradenton, FL 34207 941-761-4170 MEMBER
EsplanadeHeightsLifestyle.com 800-720-0028
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
HAYLEY SMITH YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
A Season of Vibrancy & Renewal
Your Lifestyle team is excited to share with you the latest edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Inside each publication, you will receive updates on the community happenings as well as upcoming events and activities.
Spring is right around the corner and with that comes fresh new ways to get involved and stay social within your community. Your Lifestyle team has been hard at work curating an exceptional lineup of events and experiences for you designed to bring joy, wellness, and connection for all. From the festive celebrations and social gatherings to wellness activities and unique adventures, there’s always something exciting to look forward to at Esplanade at The Heights!
As you start planning your social calendar for the next few months, please be sure to register for all events and activities that you’re interested in attending via the community website. If you registered for an activity that you are no longer able to attend, simply contact your Lifestyle team to be removed from the attendance list. Registrations are important so that proper accommodations can be made for our Members.
If you have any suggestions or feedback on current or upcoming programs, please reach out and let us know!
Furry Friends
Meet Vinny
LOVED BY DIANE MICHAEL & JIM MANCUSO
What is your pet’s breed and how old is he?
We believe Vinny is a Havapoo, which is a cross between a Havanese and a Poodle. He will be six years old in July.
What is his favorite treat?
Nubz, without a doubt!
How did your fur baby join your family?
Vinny was part of a 300-dog seizure in Tampa from a breeder who was hoarding and neglecting dogs. We put our name in to participate in adopting a dog. After background checks and having lucky number 7 called as our number, we were invited to “view and choose” a dog. Each dog was labeled in a crate with sex/breed/medical issues/ approximate age. We had 15 minutes to choose. We chose a fourpound, frozen with fear, trembling, little black, curly haired, smelly little boy. Today, Vinny is master of the house, fiercely guards us and “his property.” He acts like a “tough guy” but is really a big chicken.
He only likes to be pet by mama and papa, so don’t even try! He will not venture more than a few feet from us. He loves to chase rabbits, car and golf cart rides, cooling off in the pool, laying in the sun and bonfires. He also loves playing with his friends at “Dog World.”
WANT TO FEATURE YOUR PET?
Contact your Resort Manager to be featured in the next edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures.
Around Town
2025 IRISH CELTIC FESTIVAL
Saturday, March 15 | 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Greenbrook Adventure Park | www.eventbrite.com
Enjoy Irish food and beer, stage performances, kids’ activities, lucky dog parade, 21+ relay race, and much more!
REGGAE RISE UP
Thursday, March 13 - Sunday, March 16
Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg | reggaeriseup.com
Experience this music festival that will take place at Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg. The festival will include music, food, art, and activities.
BOURBON & BLUES FESTIVAL 2025
Friday, March 21 & Saturday, March 22
Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa | www.eventbrite.com
Get ready for a night of smooth bourbon sippin’ and soulful blues tunes at our Bourbon & Blues Festival!
ALMOST ABBA
Friday, April 4 | 7:30 p.m.
SCF Neel Performing Arts Center | www.scf.edu/events
This #1 Tribute to ABBA recreates the magic and nostalgia of ABBA in a costumed, choreographed, audience interactive experience. Almost ABBA have performed for audiences as large as 50,000. With their sound alike performance, intricate harmonies and topnotch musicianship, they truly live up to their name, “Almost.”
BEER FOR MY HORSES: TOBY KEITH TRIBUTE
Tuesday, April 8 | 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, Stone Hall www.manateeperformingartscenter.com
Beer For My Horses is the hottest tribute and is the closest you will get to the high energy of a real Toby Keith show. They perform faithful singalong renditions of Toby’s greatest hits including “Red Solo Cup,” “American Soldier,” “How Do You Like Me Now,” and of course, “Beer For My Horses.”
COMING THIS SPRING STAY
TUNED FOR
MORE DETAILS! PICKLEBALL COURTS
Get ready to illuminate the night at Esplanade’s glow-in-the-dark pickleball social, Let’s GLOW! Members are invited to gather for an unforgettable evening of fun competition, spirited play, and vibrant festivities. Bring your a-game and dress to impress in your neon best as we transform our pickleball courts into a luminous environment of sport and style!
Ÿ DJ ENTERTAINMENT
Ÿ GLOW-IN-THE-DARK PHOTO BOOTH
Ÿ CASH BAR WITH SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Ÿ GLOW BAR & FACE PAINTING
Ÿ AWARDS CEREMONY, PRIZES AND MORE!
