The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

This shop creates tapestry of happy memories

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Donna Lillibridge soon will close Quilts on Plum Lane — “The Friendliest Quilt Shop in Florida’’ — and life in downtown Dade City may never be quite the same.

After 17 years in business, Lillibridge simply believes it’s time to go.

It’s not because of COVID-19, she just wants time.

Time to organize her home, do some yardwork, hike new trails, go kayaking and make more memories with her family, including three grown children who live in the area.

She also will keep quilting, just for fun.

This sign welcomes quilting enthusiasts to Dade City’s Quilts on Plum Lane. (Joey Johnston)

But saying goodbye for good? It’s a bit more difficult than she imagined.

The shop has been a mingling place for friends, acquaintances and strangers — a 1,900-square-foot town square, where precious keepsakes were created, quilting classes were held and permanent relationships were forged.

“My goal was not just to sell fabric — anyone can do that,’’ Lillibridge said. “I wanted to help them be successful, so they can come back and do more. If they got stuck or didn’t quite know what they were doing, they could come here and learn. We have had very good teachers here. And, we’ve had so much fun along the way.’’

Lillibridge moved from her native California in 1971, first becoming a classroom teacher in Hillsborough County, then settling into a 30-year stint as a psychologist for Pasco County Schools. Along the way, she revived an interest in quilting, a way to be creative and pass the time, but the quilt shop she frequented was about to close.

“I’m not very good at sitting around,’’ Lillibridge said. “I need to keep busy.’’

She took a chance, opening a quilt shop of her own.

The name? It has a backstory.

When Lillibridge was 4 years old, she remembers walking a few blocks to her grandfather’s house for ice cream. It was a dark and spooky night. Her older brother was too scared to go. She traversed a little dirt alley, surrounded by plum trees. It seemed frightening for a child, but she got the ice cream and made it home.

“You have to take risks to get something you want,’’ Lillibridge said. “That’s why I named it ‘Quilts on Plum Lane.’ It reminds me of taking risks. And, it was definitely a risk. During the recession (2008), I had to borrow money off my house. It was dicey. But we made it. And it came back strong.”

Lillibridge said she will miss the little things — such as carrying flannel and personally dyeing the wool that attracted people from all around Central Florida. She will miss the women — and sometimes their husbands — who started by tentatively cutting the fabric, then got hooked on the craft. She even will miss dealing with various sales representatives, discovering new products and patterns, and finding a way to remain unique.

Donna Lillibridge’s customers and friends gave her a quilt to salute her 17-year tenure at Quilts on Plum Lane.

It always comes back to the people. She will miss the people.

“If you need something and they don’t have it, they go get it,’’ longtime customer Diane Alexander said. “I don’t know what I’ll do now. It’s like part of my life is going away.’’

“I think we’re going to be sorely missed,’’ said Darlene Leosh, who works at the shop. “If there was a class or presentation, Donna was there. If pillowcases were needed at the hospital, she headed that up. If somebody needed a gift basket, she was there.

“I’m trying not to think about the end — because the end isn’t here yet. But, when Donna retires, she can come to quilt camps with us. We can have more time to stitch together. We have enough fabric to last us a few lifetimes. The whole thing is about friendship and making new friends.’’

That was always the philosophy of Lillibridge, who lives three blocks away from the shop with her rambunctious golden doodle, Lola.

“This is a business and you have to be smart about it,’’ Lillibridge said. “You don’t order just what you like. You order what the customers want. You strive to give service that you don’t find at the big-box stores,” said the shop owner, who hasn’t decided the exact day Quilts on Plum Lane will close.

“When you quilt, you have something physical to show for it. Something that lasts. It’s not like playing golf,” Lillibridge said. “It’s a communal thing.”

As part of the send-off, Lillibridge’s co-workers, customers and friends gave her (what else?) a quilt filled with special messages, a tapestry of love that commemorates her contributions to the tight-knit hobby.

