Kelli Carmack

New Community Garden Arrives at Del Webb Bexley

March 28, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

Exciting things are happening at Del Webb Bexley, the 55+ active adult residential community just off Sunlake Boulevard, in Land O’ Lakes.

Earlier this month, the residential community hosted a grand opening for its Community Garden which offers a total of 57 plots, each of which is assigned and looked after by a homeowner.

With the high demand of nearly 100 residents interested in a garden plot, it was decided a lottery would be the best way to assign the plots to homeowners fairly. The lottery system will continue each year, so every homeowner has the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful amenity.

Del Webb Bexley residents are spending their time adding a variety of plants and vegetables to their plots. Each plot has a small annual rental fee, which includes: soil, water and other planting supplies for one year.

Each plot is 4 feet by 12 feet and is a convenient height of 2 feet tall, so residents don’t have to bend over/get on their knees to garden. Each plot is conveniently irrigated with potable water independently and has its own digital controller.

Sixteen-foot by 28-foot shade structures with picnic tables, sinks, counters, and a water foundation were constructed, so residents can take a break, cool off and appreciate the garden’s serenity.

There’s also a storage shed on site for use, providing storage of various garden tools residents may need to perfect their plot, along with a mulch bin area with excess soil for replenishing needs.

Prior to the grand opening, Del Webb Bexley’s Lifestyle and HOA management had the first-ever Garden Club meeting where five resident volunteers were asked to become interim Garden Club leaders, who would assist management in creating the club and community garden guidelines.

“The interim leaders were critical in the success of creating the Garden Club,” says Melisa Sgro, Lifestyle Director for Del Webb Bexley.

The club wasted no time in bringing Chris Carriera, Community Gardens program coordinator/IFAS Pasco Extension to the garden. Carriera attended the Garden Club meeting, talked to the residents, and followed with a Q&A.

“The club plans on getting more expert speakers in the future, and of course, planning happy hours!” says Sgro.

About Del Webb Bexley
Just east of the Gulf Coast beaches and northwest of Tampa, Del Webb Bexley offers easy access to workplaces throughout Tampa Bay and an array of shopping, dining and entertainment options, including the Tampa Premium Outlets.

Del Webb Bexley has made it its mission to transform the idea of “living a fulfilled lifestyle” into an all-encompassing development.

“It’s truly the community here that makes it special; they are people who love life and are having fun living it. Sports, dinner parties, clubs, art, and now gardening, you name it,” says Brittany Young, marketing director.

One unique feature of Del Webb Bexley is its 19,000+ square-foot amenity campus, “The Meridian.” This all-encompassing social and activity hub is the center of operations that brings the entire community together every day.

It is here you can meet for a game of Mahjong, enjoy a snack or watch TV while playing a game of cards. There also are scheduled monthly in-person and virtual events, seminars, and programs.

Inside The Meridian, the Maritime Fitness Center features cardio machines, as well as free weights and weight machines. It sits across from the Floriblanca movement studio that houses all the fitness classes. Outside there are sports courts for tennis, bocce ball and pickleball. The resort pool sits conveniently around the corner with a spa and cabanas. The expansive yoga lawn is always available with coinciding classes for residents, and the entirety of the outdoor region is interconnected by a span of scenic bike and jogging trails.

For those looking to relax, the Bellamy Arts and Crafts Room offers a variety of classes for the pursuit of knowledge or hobbies. The Soleil Royal Ballroom hosts year-round events and houses demonstration kitchens for cooking clubs and classes. The amphitheater on the event lawn does the same for music performances. At the center of it lies the Crow’s Nest Bistro & Sports lounge with its selection of beer, wine, specialty meals, trivia nights, games, and Super Bowl parties.

The Del Webb Bexley sales office and model park, with six professionally decorated models, are open seven days a week for tours. For more information and to learn about current incentives, call 813-412-8842.

Published March 29, 2023

Imagine More at Mattamy Homes’ Area Communities

March 28, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

With every new home community, Mattamy Homes demonstrates their dedication to thoughtful details and meaningful value for their customers. They concentrate on key markets in the U.S. and Canada, selecting superior locations to build new communities. They focus on the intrinsic value of a given area — scenic beauty, natural features, nearby attractions, local culture and accessible conveniences. Then they deliver a variety of floor plans specifically designed for comfort, space, light and air — including the most sought-after features, according to satisfied customers.

That’s a lot of customers, incidentally. Since 1978, Mattamy Homes has been building homes that break the mold with their inspired designs. As the largest privately-owned homebuilder in North America, their commitment to excellence has been evident since the beginning, and numerous Customer Satisfaction awards and Parade of Homes wins are frequent and ongoing reminders. Visit a Mattamy Homes community and you’ll see beautiful streetscapes and exterior styles. Attention to detail is evident inside and outside of each home, with open and airy layouts that include charming, versatile living spaces.

Grand Opening at Chapel Crossings
Mattamy has just opened two new neighborhoods in the popular Wesley Chapel master-planned community located off S.R. 54 and Curley Road.

