LIFESTYLE
Sales Managers
Liz Kabbush 702-768-3731
LKabbush@TaylorMorrisson.com
Zach Douglas 239-470-6565
ZDouglas@TaylorMorrisson.com
Riley Wallma 843-964-7626
RWallman@TaylorMorrisson.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
EDWIN ROSA YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Happy New Year!
Welcome to the very first edition of the Esplanade at Starling Lifestyle Magazine! I am beyond thrilled to share this exciting milestone with you all. As your Lifestyle Manager, it is my privilege to help bring our community together and make every day here unforgettable.
This publication is more than just a collection of stories and updates; it’s a reflection of who we are, a vibrant, connected, and ever-growing community that thrives through shared experiences and unforgettable moments. Inside these pages, you’ll discover Member Spotlights, local business features, and glimpses into the Lifestyle that makes Esplanade at Starling such a remarkable place to call home.
Looking ahead, I’m especially excited for the grand opening of our new Courts, gathering to watch the big game, and enjoying an evening of bourbon and fine cigars with neighbors that become family. These moments are what make our community so special, a place where laughter, connection, and celebration are always at the heart of what we do. As we turn the page into a new year, our focus remains on creating opportunities for connection, fun, and lasting memories. Together, we’ll make 2026 a year filled with joy, community, and unforgettable experiences.
Zach Douglas
YOUR SALES MANAGER
As Esplanade at Starling’s only Southwest Florida native sales manager, Zach Douglas brings a uniquely local perspective to luxury living in Punta Gorda. Born and raised in Fort Myers, Zach grew up immersed in the world of real estate, developing a deep appreciation for quality home construction and the vibrant lifestyle that defines our region.
Zach’s passion for high-quality living led him to partner with Taylor Morrison and their renowned Esplanade brand, where he proudly helps bring a sense of class, comfort, and elevated design to the Punta Gorda area. His commitment to excellence and community shines through in every interaction, making him a trusted resource for future homeowners seeking the perfect blend of luxury and lifestyle.
When he’s not serving his community, Zach enjoys spending time on the water, fishing Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor for snook, redfish, and tarpon. His close second to fishing is golfing up and down Florida’s beautiful west coast, where he finds both relaxation and inspiration.
With deep roots in Southwest Florida and a genuine love for the area, Zach is honored to help others find their dream home in one of the most desirable communities in the region.
Rejuvenate in Florida’s Winter Glow
With winter is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to indulge in self-care and renew your sense of well-being. A spa visit can be the ultimate way to recharge, offering treatments that refresh your skin, soothe your body, and revitalize your spirit. Seasonal spa treatments are designed to hydrate and nourish, leaving you feeling radiant and ready to embrace cooler days.
Facials that incorporate ingredients like honey, citrus, or lavender can work wonders to brighten your complexion and restore a natural glow. For a full-body refresh, exfoliating scrubs and hydrating wraps remove dull, dry skin and replace it with softness and vitality.
Massages are another excellent way to reset and rejuvenate. Whether you prefer the deep relaxation of a hot stone massage or the tensionrelieving benefits of deep tissue therapy, spring is the perfect time to ease winter’s lingering stiffness. Aromatherapy can further enhance the experience, with uplifting seasonal scents like jasmine, bergamot, or eucalyptus.
The benefits of regular spa visits go beyond the surface. They can reduce stress, boost circulation, and even enhance your immune system, contributing to a healthier, happier you. To extend the experience at home, many spas offer take-home products like aromatic creams, nourishing oils, or bath salts that allow you to maintain your wellness routine long after your visit. Step into spring with serenity. Your wellness journey starts today.
The Big Game
WATCH PARTY
Sunday, February 8
6 - 10 P.M. | SALES GALLERY
Join your neighbors for a fun-filled night of football, food, and community. We’ll be serving up delicious game-day eats, including fan favorites that are sure to score big! Please register by January 30 at 4 p.m. so we can plan accordingly. Don’t miss this spirited evening of fun and camaraderie!
Courts Grand Opening
Saturday, January 17
9 - 11 a.m. | Courts
Get ready to celebrate the grand opening at this exclusive event for our brand-new Courts! This gathering will feature live music, delicious breakfast bites, refreshing drinks, and plenty of pickleball fun as we toast this exciting addition to our community.