“My favorite shop and the best people ever!!! Thanks for being here. Happy times to you!!” — Catherine Coggins.

“Loved every minute and every stitch is precious.” — Becky Gammons.

“Have loved your shop and your girls. Enjoy your future.” — Marilyn Morey.

“Learned so much. Thanks for your support. God bless you much.” — Judith Harris.

“Have a great retirement. You so deserve it.” — Vicki Paquette.

“I am going to miss you Donna and your lovely shop. Have a great retirement and stay healthy.” — Dianne Penney.

Long after the shop closes, the warmth of the quilters’ words will live on.

By Joey Johnston

Published July 15, 2020

This award winner is equally at ease in a barn, or a classroom

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Camryn Farquhar, an athlete and a scholar, keeps picking up awards.

Recently, she was named Pasco County’s Career Technical Education High School Student of the Year.

She also was named Wesley Chapel High School’s Outstanding Senior.

The barn makes a perfect backdrop, as Camryn Farquhar sports her Future Farmers of America jacket. (Courtesy of Camryn Farquhar)

And, those are just the latest of her many accolades.

She loves the classroom.

But, she feels most at home in the barn.

She grew up with horses. She used to raise hogs. Now it’s more about showing livestock, connecting with cows and learning all she can about the dairy industry.

“But, this is more than just farming,’’ Farquhar said.

The agriculture lifestyle, through the Future Farmers of America (FFA), includes training in business, leadership and public speaking. It included a stint as Champion Youth Ambassador for the Florida State Fair. It has propelled her to the University of Florida, where she plans a major in agricultural communications and education.

“When you say FFA, people sometimes have a preconceived idea of what it’s all about,’’ said Farquhar, who carried a 4.5 GPA and served in student government. “The truth is, it’s very important that the general public know about this industry. “It’s really important.

“It’s always nice to get honors, but I think it’s especially nice to be recognized in a field with so many great kids at our school and so many great kids throughout the county. I was just over the moon to be selected.’’

Farquhar, who competed in cross-country for Wesley Chapel and remains an active runner, always remembers being surrounded by animals. But, her interest really began when her mother, Erin, became an agriculture teacher.

Her mom came to the field by accident.

“I didn’t realize there were agriculture teacher jobs,’’ said Farquhar’s mother, a former special education teacher. “I was saying, ‘Why is there a barn at school?’ “But, when I stumbled into it and changed jobs, I immediately fell in love with it. It combines teaching with animals and plants. It probably would’ve been my passion earlier had I known it existed,” she said.

“It’s not like Camryn was pushed into this. She always had a natural interest. I know she got an award once and someone said, ‘Of course she did. Her mother is the ag teacher.’ But truly, she has made her own path. It’s not like we go home, sit around the kitchen table and talk about agriculture. She has developed this interest on her own.’’

Farquhar is the oldest (by 10 minutes) of triplets, along with siblings Ryan and Tifani, who are both headed to Florida State University. Ryan, who plays lacrosse and dabbles in FFA, plans a sports management major. Tifani, a projected criminology major, is best known as a standout diver, although she, too, has competed in FFA, but not to Camryn’s extent.

“We get compared to each other a lot, even though we are really different,’’ Farquhar said. “I think it’s an example of three people finding things they love and are passionate about, then following through. It’s not that one is better than the other. It’s just what you’re interested in.

“There were definitely advantages to having my mother be the (agriculture) teacher, but maybe some negative experiences, too, just an assumption that things were given to me. She has helped me and inspired me, but I worked pretty hard for everything I’ve done. It has mostly come about because I’ve loved it so much,” she said.

COVID-19 brought about a different way of celebrating Farquhar’s honors.

She learned of the CTE award (which included nominees from robotics, automotive, health and video production programs) through a Zoom call with school officials, including Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning. At Wesley Chapel, the Outstanding Senior award was noted by administrators delivering balloons, flowers and confetti poppers, along with plenty of mentions on social media.