Timberdale at Chapel Crossings brings Mattamy Homes’ award-winning paired villas to Wesley Chapel with open and airy layouts that truly live like single-family homes. Three paired villa home designs — the Largo, Oceana and Regatta — offer 2 to 3 bedrooms plus a flex room or study. These range from 1,431 square feet to 1,765 square feet and include lawn maintenance for easy living, so you have more time to do what you want. Timberdale features 3 exterior styles for the paired villas — Coastal, Craftsman and Modern. Two professionally-decorated model homes are now open daily.

For those homebuyers looking for single-family homes, Mattamy’s offerings at Asbury at Chapel Crossings include nine single-family home designs from 1,506 square feet to 2,810 square feet and have 2 to 5 bedrooms. Asbury offers two homesite sizes — 40’ wide homesites and 50’ wide homesites.

Asbury has just unveiled one single-family home model. An array of quick move-in homes is available in both neighborhoods for move-in this spring.

“We are thrilled to be part of this exciting new master-planned community — especially since we will be offering three new home types for the needs and wants of today’s homebuyer,” says Kathleen Dec, Director of Marketing for Mattamy Homes’ Tampa and Southwest Florida Division. “Both of these new neighborhoods share an emphasis on curb appeal, well-being and lifestyle that make everyday living a joy.”

Both Mattamy neighborhoods will have Florida Green Building Certification and offer an array of energy-efficient green features and a smart home tech package. All homes will also receive a HERS certification which reflects the energy efficiency and cost savings of each home.

Conveniently located just a short drive from premiere Pasco County destinations such as The Shops at Wiregrass, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and The Tampa Premium Outlets, Chapel Crossings offers the best of Tampa and West Central Florida living.

Chapel Crossings’ amenities are under construction and will offer Mattamy’s Timberdale and Asbury homeowners’ access to a fun-filled clubhouse with a fitness center, a dog park (the perfect place to make your pet’s day), a resort-style pool and a lazy river. These amenities will be a great place to connect with friends, family and neighbors — and give residents access to well-being, sun, shade and happiness all year round.

“Chapel Crossings’ new amenities under construction are meticulously planned, with a relaxing, down-home feel despite being thoroughly modern,” Dec continued. “The lazy river and beach-entry pool are just two ways to spend the summer making new memories.”

This summer, Mattamy Homes also will be opening Twin Creek at Chapel Crossings — an additional neighborhood of stylish townhomes.

Volanti in Wesley Chapel
Located just 4 miles from Interstate 75, off Wesley Chapel Blvd., Volanti offers stylish, low-maintenance townhomes and boasts excellent access to the best of the Wesley Chapel area. Premier shopping and dining destinations include Tampa Premium Outlets, the Grove and The Shops at Wiregrass. An array of quick move-in townhomes is available with special savings. Each of these homes offers beautiful design appointments selected by our professional design team.

Volanti was recently awarded the prestigious 2022 Community of The Year by the Tampa Bay Builders Association.

Four home designs — the Marianna, Ormond, Sebring and Venice — are currently available, ranging from 1,667 square feet to 2,574 square feet, with 3 to 4 bedrooms and 2.5 to 3 baths. All have 1- or 2-car attached garages and large lanais. There are three exterior styles available at Volanti — Craftsman, French Country and Contemporary.

The gated community will have 200 homes at build-out and offers brand-new amenities including a resort-style swimming pool with an open-air pavilion, a barbecue area and a fire pit.

Making the community even more attractive is free lawn maintenance and no Community Development District (CDD) fees.

An array of quick move-in townhomes is available with new lower pricing. Four beautiful models are open for tours daily.

Parkview at Long Lake Ranch in Lutz
Positioned along State Road 54 at Sunlake Boulevard is Parkview at Long Lake Ranch, which offers single-family homes and townhomes. Parkview also has fun-filled amenities including Parkview Pavilion — the hub of the community that features a resort-style pool, shaded breezeway, cabanas and social gathering areas. Residents of this gated community also enjoy a paw park, 2 tot lots and fun park areas. Parkview offers low HOA fees for residents.

There are currently 13 quick move-in single-family homes and townhomes, as well as nine floor plans to choose from — including the Myrtle, which is a thoughtfully crafted 2-story home with 2,713 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 3-car tandem garage.

6 designer-decorated model homes are now open daily,

Citron Grove in Odessa
Mattamy also brings its award-winning townhomes to Odessa at an enclave of 60 new townhomes just off Gunn Highway. This community, Citron Grove, offers unique Craftsman-style townhomes. Two floor plans are available — the Marianna and Ormond. Citron Grove is just 1.5 miles from the Veterans Expressway, 2 miles from Citrus Park Mall and 12 miles from Tampa’s Westshore Business District and International Airport. It’s an easy commute to work or the all the sports, recreation and arts that Tampa offers.

The community includes beautiful, preserved trees and was formerly the Be Mac Nursery. It offers low-maintenance living, value-oriented price points and is zoned for outstanding schools. New lower pricing is now available, and townhomes are ready for move-in. Two decorated model homes are open daily for tours. Special savings are now available.