Happy Hour
Thursday, February 26
6 - 9 p.m. | Sales Galley
Join us for a Happy Hour where neighbors become family! Bring your favorite beverage and enjoy delicious lite bites as you mingle, relax, and connect.
Furry Friends
Meet Troy
LOVED BY ANTHONY & EILEEN CARABALLO
On April 12, 2015, a tiny bundle of fur named Troy entered our lives, a Cavapoo with the perfect mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sweetness and Poodle smarts. For years, our kids wished for a dog, and when Troy finally arrived, he brought endless love and laughter to our home. With his soft curls, expressive eyes, and wagging tail, he instantly became everyone’s best friend. Whether offering quiet comfort on tough days or bursting with joy during playtime, Troy has a way of making every moment brighter.
He loves belly rubs, long walks, and keeping watch from his favorite chair. Ever alert, he takes his “security duties” seriously, proudly announcing every visitor with a bark. Over the years, he’s grown from a playful pup into our loyal companion, an inseparable part of our family story. And the story continues, our furry family has grown! Stay tuned for updates on Annie the cat and Mia the French Bulldog, Troy’s new partners in fun.
Golf Classic
Esplanade at Starling was honored to sponsor the 2nd Annual Golf Classic to Benefit the Animal Welfare League Tournament held at Deep Creek Country Club on October 25! Giving back to organizations that make a real difference in our community is something we’re truly passionate about. A heartfelt “Thank You” to everyone who participated, volunteered, and helped raise awareness for such an important mission. Together, we make a difference!
To learn more about the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County, make a donation, adopt a pet or foster a pet, please visit their website at www.awlshelter.org for more information.
Have a Pet you Want to Feature?
Contact your Lifestyle 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. Don’t have a furry family of your own, but know a community Member who does? Nominate them to be the next Featured Furry Friend. Contact the Member to suggest the feature or your Lifestyle Manager at Edwin. Rosa@TeamEsplanade.com to nominate anonymously.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Let us handle the details while you enjoy the moments. To browse the full list of available Esplanade Concierge offerings, visit EsplanadePerks.com and use registration code esplanade2023 to access the Esplanade Member portal. Through the Esplanade Concierge program we are proud to offer you exclusive discounts and rates on everything from local restaurants and attractions, to movie tickets, car rentals, hotels and more! With thousands of local and national offers across 10,000 cities and easy mobile access, you’ll always find a reason to celebrate your savings.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
DEEP CREEK HOME WATCH
10% off first contract period. Wendy Jennings: 941-368-2007 deepcreekhomewatch@gmail.com
CARIBBEAN CO. Window Covering 10% off entire order. Kevin Rielly 239-571-0524 kevin@caribbeancoshutters.com www.caribbeancoshutters.com
OUTDOOR KITCHENS OF SW FLORIDA
Free Griddle Plate, Grill Cover & BBQ Tool Set
Susan Harrington: 239-226-1000 www.odkitchens.com
CULLIGAN
Home Conditioner & Drinking Water System
$500 off. Chad McCoy: 941-400-0421 cmccoy@cullingansarasota.com
ZINGAS
20% off plus FREE in-home consultation ($2,500 minimum). Kathy Foddrill kathyfoddrill@zingashome.com www.zingashome.com
CONDITIONED AIR
15% off first service. Stephanie Medina: 239-939-1177 smedina@conditionedair.com conditionedair.com
MAGNIFICENT MAIDS INC
25% off first service. Nicolas Viteri: 941-725-1163 magnificentmaidsswfl@gmail.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT
BUDGET FENCING OF SW FLORIDA
25% off entire order. William Cordova: 941-763-5954 budgetfencingofswfl@gmail.com
ENGLEWOOD FENCING
$500 off a complete fence installation. Mike Davis: 941-218-3356 englewoodfencing@gmail.com
WATERSCAPES POOLS & SPA Free saltwater chlorinator with any pool. Scott Lenz: 941-324-0562
CLOSET INNOVATIONS
$150 off any purchase over $3,000. Tylan Hannan: 239-850-2481 tylan@closetinnovationsfl.com www.closetinnovationsfl.com
ALL U NEED PEST CONTROL
50% off first service. Dylan Hinton: 941-773-9446 dhinton@alluneedpest.com alluneedpest.com
PET SERVICES
ANIMAL PET DENTAL
$10 on the first Dental Cleaning. Danuza Corumba: 254-226-7221 animallovepetdentalweb@gmail.com alpetdental.com
AUTOMOBILE SERVICES
INSTANT AUTO SPA 10% off first service. Henry Morales: 786-660-2455 Instantautospa@gmail.com www.instantautospa.com
GOLF
TROON ACCESS
25% discount on a Troon Access
Membership by entering code ESPLANADE25 at checkout! troon.com/access
CART NATION $500 discount. golfcart.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
ILLY COFFEE
20% off all Illy coffee. www.illy.com
FITNESS, HEALTH & WELLNESS
ANYTIME FITNESS PUNTA GORDA 3941 Tamiami Trail 941-347-8540 www.anytimefitness.com
ALPHA’S MEN’S SPA 8475 Dani Drive, #130, Ft. Myers (Behind Top Golf) $20 off first visit.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES
YOUR BOAT CLUB
First month free. Rentals: Use Code ESPLANADE10 Abby Schultz 612-501-7360 abby@yourboatclub.com yourboatclub.com
AMC THEATERS
Save 25% on AMC Black e-tickets; mobile redemption EsplanadePerk.com www.amctheaters.com
Recent Events
Global Wellness Day EVENT
Global Wellness Day was the perfect opportunity to reset and recharge. The 1-on-1 session with Sandi was incredibly meaningful. A special thank you to Jackie from The Yoga Sanctuary for making the experience truly special.