Julie Wodzinski
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
Julie Wodzinski and her mother moved to the neighborhood at the beginning of December. They’re originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, but Julie has been here (by way of Phoenix, and Denver) for four years. She lived in South Sarasota and a friend suggested she look here at Esplanade when she was looking to move north.
Julie and her mom could not have been happier with their choice. They have only been here for a little over a month and know this was the right choice. Everyone they’ve met have been so welcoming and friendly. They appreciate the beauty of the area including Mt. Tumalo, and the convenience to UTC and shops, all while still feeling the privacy and seclusion of the neighborhood.
She is semi-retired and currently a Pilates instructor for Club Pilates. She works just around the corner in the Publix plaza on Mondays and Wednesdays, in downtown Sarasota on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and does private lessons as well.
Julie’s mom, who she affectionately calls “Tootsie,” has been with her full time for just over a year. Tootsie will proudly tell you she will be 92 in May. If you see them walking in the neighborhood, you’ll see right away they are mother and daughter. Julie’s sister, Cathy visits from outside Chicago every few months. They have two Persian cats, Luna and Bella, who love to sit on the lanai and watch the birds.
They are looking forward to meeting more of their new neighbors at the events and gatherings and wish everyone here at Esplanade at The Heights a happy and healthy 2025.
Let’s Come Together For Nature!
The National Wildlife Federation is the official conservation partner of The Americas. Narrated by Tom Hanks, The Americas takes viewers on an epic journey across North and South America in a 10-part television event. Explore the wonder, secrets and fragility of the supercontinent’s most amazing creatures and inspiring landscapes - including Florida and the Gulf Coast. Watch The Americas, streaming on Peacock to get inspired to spend time outside in nature, discovering the wonders of wildlife and wild places. For more information, visit NBC. com/ComeTogetherForNature
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 continue to build and foster these relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of a business or organization that would like to partner with Esplanade at The Heights, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. As a part of our concierge offerings, Members can take advantage of special rates at the following establishments below. Contact your Lifestyle Manager for more details!
DOGPERFECT
$40 off Perfect Club Membership (contact Lifestyle Manager for coupon) dogperfect.com
LUXURY PET SPA
Mobile Pet Grooming. 10% off. Stanley: 941-330-3414
MUSIC
FLETCHER MUSIC STUDIO
50% off of 6 weeks of music programs. 941-960-7486
HOTELS, RESORTS & GOLF
Visit esplanadeheightslifestyle. com/concierge for more details on participating area hotels/resorts. Reciprocal golf rates at Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch.
TROON ACCESS
Members receive 25% off a Troon Access Membership. Use code “ESPLANADE25” when registering. troon.com/access PET SERVICES
WATER ACTIVITIES
BOAT TOURS SARASOTA
Use code Esplanade for 10% off your private, customizable, chartered pontoon boat to explore. 941-799-1863 boattourssarasota.com
KAYAKING SRQ
Enjoy 10% off (except private tours & paddle boarding) with code Esplanade. kayakingsrq@gmail.com kayakingsrq.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
CHICKEN SALAD CHICK
10% off order at the Bradenton location by mentioning Esplanade at checkout in store!
LAIRD SUPERFOOD PRODUCTS
Contact your Lifestyle Manager for a discount!
SIMPLY COFFEE
Cold brew delivery to your door! 20% off first month of a subscription. coldbrewdelivered.com
TWO CHEFS ON HILLVIEW
Local Gastronomy shop 20% off orders $40+ with code Esplanade twochefsonhillview.com
VACCI PIZZA & CUCINA
New Jersey-style Italian food. 15% off when you mention Esplanade. 941-405-4131 vaccipizza.com
TRAVEL
HEATHER ROEMBKE - YOUR PERSONAL TRAVEL ADVISOR
Contact Heather to find out the latest travel discounts! hroembke@gosmart.travel
HEALTH & WELLNESS
CORA PHYSICAL THERAPY
Mention you are a Member of Esplanade at the Heights and receive a free consultation. 6150 N. Lockwood Ridge Road Sarasota 941-960-4741 www.coraphysicaltherapy.com
HOME SERVICES
LEMON SQUEEZY LAUNDRY
Members receive 15% off laundry service when you mention you live in Esplanade at The Heights. 941-216-6002 info@lemonsqueezylaundry.com www.lemonsqueezylaundry.com
ANT-SER PEST CONTROL
Members will receive 10% off initial services using the code: antserman. 941-877-0329 ant-ser.com
CUSTOM SMART HOME SERVICES
10% off orders under $2,000 and 5% off orders above $2,000. Fransua: 813-446 1979 or fransua@sjfcinemas.com
KINETIC KRAFTSMEN
Custom Outdoor Kitchens 10% off outdoor kitchens under 8 feet & 15% off over 8 feet trent@kinetickraftsmen.com
STOP SLIP SOLUTIONS
Fix your slippery floors and patios with a 10% discount for Members! Mary Ann Hollander stopslipsolutionsinc@gmail.com
ZINGA’S
Blinds, Shutters, Shades, Outdoor Screen Shades and Awnings 20% off all products (excluding pergolas).