Now is a great time to buy
It’s now easier than ever to own a new home by Mattamy, who is here to help you every step of the way. For a limited time, Mattamy is currently offering new lower pricing and additional savings for select quick move-in homes that will close by May 30th. This includes new lower pricing on select quick move-in homes, closing cost assistance, and financing programs.

Homebuyers have their choice of an array of quick move-in homes and move-in ready homes available so there is no need to wait. Mattamy invites you to contact a New Home Counselor for more information on these special savings and to learn more about the wide selection of available quick move-in homes.

About Mattamy Homes
Mattamy Homes is the largest, privately owned home builder in North America, with 40-plus years of history across the United States and Canada. Every year, Mattamy helps more than 8,000 families realize their dream of homeownership. In the United States, the company builds homes in Dallas, Charlotte, Raleigh, Phoenix, Tucson, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Sarasota, Naples and Southeast Florida.

For more information about all Mattamy Homes’ local communities, go to mattamyhomes.com/tampa or email .

Published March 29, 2023

6 Reasons to Consider Remodeling your Bathroom with CMK Construction

March 21, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

Have you wanted to remodel your bathroom for a while now, but need that little extra push to make your decision? Check out these six reasons why now is the time:

Increases The Value of Your Home: According to Zillow.com, “Zillow data shows that bathroom remodels yield the biggest returns in terms of boosting your home’s resale value. For minor cosmetic changes, you’ll see a $1.71 increase in home value for every $1 you spend. This includes things like painting and refinishing cabinets, swapping out the mirror or upgrading hardware.”
Increases Energy Efficiency: Would you be surprised to hear that your bathroom is often the room that consumes the most amount of energy? Many of us spend a great deal of time in the bathroom, getting ready for work or an outing with friends. Whether it’s taking a nice long hot shower, running the sink faucet to brush your teeth or wash your hands, or keeping the bathroom lights on for long periods of time, a lot of energy is being used in that room. Switching to water-saving showerheads, faucets and/or toilets, and also energy-efficient lighting can help you save money in the long run.
Fixes Existing Problems: If you aren’t looking to sell your home, remodeling your bathroom is still a great decision because it can fix those pesky problems you notice every time you walk into the bathroom. Give yourself (and your bathroom) peace of mind by fixing those issues.
Increases Storage Space: Homeowners can always use more storage space. A bathroom remodel can help you increase your storage space, making it easier to keep the space organized and more importantly, clutter-free.
Freshens Up The Look: If you’re feeling your bathroom looks outdated or no longer matches your new style, a remodel is the perfect solution. A bathroom remodel can help you create a modern updated, comforting atmosphere in your home, providing a relaxing space to unwind and de-stress.
Improves Safety: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 235,000 people over the age of 15 are injured each year in bathroom accidents, mostly due to slips and falls. With that in mind, incorporating safety into any bathroom remodeling project should be a top priority. Safety features such as grab bars, walk-in bathtubs and shower seats are just a few examples that can be done to make sure your bathroom space is safer, especially if you’re older and/or have mobility issues.

If, after considering those reasons, you’ve decided you’re ready to remodel your bathroom, the next step is to find a professional bathroom remodeler.

Look no further than CMK Construction.

The remodeling company has been serving the Tampa area for more than 19 years and offers customers a personalized experience, from an introductory visit in your home to the company’s 4,000-square-foot showroom to an individual design specialist for each project.

CMK’s professional bathroom remodelers have years of experience and expertise in bathroom renovation. They offer valuable insights into bathroom design, materials and fixtures that you may not be aware of.

The company offers many selections of new bathroom fixtures, accent lighting and more. CMK also offers custom engineering, computer-rendered 3D designs, and eco-friendly products, to name but a few options.

You will select every color, fixture and tile with the help of a certified designer. If you can dream it up, CMK accredited designers can help you make it happen.

If you’re ready to start your bathroom remodeling project, call CMK Construction at 727-800-1644 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, or go to CMKConstructionInc.com.

Published March 21, 2023.

Avalon Applauds African American Club of Pasco

March 7, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

One of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel’s main missions is being a champion for culture.

“Celebrating culture is a vital part of building a community,” says Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of Marketing and Community Relations for Avalon Park Group. “It helps create a sense of place and belonging through strengthening social relationships and fostering empathy.”

This is why Avalon Park Wesley Chapel would like to applaud the African American Club (AAC) of Pasco for the incredible work they are doing to promote an environment that focuses on cultural, social, ethical, educational and creative interests for middle- and high-schoolers in Pasco County.

AAC of Pasco was founded in 1990 by a friend group of African American men, one of them being Eugene Scott, the current president of the club.

“We were just hanging out, watching football, and started to discuss how every time we read the newspaper, there would be bad news and negative publicity about the African American community,” says Scott. “We said to each other, “This doesn’t represent all of us,” so we got together and said, “let’s see what we can do.””

Scott and his friends went to the Pasco County school board to see if they could use a vacant school center, which was once Booker T. Washington School (and also the school Scott attended as a child) located at 6105 Pine Hill Road in Port Richey.