Summer Concert AT LAKE CLUB
Members kicked off summer with The Caribbean Chillers, Florida’s top Jimmy Buffet tribute band. The lawn was full of dancing, island vibes, and Parrot Head fun, followed by tropical sips at the Bahama Bar for the perfect island-style evening!
Dinner at CARMELO’S
Our evening at Carmelo’s was nothing short of delight. The food was authentic and flavorful, the atmosphere warm and welcoming, and the company even better. It was the perfect setting to relax, share stories, and enjoy great conversations with friends. Nights like these remind us why we love coming together as a community.
Sunset CRUISE
Our evening with King Fisher Fleet was pure magic! Members set sail from Fishermen’s Village and enjoyed a stunning Florida sunset over Charlotte Harbor. With peaceful breezes, dolphin sightings, and great company, it was the perfect way to unwind. A beautiful reminder of why we love where we live!
Recent Events
Star, Strips & Smoke EVENT
Stars, Stripes & Smoke was a hit, Members came together, shared laughs, and made new connections for the first time.
Cooking & Cocktails Series: SMOKE & BARRELS
Cooking & Cocktails was a hit! Members especially loved the mouthwatering brisket, tender, flavorful, and the star of the evening. Paired with creative cocktails and great company, it made for a truly unforgettable night!
Lunch at BREW HOUSE
We had a wonderful time together at the Brew House today! Great food, lots of laughs, and even better company. A special highlight was celebrating Colleen’s birthday we all joined in to wish her a very happy birthday and make her day extra special.
Our First Homeowners LOOK WHO’S HOME
Esplanade at Starling celebrated two exciting milestones as we welcomed our very first homeowners, Michael & Denyse, followed by Andrew & Sherri. Their arrivals mark the beginning of our growing, connected community in Punta Gorda. We’re thrilled to have them as part of the Esplanade family and look forward to many wonderful memories ahead!
Recent Events
Cooking & Cocktails Series: SOUTH OF THE BORDER
We had a full house for this flavorful evening! Guests enjoyed a fun and festive night of delicious bites and cocktails. Congratulations to Kathy Mancini, who got to take home the chef’s coat!
Technogym Wellness CHECKUP
Members came in for a personalized, science-based fitness assessment with the Technogym Wellness Check-Up. It’s designed to help you start your wellness journey with clarity and confidence.
What's Your Passion?
Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by creating an Interest Group or Social Club today.
We may not have any official groups yet—but that just means you have the exciting chance to be one of the first to start something special! Whether you’ve always wanted to start a book club, teach others how to play cards, or gather fellow garden lovers, now is your moment. Creating an Interest Group or Social Club is a great way to connect with neighbors, build community, learn something new, and most of all—have fun. Interest Groups & Social Clubs are Membermanaged and self-supporting, but your Lifestyle Manager is here to help promote your events and activities through Member communications. If you’re interested in getting a group going, see your Lifestyle Manager. We’d love to hear your ideas and help you bring them to life!
1. DEVELOP
Create the name and purpose of your club. Review guidelines.
2. SUBMIT APPLICATION
Let us know! We'll help schedule your meeting place and time.