Farquhar had been a well-decorated performer before, having earned honors at the Florida State Fair and Pasco County Fair, along with being selected to a state dairy judging group.

“These awards bring more focus to our program and that’s great,’’ Farquhar’s mother said. “We’re trying to foster a love of agriculture for the kids. They can learn about nutrition, developing foods, animal systems, environmental protections, and maybe that could become a career. At the very least, they will become more educated and become better consumers. We’re thrilled when agriculture is seen in that light and part of all aspects of school, not just having a notion that they’re just the ‘cowgirls.’

“I think Camryn was very honored just to be nominated. She was humbled by that. To actually be selected was very touching and meaningful.”

By Joey Johnston

Published July 15, 2020

Caring for dad comes naturally for Vizzari sons

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Vince Vizzari, a retired City of Tampa firefighter, was always there for his three sons. He coached them in baseball. He worked with them in Boy Scouts. He was available to help with a project or share some family time.

Life changed dramatically for Vizzari on Jan. 23, 2018, when he suffered a massive stroke that affected his speech and mobility.

And now, the three Vizzari sons — Tony, Mike and Tim — are always there for the dad.

After the initial care and rehabilitation, there was no question about the road ahead for Vizzari. A specialized facility or nursing home was available, but the sons wouldn’t hear of that. Their dad was coming home.

The Vizzari sons, from left: Tim, Michael and Tony, gather around their dad, Vince, who suffered a massive stroke in 2018. The brothers have juggled other obligations, to rally around their dad. (Courtesy of Lonna Vizzari)

To make that work, they have done anything needed to assist, lightening the load on Vizzari’s wife, Lonna, and drawing the family even closer.

Tony (a retired firefighter), Mike (an active fire captain) and Tim (who operates the family’s landscaping business) are juggling their work and family obligations to help care for their dad, 73. Everyone lives close in the Lutz area. They are in constant communication to schedule their time and make sure they can help with chores or simply spend time with their dad.

“They are devoted to their father and always have been,’’ Lonna said. “They do whatever is needed, without complaint, and I derive so much comfort from that.

“It warms my heart. It just brings tears to my eyes, to see that kind of love. Each one does something different with their dad. I always know I can call them and their families also to drop what they are doing if I need them.’’

Vizzari’s left side is much weaker now. If he’s pulled over to the side of the bed, he can sit up. He’s aware of his surroundings and can say some words, including his wife’s name, but has trouble writing.

He needs a wheelchair to get around, and one of the sons takes him outside nearly every day, where he enjoys watching the birdfeeder or maybe one of his grandchildren playing at the lake. While inside, he loves watching western movies or television shows.

In 1996, while working for the fire department, Vizzari suffered a heart attack. For a while, he was reassigned to office duty until he retired on disability. Still, he continued owning a pest control business and taking care of his own mother, 92-year-old Marie, who lived in his home.

The stroke changed everything — and nothing.

“We have always been close to him, and we still are,’’ Tony said. “We’re just doing what we’re supposed to do. Family comes first.’’

“Our dad has always been a jokester, a people person, the kind of guy who helped anyone he could,’’ Tim said. “Things could be a lot worse, but they could also be better. We all want to do whatever we can for him because he deserves that.’’

At the time of the stroke, Tim and his wife were finalizing plans to become foster parents to three children, joining their two biological kids. Life’s complications can appear overwhelming, but it all seems to work.

Vizzari’s positive attitude a major plus
“He’s a great patient,’’ Tony said. “He smiles and laughs every day. He says ‘thank you’ to each of us every day.

“I’d like him to be able to transfer into his wheelchair on his own. Obviously, any extra communication would be a goal. There’s room for improvement, and we will continue to work at it. But, he has the right attitude. He keeps trying, so we keep trying with him.’’

When one of his sons arrives, Vizzari usually smiles and gives a victory hand signal.