“We went to the board and told them we wanted to change the perception of the African American community,” says Scott.

Pasco County school board said yes, and the rest is history.

AAC of Pasco’s main mission is to nurture the local youth and provide them opportunities to succeed in life. They recognized many children face problems in schools such as drug and alcohol abuse, lack of discipline, supervision, purpose and/or motivation, and wanted to change that. The club wants to provide a safe, open, productive environment for these middle- and high-schoolers.

AAC of Pasco offers a wide range of programs and opportunities. This year, the club is focused on bringing theater (held on Wednesday nights), as well as band and dance (both held on Thursday nights) classes to the kids.

The club bought the instruments and provided them for free to the kids; Scott and the club make sure everything is free of charge for the kids and parents.

And at the end of the year, AAC of Pasco always plans a ‘super trip’ for the kids.

“We’ve taken them to places like Atlanta and Disney World,” says Scott. “We make sure our program and activities are based on what the kids truly enjoy and what they will remember years later.”

And these kids do remember.

A lot of the club’s past members come back as adults, and volunteer at the club, or even bring their own children to be part of the club.

“I appreciate the volunteers that have been there year after year. The support for the club is really appreciated,” says Scott.

Scott encourages any parent who has a child they think might be interested in joining, to stop by the center.

For more information about the African American club of Pasco and how you can help support it, go to aacpascofl.org.

Seniors in Service live up to their name: Serving seniors

March 7, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

Chris Noble recalls when an 82-year-old woman approached him at an event, with tears in her eyes.

She asked him: “Can I be one of those people you call?”

Lily Nichols, Patricia Anguiano, Dana Marroquin and Roy Smith were among the morning volunteers for Seniors in Service. (Courtesy of Pam Plager)

The woman was referring to calls made through a telephone reassurance program called Telepals.

It’s one of the programs offered through Seniors in Service, a nonprofit dedicated to providing solutions to community challenges by engaging volunteers ages 55 and older to help others in need.

Telepals began during COVID-19 to help keep people socially connected, to combat the issue of isolation and loneliness among the elderly.

Participants can choose between long weekly social calls, or short-and-sweet daily check-ins.

Noble is the community engagement manager for Seniors in Service.

Seniors in Service volunteer Ed Datz engages a student with some one-on-one time. (Courtesy of Chris Noble)

As he was talking to the woman who approached him, he learned that the woman’s husband died a couple years ago and was having a tough time connecting with people.

During that conversation, Noble also learned that the woman’s husband was under hospice care, and she had nothing but great things to say about the service he received.

Plus, he found out the woman had experience working in a nursing home.

He suggested they meet at a local hospice, and when they did, she filled out an application.

The hospice workers took it from there.

Fast-forward six months, when Noble gets a call from the woman.

“She said, ‘I want to call and thank you so much for encouraging me to volunteer because it snapped me out of the funk I was in. I made some nice friends, and I have a little more sense of purpose now,’” he said.

Success stories like this one are so rewarding, said Noble, who lives in Dade City.

He firmly believes that volunteering helps others, as well as the volunteers themselves.

“Being engaged and being part of the community and having that camaraderie and that sense of connection with people… it makes you feel good,” Noble said.

When Seniors in Service was founded in 1984, it had 17 employees and about 450 volunteers. Now, it has 34 employees and close to 1,400 volunteers serving Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The nonprofit helps disadvantaged children, frail elders, overwhelmed caregivers, disabled adults, struggling veterans, hungry families and others.

“We primarily began our journey by working with seniors and getting them to go into the public schools to be teacher aides. We called the program ‘Foster Grandparents,’ and it’s still around today,” Noble said.

Just in Hillsborough alone, Seniors in Service has between 200 and 300 volunteers for Foster Grandparents.

Over the years, Seniors in Service has applied for grants, enabling it to broaden its scope and reach more people in need.

Initially, the nonprofit provided help in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. But four years ago, it secured a grant and has branched into Pasco County.

Noble came onboard Seniors in Service when it came to Pasco and was the one to spearhead the Pasco RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) program.

Noble and his team have connected with people in Pasco who are “55 and better” and are looking to give back, and introduce them to Seniors in Service’s community partners.

“We go out into the community and say, ‘Hey, do you have a couple hours to give? We will find you a place to volunteer with one of our community partners who works with other seniors. We will find the right place for you to serve around your schedule and availability,’” Noble said.

Another program Seniors in Service offers is ‘Health Buddies,’ which helps an individual with a chronic illness manage that illness.

“We do it through a medicine called companionship,” Noble said. “We have somebody over a 12-week program provide companionship three to four times a week. They have someone to share that burden with. It has been very powerful and effective.”

Seniors in Service
Where: 1306 W Sligh Ave., Tampa
Details: Seniors in Service, which was founded in 1984, connects volunteers, ages 55 and older, to meet the needs and challenges of at-risk seniors, veterans and children in the community. The nonprofit serves Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties and helps more than 2,500 individuals annually through community service.
For more information or to volunteer, visit SeniorsInService.org, or call Chris Noble at 813-492-8916.