$1,500 off any power pergola. Just mention “Esplanade Magazine” when booking an appointment. 844-494-6427 zingashome.com
Recent Events
Fall in Love with WELLNESS
Members were invited to come down to The Venue and check out local wellness vendors and receive a free chair massage by our very own therapist, Jessica Donnery.
Craft NIGHT
Our Members tapped into their creativity to craft beautiful and unique luminaries, adding a warm and personal touch to their décor.
Toys for Tots TOY DRIVE
Our Members helped make the 2024 holiday season extra special for families in need, spreading joy and bringing smiles when it mattered the most. Thank you for your generous donations!
Recent Events
Trot to the Top EVENT
The cold weather didn’t stop us from having a great time at the Bark Park with Dog Perfect. It was a fun day for both dogs and their owners!
Food Bank VOLUNTEER DAY
Another rewarding day of giving back to the community! We were grateful for the opportunity to lend a hand, connect with others, and make a positive impact.
Introduction TO THE GYM
Our Members got a hands-on introduction to gym basics with Nichola Pahl, learning essential techniques and tips to kick-start their fitness journey with confidence.
It’s a Wonderful Lifestyle SIGNATURE EVENT
Our Members came together to celebrate the holiday season with delicious food, great company, and plenty of festive cheer. It was a joyful gathering filled with laughter, warmth, and the spirit of the season!
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For the full details, please visit esplanadeheightslifestyle.com/events.
PICKLEBALL CLINICS
Intermediate/Advanced: March 2 & 9 and April 13 & 20 | 3 p.m.
Beginner/Intermediate: Sundays, March 9 and April 20 | 1 p.m. Pickleball Courts
Time to step up your game! Pickleball Pro Traci Dutton will be on the courts to run drills and practice skills. Space is limited so register early on our community website!
PICKLEBALL 101
Wednesday, March 26 | 6 p.m.
Pickleball Courts
Not sure what all the fuss is about pickleball? Come down to the courts and find out! We will have our pickleball pro on site to teach you the basics and show you why this is the fastest growing sport. If you don’t have a paddle, don’t worry, there are paddles to borrow at the front desk. Please contact your Lifestyle Manager if you would like to sign one out.
BINGO NIGHT
Mondays, March 3 & April 7 | 6 p.m. Lifestyle Room
Feeling lucky? Plan a night with friends playing bingo. This is a funfilled event with low stakes and high excitement. No need to buy cards or daubers, just bring your lucky charms and play for fun prizes.
FIRST FRIDAY
Fridays, March 7 & April 4 | 6 - 8 p.m. Lifestyle Room
Join friends and neighbors in the Lifestyle Room to share appetizers and laughs. Your Lifestyle team will provide bottled water and soda but Members are welcome to bring their favorite beverages. We encourage all participants to bring a dish to share.
THOUGHTS ON WRITING PRESENTATION
Tuesday, March 11 | 7 p.m. Lifestyle Room
After his well received, entertaining talk last spring, we’ve invited Michael Sisti back to present this new talk. He will share events that he has experienced and then read his interpretations of them from his humorous books. They are laugh-out-loud funny.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY BRUNCH
Sunday, March 16 | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lifestyle Room | $8
Get a jump start on the holiday by joining your neighbors for a delicious brunch with some Irish flair! Enjoy food, juice, coffee, tea, and water or feel free to bring your favorite drink.
FOOD BANK VOLUNTEER DAYS
Mondays, March 17 & April 21 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
All Faiths Food Bank Warehouse | 8151 Blaikie Court, Sarasota
Let’s give back to the community by giving our time. We will be at the All Faiths Food Bank volunteering for a warehouse shift where we will sort and pack various donations.
MEDICARE SEMINAR
Tuesday, March 18 | 4 p.m.
Lifestyle Room
We are following up on our recent educational presentation with guidance from our very own Lucy Esposito! This is a great opportunity for you to learn about all your options for Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, and D. Whether you’re new to Medicare, retiring, or moving, understanding the importance of timing is crucial. Whether you’ve been on Medicare for a while or are new, you’ll benefit from learning about the important changes for everyone coming in 2025.