“He might not be able to say some words, but you can go by the expression in his eyes,’’ Tim said. “When the grandkids are there, his whole world lights up. He tries to say things, but sometimes it doesn’t come out like he wants.

“It can be a stressful situation, but we all love that we can be there for him and help out. It’s about helping out our mom, too. She’s more of a trooper than anyone. She doesn’t give up, no matter how difficult it might seem.’’

In the last few months, Vizzari’s wife has utilized some caregiver help, usually in the mornings. But, nothing replaces the presence of Vizzari’s sons.

“What they have done for their father, what they have done for me, is something that should be honored,’’ she said. “They are devoted to us. They have their own families and responsibilities, but they make time.

“We are blessed to have a close family. We always had dinners and big get-togethers. We have always supported each other. This is just another example, an extreme example. Vince has improved in a lot of ways, and I think what the boys have done is a big reason for that.’’

By Joey Johnston

Published July 15, 2020

Dade City reopens lobby for utility customers

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The City of Dade City has announced the reopening of its City Hall municipal building for utility customers to make payments, with some added restrictions and limited capacity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city also has announced that anyone entering the City Hall lobby will be required to wear a face covering at all times, unless the visitor is exempt under a recently adopted Pasco County executive order mandating face coverings in all businesses and government buildings.

All visitors must observe social distancing guidelines of at least 6 feet. Visitors to the building will not be allowed to remain in the lobby unless conducting business, according to a news release.

Hand-sanitizing stations are located at the customer service windows. The city asks customers wishing to meet with specific staff in person request an appointment, but walk-in customers are allowed. Residents can request an appointment by calling (352) 523-5050 and ask for the department that is needed.

Also, late fees have been reinstated for missed utility payments, effective July 6. Effective Aug. 1, turn-offs for nonpayment will resume.

As the city resumes normal operations, customers may continue and are encouraged to use no-contact payment options. However, customers will be responsible for convenience fee charges by the credit card processor for paying online or over the phone.

Other payment options are also available.

The drop box is available for non-cash payments. Payments also may be mailed to P.O. Box 1355, Dade City, FL, 33526.

The city says it will make other adjustments as needed, as conditions and further guidance develops from the pandemic.

For more information, visit DadeCityFl.com, or call (352) 523-5050.

Published July 08, 2020

Pasco commissioners receive honors

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Pasco County Commissioners Kathryn Starkey and Jack Mariano each have a Presidential Advocate award from the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) for their work during the 2020 legislative session.

The commissioners were recognized during the association of counties’ annual business meeting, which was conducted virtually, according to a news release.

“As a local government official, I believe the effectiveness of FAC cannot be overstated,” Starkey said, in the release. “The organization does a great job at uniting local voices from across the state in Tallahassee, and I am honored to have contributed to this advocacy.”

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a leader amongst my peers,” Commissioner Jack Mariano, said in a release.

The award the elected Pasco officials received is bestowed to county commissioners who have shown exceptional leadership in advocating with FAC during the 2020 session to advance the counties’ legislative agenda.

“It’s our duty as commissioners to stand up for our community, to fight to preserve the unique aspects of where we live, work, and play,” said FAC Immediate Past President and Leon County Commissioner Nick Maddox. “This responsibility is only heightened during the Legislative Session where hundreds of bills are heard that directly impact that quality of life.”

Mariano has been designated as an Advanced Certified County Commissioner by the Florida Association of Counties and a Certified County Commissioner by the same group.

He will serve as a policy leader on the Florida Association of Counties Water & Environmental Sustainability Policy Committee for the upcoming 2020-2021 Fiscal Year, the release says.

Starkey has been active in FAC since being elected to District 3 of the Pasco County Commission in 2012. She chairs the FAC Federal Policy Committee and is the District 20 Representative to the FAC Board of Directors.

She also helped lead FAC’s fall 2019 “Federal Fly-in,” which created channels of communication between local officials and federal policymakers in Washington D.C., to discuss national issues, such as flood insurance.