Published March 08, 2023

Avalon applauds PFAC

February 14, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

One of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel’s main missions is being a champion for culture.

This is why Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is a committed partner for PFAC (Pasco Fine Arts Council). PFAC was founded in 1978 by the Pasco County Board of Commissioners, and is dedicated to providing cultural resources to the community and to encourage the knowledge and appreciation of all art forms.

The nonprofit’s center – at 4145 Fairford Drive in New Port Richey – offers art classes such as pottery building and wheeling, watercolor, and oil painting.

“Having a presence outside of just our classes is something I’ve been really pushing for,” says Lianna Tatman, executive director for PFAC.

“We’ve always been a phenomenal resource, but unfortunately, we kind of got a little more insular to where, unless you already knew about us, you couldn’t necessarily find us,” says Tatman. “Somehow we became one of the best kept secrets in Pasco County.”

Tatman studied anthropology in her undergraduate studies, but was frustrated with what was deemed worthy of cultural recognition, which is why she got into arts management.

“The arts is something that’s often overlooked,” said Tatman.

This is why Tatman is so appreciative of PFAC’s partnership with Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. The residential community promotes PFAC through its newsletters and social media, but also is working on building an arts and culture center in downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, which will be the future home of PFAC’s East Pasco center.

“We’re really excited about that. We have a lot of people that reach out to us from the east side of Pasco County that want the services we offer,” says Tatman. “So when we have a facility over in Wesley Chapel, we’ll be able to expand our outreach to even more people.”

“Partnering with someone like Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, where they have the community built right in through the nature of it … it’s a fantastic opportunity for us.”

Other ways Tatman is getting the word out about PFAC is through its monthly Art Walk that takes place every fourth Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., in Downtown New Port Richey. There’s live music, art activities, and shopping for local art.

The nonprofit also helps champion arts and culture through its Kids in Art program, in which it partners with Pasco County Schools to provide yearly art supplies to low income and homeless students, as well as exhibit student artwork.

The next exhibition will take place on March 26, at the nonprofit’s center in New Port Richey, and will display artwork from each grade level, including a special ranking for ESE students. Each grade level will have a first- through third-place winner, as well as overall best in show.

For more information on PFAC and how you can support its initiatives, go to www.PascoArts.org, or call 727-845-7322.

Published February 15, 2023

Mattamy Homes Welcomes Newest Community in Chapel Crossings

January 25, 2023 By Kelli Carmack

Mattamy Homes is excited to open its newest community, Timberdale at Chapel Crossings, in the Chapel Crossings master-planned community in Wesley Chapel.

Timberdale at Chapel Crossings brings Mattamy Homes’ award-winning paired villas to Wesley Chapel with open and airy layouts that truly live like single-family homes. Three paired villa home designs, the Largo, Oceana and Regatta, will offer 2 to 3 bedrooms plus a flex room or study, and range from 1,431 square feet to 1,765 square feet, and include lawn maintenance for easy, low-maintenance living. Timberdale will feature 3 exterior styles for the paired villas – Coastal, Craftsman and Modern. The Modern design is a new and unique exterior that Mattamy is thrilled to bring to Chapel Crossings. Sales for Timberdale at Chapel Crossings will begin in late February, and two decorated model homes are slated to open in early March.

Chapel Crossings amenities include a grand clubhouse perfect for private events, an impressive state-of-the-art fitness center with the most modern equipment, a dedicated dog park — the perfect place to make your pet’s day, and a resort-style pool, as well as its very own lazy river, which is the core of the Chapel Crossings experience. Chapel Crossings will be sure to give its residents sun, shade and happiness all year-round.

“We are thrilled to be a part of this exciting new master-planned community, and especially to be offering three types of new homes to fit the changing needs and wants of today’s homebuyer,” says Kathleen Dec, director of marketing for Mattamy Homes.

“Chapel Crossings has meticulously planned fun amenities that are under construction, with an emphasis on beautiful streetscapes and curb appeal, which is something that Mattamy Homes builds into every community and home.”

This 425-acre master-planned community includes single-family and townhome living in addition to the paired villa homes at Timberdale, as well as retail and office space for added convenience. The goal of this community is to allow its residents to enjoy nature-filled surroundings, with a laid-back, homestead feel and fun-loving “creek chic” style that never gets outdated.

Following Timberdale, Mattamy also will be opening a neighborhood of single-family homes — Asbury at Chapel Crossing. Asbury will offer nine single-family home designs from 1,506 square feet to 2,810 square feet and have 2 to 5 bedrooms. Asbury will begin sales in early March, with a designer-decorated model home opening later in March.

Both Mattamy neighborhoods will have Florida Green Building Certification and offer an array of energy-efficient green features and a smart home tech package.

Mattamy Homes also will be opening an additional neighborhood of stylish townhomes, Twin Creek at Chapel Crossings, in Spring/Summer.