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For the full details, please visit esplanadeheightslifestyle.com/events.
WASH & CLOTH + CANDLEHAUS POP UP
Saturday, March 22 | 12 - 4 p.m. Lifestyle Room
We are welcoming Wash & Cloth and CandleHaus Co. to our community with a pop-up event! They will be set up in the Lifestyle Room with their wonderful products for you to check out. Wash & Cloth specializes in handcrafted, natural products that are made from scratch in small batches for top quality soaps, skincare, and homecare items. Candlehause Co. offers beautifully scented candles made with coconut wax and premium, phthalate and -free fragrances for a clean-burning, non-toxic experience.
SLICE AND ADVICE
Thursday, March 20 | 1 - 3 p.m.
Lifestyle Room
Join us for some delicious pizza and get to know your neighbors. A representative will be on site to share tips and talk about Xfinity services that help you do more of what you love! We encourage you to bring a copy of your bill (Xfinity OR NonXfinity) for a personalized review of your options and potential savings!
CRAFT NIGHT: NAILED IT DIY
Thursday, April 10 | 7 p.m.
Nailed It DIY Studio
We’re heading to Nailed It DIY Studio for this craft night! Members can enjoy $20 off their own, beautiful, handmade sign! Check the community website for the registration link and pick out your project.
Monthly Member Meetings
ESPLANADE 101
Tuesdays, March 11 & April 8
10 a.m. | Lifestyle Room
Join your Community Association Manager and your Lifestyle Manager every second Tuesday of the month for a New Homeowner informational meeting.
MARIETTA MUSEUM OF ART & WHIMSY TOUR
Thursday, April 24 | 1:15 p.m. (Meet) & 1:30 p.m. (Tour Begins) 2121 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Join us for an afternoon at the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy for a guided tour. We will start with a brief word from the founder followed by a complete tour of the museum and outdoor gardens. Come and appreciate the wonderful and varied artwork of artists from far and wide. We will be meeting in front of the museum.
LET’S GET ORGANIZED!
Monday, April 27 | 6:30 p.m. Zoom
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, stuck, embarrassed or distracted by clutter? Join organizational expert Kristin McCrae to finally tackle that closet, garage, or the whole house! You’ll not only get organized, but you’ll stay organized with processes and systems that work for you!
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Tuesdays, March 18 & April 15
10 a.m. | Lifestyle Room
Join your Community Association Manager every third Tuesday of the month to discuss community specific updates and items regarding your HOA.
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Thursdays, March 20 & April 17
10 a.m. | Lifestyle Room
Join your Lifestyle Manager every third Thursday for Coffee and Conversation to discuss the unique programming of your Esplanade at The Heights Lifestyle.
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Your Lifestyle Manager will assist in coordinating the available times and locations available for your club or interest group to meet at the Resort Amenity. 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!
BIBLE STUDY GROUP
Please contact the club leader for meeting dates and times.
Meetings will be in the group leader’s home. This non-denominational Christian group will explore what the Bible teaches and will use audio/visual aides to facilitate the discussion. The leader will provide handouts for discussion questions at times. Members will take turns bringing snacks. Call/text John & Betty Quagliotto at 586-243-2020.
CANASTA CLUB
Every Friday | 1 - 3:30 p.m.
Lifestyle Room
Join us every Friday for an afternoon of Canasta! This engaging card game is fun, and the perfect time to socialize and get to know your neighbors. If you are interested in playing, please contact club leader, Betty Berger at blberger7@gmail.com or via text at 314-662-1223.
COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH CLUB
Please contact the club leader for meeting dates and times.
This club is a fun and easy way to get to know the Members of the community! Each month, a Member hosts the club at The Venue and provides that month’s featured cocktail! Contact Jacquie Smith at smithj2553@gmail.com if you would like to join.
DINNER DIVAS
Please contact the club leader for meeting dates and times.
Open to all Esplanade ladies; a great way to meet people in the neighborhood. Get to know the dinner scene in our area. Contact Linda Zuffa at lindamariezuffa.pa1@gmail.com to reserve your spot. Registration closes one week prior. If your plans should change within 24 hours of the event, please call Linda at 214-563-9595.
ESPLANADE LADIES HAPPY HOUR
Wednesdays, March 26 & April 30 | 4 - 6 p.m. Lifestyle Room
Join the Esplanade Ladies Happy Hour, a vibrant social club where women of our community come together to unwind, connect, and enjoy each other’s company. This club is a space for building lasting friendships and strengthening our community bonds. Held the last Wednesday of the month, this gathering is the perfect opportunity to meet new friends, catch up with old ones, and share in the joy of
good conversation. Bring a beverage and small appetizer to share. If interested, please contact Nicole Bowman at bowmanic@gmail.com.