Published July 08, 2020

Downtown Law Firm Experience Now Available in North Tampa

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Partners Grace, Bavol, Bleakley & Denman.

By William Jacko

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

When people need a good lawyer, they often turn to a big downtown firm. With the opening of its new building in North Tampa, Bleakley Bavol Denman & Grace now provides this big-firm quality and prestige for Pasco and North Hillsborough residents.

“We’re right on the corner of Florida and Bearss. We’re convenient for people who want the service that a well-established Tampa firm offers, but don’t want the hassle of having to go downtown,” said Jonathan Newlon, partner.

Although BBD&G represents many large commercial and institutional clients, it also is devoted to representing smaller businesses and individuals. Newlon specializes in estate and tax planning, probate and trust administration and litigation, guardianship and fiduciary litigation, and family law litigation.

He also specializes in listening to his clients.

“What I pride myself most on is paying attention to what people actually want,” said Newlon. “I make sure I sit down and listen to the clients, and try to understand exactly what they want.”

Newlon grew up in rural Pasco County in San Antonio. His small-town roots give him an affinity for Pasco and North Tampa, and many of his clients are from this area.

Newlon deals largely with death and divorce, and advises prospective clients to seek general advice early to help them in their decision-making process.

“I’ve had a lot of people come in and talk to me about a divorce,” said Newlon.  “Sometimes I don’t hear from them again.  Other times I’ll hear from them a year later, and they say, ‘I’m glad that I didn’t pull the trigger rashly before.’ Most of the time those people are grateful that I listened to them and gave them some options, instead of just saying, ‘OK, hire me, and let’s do this.’ There’s nothing wrong with going to get some advice and then not doing anything with it other than thinking about it.”

Clients can feel confident in the advice they receive at BBD&G.  The firm has received a prestigious AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the gold standard in the legal ratings business.

“The A represents the legal skill and capabilities that we have here, and A is obviously the highest rating that you can have. The V stands for the highest ethical rating that you can have, so the AV rating is considered a preeminent rating of lawyers in the Martindale-Hubbell system,” explains Newlon.

Many of BBD&G’s partners gained experience working for big downtown law firms before founding BBD&G, and Newlon considers that big-firm experience a valuable asset.

“We can deliver that level of service and legal skill, and at the same time, we know that people ultimately want to be treated like people. We all appreciate family, fellowship and civic duty. We’re a firm that has a lot of legal acumen, but that also really enjoys helping our clients,” said Newlon.

The firm welcomes visitors to its North Tampa office, but is also prepared to assist clients abiding by COVID-19 safety recommendations.

“We have all kinds of tech capacity, including large conference rooms with large screens for video conferencing, “ said Newlon. “My advice is to get guidance sooner rather than later, and we have the tech capacity to allow people to do that now without having to compromise their health.”

813-221-3759 • www.bbdglaw.com

Published on 7/1/20

Three Generations of Cabinet Makers

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By Kelli Carmack

Ever since he was a young child, Jerry Moates Jr. has been in the cabinet business. His father, Jerry Moates Sr., opened Statewide Custom Cabinets in 1972, and would bring his namesake with him to work whenever he could.

“I went on Saturdays and just hung out with him until he got off work,” said Jerry Jr., who is now the owner of the Zephyrhills cabinet shop.

And, when Jerry Jr. had children of his own, he continued his father’s tradition and brought his two sons to the shop. Today, Jerry III and Allen are grown, and work with their dad in the family business.

Statewide Custom Cabinets specializes in residential and commercial cabinets and surface top installations. The company offers free estimates, and it’s not unusual to see a customer the same day they call the office for a quote.

The company is very price competitive, especially compared to big box stores, because it also is a manufacturer, which is a rare thing to find today in the cabinet business.