Volanti Wins 2022 Community of The Year
Located just 4 miles from Interstate 75, off Wesley Chapel Blvd., Volanti offers stylish, low-maintenance townhomes and boasts excellent access to the best of the Wesley Chapel area, including premier shopping and dining destinations at Tampa Premium Outlets, the Grove, and The Shops at Wiregrass.

Volanti was recently awarded the prestigious 2022 Community of The Year by the Tampa Bay Builders Association.

Four home designs – the Marianna, Ormond, Sebring and Venice – are currently available, ranging from 1,667 square feet to 2,574 square feet, with 3 to 4 bedrooms and 2.5 to 3 baths. All have 1- or 2-car attached garages and large lanais. There are three exterior styles available at Volanti — Craftsman, French Country and Contemporary.

The gated community will have 200 homes at build out, and fun-filled, family friendly amenities, including a resort-style swimming pool with an open-air pavilion, a barbecue area and a fire pit.

Making the community even more attractive is free lawn maintenance, and no Community Development District (CDD) fees.

Four beautiful models are open for tours daily, with private appointments available.

Move-In Ready Homes Available at Parkview at Long Lake Ranch
Positioned along State Road 54 at Sunlake Boulevard is Parkview at Long Lake Ranch, which offers single-family homes and townhomes. Parkview also has fun-filled amenities at its amenity center, Parkview Pavilion, that features a resort-style pool, shaded breezeway, cabanas and social gathering areas. Residents of this gated community also enjoy a paw park for dogs, tot lots and fun park areas. Parkview offers low HOA fees for residents.

There are currently 18 move-in ready homes and townhomes, as well as nine floor plans to choose from, including the Myrtle, which is a thoughtfully crafted 2-story home with 2,713 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 3-car tandem garage.

Parkview at Long Lake Ranch has 6 designer-decorated model homes that are open daily.

Citron Grove
Mattamy Homes also brings its award-winning townhomes to Odessa at an enclave of 60 new townhomes just off Gunn Highway. This community, Citron Grove, offers distinctive Craftsman-style townhomes. Two floor plans are available — the Marianna and Ormond. Citron Grove is just 1.5 miles from the Veterans Expressway, 2 miles from Citrus Park Mall and 12 miles from Tampa’s Westshore Business District and International Airport. The community includes a number of trees and was formerly the Be Mac Nursery. It offers low-maintenance living, value-oriented price points and is zoned for outstanding schools. Two decorated model homes are open daily for tours.

Now is the Time to Buy
Mattamy Homes is now offering generous financing programs buying down mortgage interest rates and closing cost incentives paying most, and in some cases, all closing costs for a limited time at its Tampa area communities. There are also a number of quick move-in homes under construction so buyers can move in sooner, including homes that are already completed. Mattamy invites you to contact a Mattamy New Home Counselor for more information on these special savings and to learn more about the wide selection of available quick move-in homes.

For more information about all of Mattamy Homes’ local communities, go to MattamyHomes.com/tampa.

Published January 25, 2023

Where To Find Great Gift Deals This Holiday Season

December 20, 2022 By Kelli Carmack

Need some inspiration for some last-minute Christmas shopping ideas that also help support local businesses? We got you covered!

B&B Theatres – Wesley Chapel The Grove 16
Whether you’re shopping for the ultimate movie buff, the person who claims they “already have everything,” or for the perfect gift for the whole family to enjoy, surprise them with movie tickets to Wesley Chapel The Grove 16!

With so many amazing films coming to the big screen – such as Avatar: The Way of Water, Puss in Boots, and Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania – there’s sure to be something for everyone’s liking.

Best part? You can skip the in-store, crazy long lines by purchasing the gift cards from the comfort of your computer, or phone. In five short minutes, you’ll have a fantastic gift to give out this holiday season.

Gift cards can be used for movies, popcorn, candy and more. B&B Theatres at The Grove 16 is a dine-in theater featuring adult beverages on tap, and heated reclining seats.

Be sure to follow B&B Theatres Wesley Chapel on Facebook, as the movie theater is constantly offering fun bingo and trivia nights, $5 movie nights and specials for Backstage Pass members, showing classic retro movies that take you back in time, and so much more. The theater also has a full arcade for children to enjoy. And, you can schedule birthday parties and private events at B&B Theatres at The Grove 16, too.

Heights Meat Market
Food always makes a great gift, and Heights Meat Market — a premium meat market with four locations in Tampa Bay (including right here in Land O’ Lakes, at 5132 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Unit 105) — is offering three Holiday Box options to gift to your meat-loving friends!

The Silver Box (which retails for $95) comes with 2 – 8 oz Black Angus Sirloins, 1 – 8 oz Black Angus Filet, 1 – 14 oz Black Angus Strip, 1 – 16 oz Black Angus Ribeye, and a small High Octane rub.

The Gold Box (which retails for $160) comes with 2 – 8 oz American Wagyu Sirloins, 1 – 6 oz Australian Wagyu Filet, 1 – 14 oz American Wagyu Ribeye, 1 – 8 oz Australian Wagyu Denver Steak, and a large High Octane Rub.