3. GET LISTED
Once approved, your new club will be listed on the website and in the Lifestyle Magazine.
New Year, New You!
Jumpstart Your Wellness Journey in 2026
January is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and commit to a healthier, more energized version of yourself. Whether you’re looking to get back into shape after the holidays or kick off a brand-new fitness routine, this month is all about fresh starts and building momentum for the year ahead. Here’s how to get moving and stay motivated this season:
1. SET REALISTIC GOALS
Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on progress. Start small, add 10 minutes of movement to your day or try a new workout once a week. Small steps lead to lasting results.
2. CREATE A ROUTINE YOU ENJOY
Choose activities that excite you, whether it’s dancing, strength training, or early morning walks. When fitness feels fun, it’s easier to stay consistent.
3. WINTER WELLNESS INDOORS & OUT
Don’t let cooler temps stop you. Layer up and enjoy brisk outdoor walks, or explore indoor options like yoga, swimming, or resistance
training to keep your body strong.
4. NOURISH YOUR BODY
Balance your workouts with proper nutrition. Incorporate lean proteins, hearty grains, and winter veggies like kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes to fuel your energy.
5.
STAY HYDRATED & RESTED
Even in winter, hydration matters. Keep your water intake steady and aim for 7–8 hours of sleep each night to support recovery and overall well-being.
6. FIND ACCOUNTABILITY
Partner with a friend, join a group class, or track your progress with a fitness app. Having support keeps you encouraged and focused.
Consistency is key research shows it takes about 21 days to form a habit. By the end of January, your new routine could already feel like second nature. Let’s start 2026 strong, stay committed, and make this year your healthiest one yet!
Upcoming Events
All activities/events subject to change. For details and to register, visit esplanadestarlinglifestyle.com/events.
WILDCARD KICKOFF & CIGARS
Monday, January 12 | 7 p.m.
Sales Gallery
An evening of bourbon, cigars, and football, join us for Kickoff & Cigars, where the game is just the beginning. Please bring your own bourbon and cigars to enjoy.
COURTS GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION
Saturday, January 17 | 9 a.m. Courts
Join us for the ribbon cutting, toast, live music, clinic with the pro, open play on the Courts for Members and guests, raffles, Mimosa and Bloody Mary bar, and breakfast bites. Formal invite coming soon; save the date and join us on the Courts for this exciting celebration!
CELEBRATE NATIONAL PIE DAY
Thursday, January 22 | 5 p.m.
Sales Gallery
Celebrate National Pie Day a day early during our monthly Coffee & Conversation, enjoy a slice, sip some coffee, and get the scoop on upcoming events!
TOAST & TOSS HAPPY HOUR
Thursday, January 29 | 6:30 p.m.
Sales Gallery
Let’s toast, laugh, and toss the stress of the day aside! Bring your drink of choice and enjoy delicious lite bites as you connect with friends old and new. The last Thursday tradition starts now—don’t miss it!
THE BIG GAME WATCH PARTY
Sunday, February 8 | 6 - 10 p.m.
Sales Gallery
Get ready for an exciting evening as we come together to watch The Big Game! Join your neighbors for a fun-filled night of football, food, and community. We’ll be serving up delicious game-day eats, including fan favorites that are sure to score big! Please register by January 30 at 4 p.m. so we can plan accordingly. Don’t miss this spirited evening of fun and camaraderie!
HEARTS & HARMONY
Friday, February 13 | 5 p.m.
Sales Gallery
Let’s celebrate community, connection, and a whole lot of heart! Join us for our Hearts & Harmony Get-Together and enjoy a night of fun with friends.
DRINK WINE DAY WEDNESDAY
Wednesday, February 18 | 4 p.m.
Sales Gallery
Celebrate Drink Wine Day with us! Bring your favorite bottle, sip, smile, and enjoy an easygoing afternoon with neighbors who feel like family. Light bites provided to pair perfectly with your pour!
HAPPY HOUR
Thursday, February 26 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Sales Gallery
Join us for a Happy Hour where neighbors become family! Bring your favorite beverage and enjoy delicious lite bites as you mingle, relax, and connect with the community. Great conversation, laughter, and new friendships await—because here, every neighbor is part of the family.
Kathy & Dave Mancini
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.