“The benefit of being your own manufacturer is that you can build the way you want to ensure quality, and can build to a customer’s custom sizes,” said Jerry Jr. “Plus, our turnaround is faster, and depending on the size of a job, the demolition and installation process is usually just a day or two.”

Statewide Custom Cabinets recently opened a new showroom so customers can see and feel the different styles of cabinet and surface tops it sells. Because of social distancing, currently only one customer is allowed in the showroom at a time, and it is thoroughly sanitized before the next customer enters.

One of the most popular cabinet styles that customers are buying is shaker-white, which has very simple, clean lines that looks great in kitchens, especially with light countertops.

For countertops, customers are choosing quartz, which is extremely durable, low-maintenance and easy to clean.

“Quartz is the best cabinet top you can get,” said Jerry Jr. “But, not everyone can afford quartz or granite, so we also offer high definition (HD) laminate, which gives the look of granite at the fraction of the cost.”

Laminate is dramatically different than what it used to be, explains Jerry Jr. “It is three to five times harder than the original laminate, plus it is scratch-resistant,” he said.

At the end of the day, giving exceptional customer service is the Moates family primary goal, and is why they have built cabinets for generations of the same family. And, it’s why Jerry Jr. and his sons always stay busy.

“One day we’re building something for a hospital, or it might be building for a doctor’s office, a dentist office, or a veterinarian office, and the day after that, we could be working in a mobile home,” said Jerry Jr. “It’s been a very rewarding business for me and my family.”

38535 Palm Grove Drive, Zephyrhills, FL 33542 • StatewideCabinets.com

• (813) 788-3856

Published on 7/1/20

Prepare now for above-normal hurricane season

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Experts are predicting an above-normal 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season — and you can reduce your risks by being prepared.

The following lists, compiled from disaster preparedness guides assembled by Hillsborough and Pasco counties, as well as other sources, are intended to help you prepare now to protect yourself and your property from destructive hurricane winds.

It’s a good idea to stay informed when a hurricane threatens. Both Pasco County and Hillsborough County have alert systems, which can keep you abreast of threats. To find out more, visit PascoCountyFl.net and HillsboroughCounty.org.

Annette Rogers, of Land O’ Lakes, shovels sand to fill several sandbags at the self-service station set up by Pasco County, in the parking lot of the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The government agency set up several stations throughout the county, offering free sand and sandbags. Two years ago, Rogers’ property experienced minimal flooding during Hurricane Irma and she was taking no chances for this storm. (File)
Plan how you will evacuate, in the event you are ordered to do so.

 

Stay safe around water, prevent drowning deaths

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There’s been an uptick in service calls relating to near drownings, according to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.

To stay safe near water and reduce potential drowning deaths, the Sheriff’s Office offers these suggestions:

  • Make sure children are supervised at all times while around water. A child can drown within seconds.
  • Know your limitations in the water and don’t take risks.
  • Do not swim alone.
  • When boating, be sure there is a life jacket for each person on board and be sure the jackets can be accessed quickly and easily.
  • Swim sober.
  • Learn first aid and CPR.
  • Know who to call in an emergency, and be sure you know the address where you are, so you can tell responders.
  • Teach children water safety and swimming skills as early as possible.
  • Keep access points to pools or other bodies of water secure and locked when not in use.
  • Don’t use floatation devices as a substitute for supervision.
  • Designate a “water watcher” at all times when people are in the water.
  • Learn CPR, in case of emergencies.
  • Never assume you’ll hear when a child is in distress or drowning. Drowning is a silent death.

Published July 1, 2020

Top Parade of Homes Awards For ICI Homes

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It’s always exciting for a builder to be recognized in a community’s Parade of Homes competition, but this year ICI Homes outdid itself by winning two of the most prestigious awards in Tampa Bay.

In early March, a total of 79 homes were entered in the Parade of Homes from a variety of builders and developers, in the competition organized by the Tampa Bay Builders Association. And, once again, ICI Homes — a relatively new builder in the Tampa market — was chosen to receive two of its top honors.