The Platinum Box (which retails for $250) comes with 1 – 6 oz Japanese Wagyu Filet, 1 – 16 oz Japanese Wagyu Ribeye, 1 – 14 oz Australian Wagyu Ribeye, and a large High Octane Rub.

In addition to the holiday boxes, Heights Meat Market also is selling four small Heights’ rubs for $30 and three large Heights’ rubs for $50.

For more information, go to HeightsMeatMarket.com or call 813-388-9118.

Abela Story + CO
That personal touch is what you will find the minute you walk into Abela Story + Co.

Located at the west entrance of Starkey Ranch Community on SR 54 and Trinity Boulevard, Abela Story + Co is a one-of-a-kind women’s boutique.

The boutique is designed to make the customer feel effortlessly stunning and cozy at the same time. From flip-flops and shorts to heels and black ties, its goal is to dress its customer from head to toe with a super fun and laid-back shopping experience. The boutique’s aims to bring you quality and affordable gems, catering to all its amazing customers and offering a wide variety of styles and prices so nobody feels like the boutique is out of reach.

Display tables are overflowing with accessories, racks are elegantly hung with stylish dresses and tops, and a marigold velvet cushioned bench faces a huge round mirror where you can sit and try on your Dolce Vita or Steve Madden shoes. A play area gives your little ones a place to hang out while you shop.

The boutique offers luxury jean brands such as Judy Blue, Great American and Vervet, and also sells Spanx that you can wear underneath. Local Tampa designer Marrin Costello entices you to try on her designs. Abela Story + Co even offers a custom design line of clothing that is made of butter soft fabric, such as its winter “shackets” that will keep you warm and stylish.

You can shop through the website at Abelastory.com. There also is an app to download where you can watch Abela’s live sales and shop the replay videos. On your app store, search Abela Story + Co.

Lanky Lassie’s Shortbread
Lanky Lassie’s Shortbread, a local bakery in Dade City known for its delicious handmade, all natural delicacies, has a most scrumptious gift for your sweet-toothed loved ones.

If you prefer to just have one of those specific Holiday-flavored shortbread, you can order a bag with just that flavor in it, for $20.

Lanky Lassie’s Shortbread is handmade by the batch with all natural ingredients and goes great with a good cup of coffee, a cold glass of milk or a spot of afternoon tea. Its shelf life is surprisingly long, IF you can muster the willpower to resist indulging. It comes in a resealable bag and lasts up to four weeks on the shelf and six-plus months in the freezer.

You’ve never tasted anything like Lanky Lassie’s shortbread, which is a buttery crusted edge, soft-centered, melt-in-your-mouth delight.

For more information on Lanky Lassie’s Holiday Tin, as well as all the products it sells, go to LLShortbread.com or call (352) 424-8937.

Garden Shop
Now, this is a deal you can’t beat!

Garden Shop — at 7337 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. – is currently offering 60% off EVERYTHING in its store. This is due to the store temporarily closing its doors on Dec. 22, in anticipation of reopening on a much larger scale in the future.

Garden Shop in Land O’ Lakes brings its love for all things natural by providing unique gifts of wellness that nature has to offer – in a way that is carefully crafted for the home.

The store’s focus is on houseplants that stand alone, as indoor decor. The shop also features driftwood carefully crafted with natural elements of moss, plants, shells, wood flowers and more.

Every avenue you can explore while visiting – essential oils, hand soaps, candles, bug repellent, lip balm, lotions, salt scrubs – will all lead back to the importance of plants.

The Garden Shop welcomes you to visit its serene tropical paradise one last time, and find the perfect holiday gift for your plant-loving friends.

Save On Energy Costs With Renewal By Andersen® Of Florida

December 20, 2022 By Kelli Carmack

As the winter months and the new year approach, Florida residents likely will get hit with higher electric bills as utilities continue to struggle with increased costs of natural gas.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, it is expected that the residential price of electricity will average 14.9 cents per kilowatt-hour in 2022 — an 8% increase from 2021. This is largely due to an increase in wholesale power prices, which are driven by higher natural gas prices.

The department also believes that wholesale electricity prices at major power trading hubs will be about 20% to 60% higher on average this winter.

As prices go up, it makes sense that you might be eyeing your energy bill with the intent to slash the cost, if at all possible.

And if that’s the case, you might be wondering: Can I save much money by switching to more energy-efficient windows?

With Renewal by Andersen® of Florida, you absolutely can!

“Energy-efficient windows are an important consideration for both new and existing homes,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy. “Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.”

Specifically, your window might cause you to lose energy (and money) if it is outdated, has a cracked frame or sill, features a single pane, was installed improperly, or doesn’t include weatherstripping.

So you know you can save money with Renewal by Andersen® of Florida, but the real question is, how much?

Well, as reported by ENERGY STAR*, residents in the Southern region of the United States can experience the following energy savings when they replace their windows with a more energy-efficient model:

Replacing a single-pane window: $280 per year (a total of 31%)
Replacing a double-pane window: $126 per year (a total of 17%)

So, what are the elements of an “energy-efficient window”?