LADIES LUNCH BUNCH
Thursdays, March 6 & April 3 | 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Contact club leader for locations.
This club is open to all Esplanade ladies and is a great way to meet your neighbors and get a taste of the Sarasota/Bradenton cuisine! Contact Nicole Bowman at bowmanic@gmail.com if you’d like to join.
MAHJONG 101 GROUP
Mahjong 101: Every Monday | 1 - 3:30 p.m.
Lifestyle Room
Curious about Mahjong? This classic Chinese game is one of strategy, skill, and summation. Members are welcome to come learn the basics and experience the fun of this tile game. The Venue has a Mahjong tile set to borrow. If interested, contact Betty Berger at blberger7@ gmail.com or via text at 314-662-1223.
PICKLEBALL CLUB
Saturdays | 7:30 - 10 a.m.
Pickleball Courts
Join your neighbors for Pickleball Club, open to all skill levels! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this is a great way to stay active, improve your game, and meet new friends. This club will also have occasional tournaments for those interested in a bit of friendly competition! We look forward to seeing you on the courts! If you are interested in the club or have any questions, contact club leader Peter Johnston at peterandbethj@yahoo.com or text 941-704-4083.
WINE CLUB
Thursday, March 13 | 6:30 p.m.
Lifestyle Room
The Wine Club is a great way to learn more about wine in a social and fun way. Each month a different theme is selected by the group and Aaron, the club leader, coordinates the wine purchase. Tasting notes are compared and wines, grapes, and regions are explored. Contact club leader, Kim Kerr, at kimmkerr82@gmail.com for more information. Registration will close one week prior to the meeting. Please note that this group will now meet every other month.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
5 - 7:30 P.M. | LIFESTYLE ROOM
The Cooking and Cocktails Series is back in 2025, and we are kicking things off with a night in Bologna! Attendees will learn to craft a classic Bolognese sauce and homemade ricotta cheese designed to elevate your culinary skills.
We'll finish the class with a refreshing homemade lemon gelato, the perfect palate cleanser.
As part of the demonstration, you will also have the opportunity to taste a variety of Italian wines that pair well with the classic Bolognese sauce.
During this 1.5 hour demonstration, you will enjoy samples of the featured items and volunteers may be requested. All attendees are encouraged to bring their own beverages to enjoy.
Stay in the Game
Preventing and Recovering from Pickleball Injuries
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports, offering a fun and social way to stay active. However, like any physical activity, it comes with the risk of injury. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the court, taking simple steps to prevent injuries can keep you playing longer—and if aches and pains arise, physical therapy can help you recover quickly.
Preventing Pickleball Injuries
1. Warm Up and Stretch
Take five minutes before playing to loosen up your muscles and joints. Dynamic stretches, light jogging, and arm circles can prepare your body for movement.
2. Strengthen Key Muscles
Strong legs, core, and shoulders help prevent strain and overuse injuries. Simple bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and planks can build stability.
3. Mind Your Footwork
Quick changes in direction can lead to ankle and knee injuries. Proper shoes with good grip and lateral support are essential.
4. Stay Hydrated and Listen to Your Body
Fatigue increases the risk of injury. Stay hydrated, and if something feels off, take a break.
Recovering from Injuries
If you experience pain or discomfort after playing, don’t ignore it. CORA Physical Therapy offers concierge services to assess your symptoms and provide guidance—whether it’s targeted exercises, manual therapy, or treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Common pickleball injuries like tennis elbow, knee pain, or shoulder strains can often be treated with physical therapy to restore strength and mobility while preventing future issues. By addressing minor aches early, you can avoid long-term problems and stay active on the court.
Want to learn more about how physical therapy can help? Contact CORA Physical Therapy to schedule a consultation today: Nicolas Pahl - Clinic Manager
Cora Physical Therapy
6150 North Lockwood Ridge
Sarasota, Florida 34243
With savings and access to over 150 world-class courses, Troon Access is perfect for every Esplanade golf enthusiast, of any level! From Kapalua, to Gamble Sands and Troon North – your Troon Access benefits give you a network of premier courses to play. As a benefit of living within in a community proudly supported by Esplanade Resort Experiences, and in our valued partnership with Troon, we are pleased to offer Members 25% off on a Troon Access Membership by using code ESPLANADE25 when registering! Visit Troon.com/access
Members will be making their own wooden sign and receive $20 off sign design of their choice.