The top award went to its Costa Mesa model in Asturia, a master-planned community in Odessa where ICI Homes has been building for the past three years. The Costa Mesa was honored with the Grand Award in the $600k-$649k price range — one of the most competitive categories in the Parade of Homes.

This 2,565-square-foot model home is absolutely stunning. A huge kitchen and extra-large island sets apart this spacious, one-story home that features four bedrooms, three baths and a three-car garage. One of its most unique features is a closet-size, walk-in pantry that is hidden behind beautiful kitchen cabinetry.

The builder’s second big win is for its Lantana model, which won a Silver Award in the $350k-$399k price range. This 1,800-square-foot home is one of six new floor plans that ICI Homes is introducing in Persimmon Park, a brand new community in Wesley Chapel within the master-planned development of Wiregrass Ranch.

The Lantana model at Persimmon Park in Wesley Chapel won a Silver Award at the recent Tampa Bay Parade of Homes.

Located off Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and directly behind The Shops at Wiregrass and AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, Wiregrass Ranch is a 5,000-acre, walkable community with trails that lead to parks, schools, entertainment, recreation and top-notch medical facilities.

“Persimmon Park gives our residents immediate access to all that Wiregrass Ranch and Wesley Chapel have to offer,” said Rosemary Messina, vice president of marketing and sales. “And, adding to the community’s appeal are amenities that families want, but without going overboard — a unique T-shaped pool and cabana, outdoor grilling, interconnecting trails, and dog parks for small and large breeds.”

The winning Lantana floor plan has a spacious kitchen/great room, with a large dining room and open flex room connecting to the kitchen. The master bedroom is at the rear of the home to give easy access to the garage, covered lanai and main living area. The one-story model is the craftsman elevation and, at 1,793 square feet, also offers two bedrooms and a bath at the front of the home.

All of ICI Homes in Persimmon Park have open floor plans with front porches, and garages and alleys at the back of the home. The first phase has 40 homes, with prices beginning in the high $200s.

Light and bright with lots of windows is how Messina describes the cottage-style floor plans at Persimmon Park. “Our plans feel open and airy, and exemplify Florida’s casual lifestyle,” she says. “These homes are designed for people wanting to simplify their life, who want less square footage to clean and maintain, yet want all the upscale finishes and details offered by ICI Homes.”

Inventory Homes In Asturia
In Asturia, ICI Homes has four inventory homes that are ready now or will be available soon. Two homes are of the award-winning Costa Mesa floor plan and one is a two-story Palisade. A one-story Arden will soon be completed.

“All of our floor plans are perfect for entertaining,” said Messina. “Our gathering rooms, gourmet kitchens and dining rooms blend together as one expansive space, highlighted by lots of windows that capture tons of natural light.”

ICI Homes has over 25 homesites remaining in Asturia, with many backing up to conservation and water. Prices begin in the high $300s. This 550-home community includes a unique trail system that winds through wetlands, parks and neighborhoods, and an award-winning Amenity Center that is known for its zero-entry pool, contemporary community center and state-of-the-art fitness center.

Bexley Showpiece
This is the last chance to buy an ICI Home in the first phase of Bexley, a master-planned community in Land O’ Lakes with thousands of acres of preserved wetlands, miles of recreational trails and a great location off State Road 54 and the Suncoast Parkway.

The builder’s Egret VII inventory home is one of the most beautiful and functional move-in ready homes available in Bexley. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath home has 2,813 square feet of living space, and features luxury finishes, an extended lanai, deluxe kitchen, huge gathering room and, at the home’s grand entrance, a large dining room and flex room. Separate from its side-entry two-car garage is a tandem garage ideal for a compact car, golf cart or storage.

This beautiful home sits on a 70-foot corner homesite in one of Bexley’s most prestigious neighborhoods, located close to the clubhouse and pools.

Published June 24, 2020