The first element to consider is the glass itself. A single-pane window is not designed to efficiently deflect sunlight or insulate your home. A dual pane window, however, is capable of optimizing your energy use at home thanks to both the high-quality materials and insulating gas found between the panes.

The second element to consider is the window framing. If your window frame is not well insulated, it can be easily penetrated by moisture or is likely to be cracked by outside forces, it is not providing you with optimal energy efficiency.

Renewal by Andersen® of Florida offers revolutionary Coastal Impact windows. Tested exhaustively and designed to withstand the harshest of weather environments, these windows are energy-efficient, durable, and capable of preventing water intrusion. They also are resistant to salt-water exposure, particularly for those who reside closer to the shoreline(s).

What’s more, its Coastal Impact windows feature a weathertight seal, a strong and sleek Fibrex® frame (which is vastly superior to even that of vinyl and offers 700 times better insulation than aluminum), highly-lauded thermal performance, innovative components that minimize both shrinking and expanding, and more!

In short, these windows offer the ideal blend of functionality, safety and beauty all in one, thereby ensuring you are investing in only the best for your home and family.

Last but certainly not least, the installation job itself must be taken into account. After all, if not properly installed, your home may be subject to all sorts of window-related drafts and leaks, thereby decreasing your overall energy efficiency.

That’s why Renewal by Andersen® of Florida’s team offers unparalleled results in terms of both customer service and revolutionary products!

To learn more about how you can lower your energy bill costs, reach out to the Renewal by Andersen® of Florida team today by calling 855-830-2420.

*Energy Star reports ranges are based on the average savings among homes in modeled cities. Actual savings will vary based on local climate conditions, utility rates, and individual home characteristics.

Understanding SEER2 and What It Means For Homeowners

December 13, 2022 By Kelli Carmack

Big changes are coming to the air conditioning industry ever since the Department of Energy announced the new SEER2 rating. Read on to learn more about this change and what Cornerstone Pros is doing about it.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is the way an air conditioner is rated for its energy efficiency. SEER is the ratio of the total heat removed from the air-conditioned space during the annual cooling season divided by the total electrical energy consumed by the air conditioner during the same season. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy it takes to run the system and keep your house cool.

Starting on Jan. 1, 2023, the Department of Energy (DOE) is changing the way heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are tested by introducing a new SEER rating called: SEER2. The federal minimum SEER will increase by 1 point for all regions.

According to Seer2.com, “to meet requirements in the southeast region, residential central air systems below 45,000 British Thermal Unit (Btu) must have a SEER2 rating of 14.3 (15.0 SEER). Residential central air systems 45,000 Btu and above must have a SEER rating of 13.8 (14.5 SEER). In addition, heat pumps in any region must meet 14.3 SEER2 (15.0 SEER).”

So, how does this affect homeowners?
“With this new act, all manufacturers have to re-rate all their lines of equipment,” says Dana Spears, owner of Cornerstone Pros.

“A lot of the manufacturers have gone in and re-manufactured the equipment for the SEER2 ratings. We’re being told we’re going to see a 20% to 40% price increase in 2023.”

What Spears is also finding is that a lot of homebuilders are buying the equipment in bulk, so service-based providers like Cornerstone Pro, are having a difficult time finding equipment.

“There’s already been shortages anyway for the industry due to COVID and shipping costs, so we’re already seeing shortages, but now with this big change coming in, we’re also probably going to have some limited supplies on these new changeovers, and phase-outs and phase-ins,” says Spears.

“It’s something the homeowners need to know.”

The good news is, Cornerstone Pros is a Carrier dealer. Carrier was founded by Willis Carrier, who invented modern air conditioning in 1902.

“Carrier has been on the forefront because they had rated a lot of their equipment higher to begin with. When they went into their re-ratings, they didn’t have to make a lot of adjustments to their products,”says Spears.

“They’re very prepared for this transition, so we’re thankful for that. We feel that the Carrier brand and the Cornerstone brand go hand-in-hand as far as quality and meeting customers’ expectations.”

Cornerstone Pros is still allowed to install any heat pump systems made at the 2022 pricing, until the company runs out of that equipment. Then, it will have to charge the 2023 pricing. As for the Straight Cool Split System A/Cs, Cornerstone Pros will have to go straight into the SEER2 pricing.

Reflecting on all the changes in the world these last couple of years, Spears recognizes that this SEER2 is another bump in the road for all parties.

“We empathize, and are dedicated and committed to continue to serve our customers through these different phrases,” says Spears.

Spears recommends if you’re looking to replace your A/C unit to do it as soon as possible, before the prices increase.

For more information on the SEER2 changes and to learn how Cornerstone Pros can help you navigate through it, CornerstonePros.com, or call 813-945-7891.

Kelli Carmack

Grand Opening at Chapel Crossings Mattamy has just opened two new neighborhoods in the popular Wesley Chapel master-planned community located off S.R. 54 and Curley Road.

Grand Opening at Chapel Crossings
Mattamy has just opened two new neighborhoods in the popular Wesley Chapel master-planned community located off S.R. 54 and Curley Road.