As the very first Members of the Esplanade at Starling community, Kathy and Dave proudly chose their forever home from many possibilities. Formerly part of the Punta Gorda snowbird migration, they decided that maintaining a residence in Michigan was no longer for them and knew Esplanade would be the perfect place to settle year-round.
Dave, once an avid Harley-Davidson rider and Black Diamond skier, has retired from those high-adrenaline pursuits, as well as from his nearly lifelong career as an Executive Officer for an international financial services corporation. These days, he enjoys spending time on the golf course and in his cucina preparing delicious recipes from San Marino, a country within Italy where he holds dual citizenship.
Kathy is also retired, having worked in Operations Management for the same corporation. Her passions include the arts, with a special focus on design, glassblowing, and watercolor painting.
Together, they’ve enjoyed more than 20 years of retirement filled with family, friends, travel, and activities that promote health and happiness. Kathy and Dave are excited to meet their new neighbors and build lasting friendships as this beautiful community continues to grow.
Monthly Member Meetings
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Thursdays, January 22 & February 19
5:30 p.m. | Sales Gallery
Join your Lifestyle Manager for some coffee, as we discuss the most current Lifestyle news updates in a relaxed atmosphere.
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Wednesdays, January 14 & February 11
1 p.m. | Sales Gallery
Join your Community Association Manager (CAM) for the most current updates about your community.
ESPLANADE 101
Wednesdays, January 7 & February 4
1 p.m. | Sales Gallery
Join us for the new homeowner orientation with the Lifestyle Manager and CAM as we introduce you to everything Esplanade.
New Year Renewal: Cultivate Balance, Clarity & Calm
January marks a fresh beginning a chance to reset your mindset and nurture your overall well-being. As the new year unfolds, focus on creating space for balance in both your body and mind. Start by simplifying your routines and setting meaningful intentions rather than rigid resolutions. Think progress, not perfection.
Refresh your mornings with mindful rituals like deep breathing, journaling, or stretching before you start your day. These small moments of mindfulness help center your thoughts and boost focus. Stay connected to your inner calm through meditation or quiet walks in nature, even brief pauses can bring peace to busy days.
WSupport your body with nourishing foods that comfort and energize. Seasonal staples like citrus fruits, root vegetables, and leafy greens provide essential vitamins and help strengthen your immune system through the winter months. Pair that with steady hydration and quality rest to maintain energy and emotional balance.
Don’t forget the importance of connection, laughter, or a simple meal with others. Positive relationships are one of the most powerful foundations of wellness. Let this season be about mindful living, steady growth, and renewed purpose. Embrace each day as an opportunity to care for yourself from the inside out, because true wellness starts with how you feel, not just how you look.
Help Backyard Wildlife
inter is here and it’s a perfect time to spend a Green Hour® helping backyard wildlife thrive throughout the season. Many of the beneficial insects, birds, and small animals in your backyard may find it harder to find shelter, water, and food in the coming months. You can help by simply placing a shallow dish of water in a sunny spot in your backyard. If you place a container on the ground, add a rock or two near the edge to help smaller creatures crawl out. Keep the containers clean and refill when low. Find more tips and activities from the National Wildlife Federation by scanning the QR code or visit thegreenhour.org/ activity/help-backyard-wildlife.
Text coming soon...
2026 Member Trips
FOOD TRUCKS SATURDAYS
Saturdays | 5 p.m.
Founder’s Square
Pleasing every taste bud, a variety of food trucks come to town. Shops and restaurants around the square remain open along with Slater’s Goods & Provisions outdoor bar, adding to the festive atmosphere. This has become a favored tradition in Babcock Ranch and a great way to meet new and old friends.
Around Town
FARMER’S MARKET
Saturdays | 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. 277 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda farmersmarkettoolkit.org
There can’t be a better way to spend your Sunday than strolling the square and supporting local businesses. Grab a coffee or a bite to eat and shop
BOB MARLEY - WICKED FUNNY!
January 21 - 24 | 7:30 p.m. Visani’s | visanientertainmentinc.thundertix.com
He was inducted into The Guinness Book of World’s Records for “the longest stand-up comedy show by an individual” at 40 hrs. of straight stand-up! He’s been on over 100 tv shows including Leno, Letterman, Conan, Jimmy Fallon, Craig Ferguson, and Comedy Central to name just a few. He co-starred in “Boondock Saints” I and II “All Saints Day” playing Detective Greenly. He has toured the U.S., Europe, Canada, Kuwait, and Iraq.