The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

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Avalon Applauds

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Since its founding, American Legion Post 108 of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel has been a vital part of the community — for veterans, of course, and also for the families of veterans, students and community members of all stripes who have benefited from services the Post provides. This is why Avalon Park Wesley Chapel would like to applaud the excellent work American Legion Post 108 is doing in support of our community.

Post 108 was founded in 1937 and covers northern Hillsborough County, an area of 270 square miles. It has 250 members — known as Legionnaires — all of whom are veterans coming from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. 

We spoke with Commander Randy Holeyfield who explained that Post 108 is the local outpost for the national American Legion. Formed in 1919, the American Legion is our country’s premiere veterans organization. It routinely advocate for veterans and their families, and lobbying efforts have been instrumental in the establishment of key resources and benefits for them, including the G.I. Bill and the Veterans Administration.

The local post supports a number of the Legion’s national programs, including JROTC in schools and the Stanley Johnson Nursing/Health Science Scholarship and the Boys State Scholarship. 

Post 108 also is engaged in a number of local service projects. This year, the post has been working to revitalize Lutz Cemetery, which had become run down. 

“It’s just something we wanted to do. When we told the cemetery association — literally, the treasurer almost cried,” Holeyfield shared. “They didn’t have the money to do anything, and for us to come in there to do this project — they’ve been praying for someone to help them.”

The Post has a number of events on the horizon open to the public. On Sept. 2, starting at 10 a.m., it will host a Post 108 Picnic at East Lake Park. Its second annual Golf Tournament, to be held at Plantation Palms Golf Club, will be Oct. 27 starting at 8 a.m. Closing out the year will be a Christmas Party on Dec. 9 at 6 p.m., at Lake Pagett Estates Clubhouse, where all veterans from the community are invited. And early next year, there will be another picnic celebrating the American Legion birthday — mark your calendars for March 16, 2024 at 11 a.m., at East Lake Park.

Holeyfield tells us that being a “homeless post” is hard — they have no permanent building to call home and host events. But Post 108 hasn’t let that get in the way of its commitment to supporting veterans and service to the community. 

To learn more about American Legion Post 108, visit AmericanLegionPost108.org.

Published June 14, 2023

Discover The Mattamy Homes Difference at Area Communities

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With every new home community, Mattamy Homes demonstrates their dedication to providing thoughtful details and meaningful value for their customers. Mattamy focuses on the intrinsic value of a given area such as the Tampa Bay 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.

So, who is Mattamy Homes? 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, Mattamy has a commitment to excellence that has been evident since the beginning, along with numerous Customer Satisfaction and industry award wins. Visit a Mattamy Homes community and you’ll experience the Mattamy difference with beautiful streetscapes and exterior styles. Attention to detail is apparent inside and outside of each home, with open and airy layouts that include charming, versatile living spaces.

Timberdale Largo dining room

3 New Neighborhoods at Chapel Crossings in Wesley Chapel
Mattamy has just opened two new-home neighborhoods in the popular Wesley Chapel master-planned community, Chapel Crossings, located off S.R. 54 and Curley Road. A third neighborhood, Twin Creeks, is slated to begin sales in late June for spacious townhomes, which complement the paired villas and single-family homes that are currently available.

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. 

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.

Three new models are open daily for touring – two new decorated paired villas and one single-family home model. An array of quick move-in homes is available in both neighborhoods for move-in this spring and summer.

Asbury Pelican exterior

Twin Creeks at Chapel Crossings is slated to open 4 new models and begin sales in late June. This community will offer stylish townhomes, with 1,667 sq. ft. to 2,574 sq. ft. and 3 to 4 bedrooms, 2.5 to 3 baths, and 1- to 2-car garages. These award-winning two-level townhomes are open, airy and spacious – and models of these townhomes are currently open at Mattamy’s nearby Parkview at Long Lake Ranch and Volanti communities. Four decorated townhome models at Twin Creeks will open in late June, when sales begin, and quick move-in townhomes will be available. Interested parties should join the VIP list by visiting mattamyhomes.com/Tampa.

“We are thrilled to be part of this exciting new master-planned community — and offering three new home types in order to fill the needs and wants of today’s homebuyer,” says Kathleen Dec, director of marketing for Mattamy Homes’ Tampa and Southwest Florida division. “Our Mattamy homes and neighborhoods at Chapel Crossings are designed to provide a true sense of community, a fun-filled lifestyle, and promote well-being to make everyday living a joy.”

All three Mattamy neighborhoods will have Florida Green Building Certification and offer energy-efficient, sustainable 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 top Pasco County destinations such as The Shops at Wiregrass and The Tampa Premium Outlets, Chapel Crossings offers the best of Tampa and West Central Florida living.

Mattamy residents will have access to the Chapel Crossings master-planned amenities that are opening later this year. These fun-filled amenities include a distinctive clubhouse with a fitness center, dog park (the perfect place to make your pet’s day), resort-style pool, lazy river and more. 

Volanti

“Chapel Crossings’ new amenities are designed for all ages, with a relaxing, down-home feel and modern features,” Dec continued. “This will be a great place to connect with friends, family and neighbors — and give our homeowners access to well-being, sun, shade and happiness all year round.”

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. This gated entry community is near premier shopping and dining destinations include Tampa Premium Outlets, the Grove and The Shops at Wiregrass. Quick move-in townhomes are available with beautiful designer finishes.

Volanti was recently awarded the prestigious 2022 Community of The Year award by the Tampa Bay Builders Association, as well as the 2023 Grand Award for the Sebring model in the 2023 Parade of Homes.

Four home designs — the Marianna, Ormond, Sebring and Venice — are currently available for quick move-in, and offer 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. Four model homes are open for tours daily.

Parkview amenities

Parkview at Long Lake Ranch in Lutz
Perfectly situated just off 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. 

There is currently a great selection of quick move-in homes available, as well as nine stylish floor plans to choose from. There is truly something for everyone.

6 designer-decorated model homes are now open daily.

Citron Grove in Odessa
Only 4 townhomes remain in this Odessa enclave of only 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. These final opportunities are being sold by appointment only.

Great savings and reduced pricing are available for a limited time
Special savings and reduced pricing are available for a limited time, and make it easier than ever to own a new Mattamy home.  Homebuyers have their choice of an array of quick move-in homes that are available and attainable now in top locations throughout the area, so there is no need to wait. Mattamy invites you to contact a New Home Counselor to learn more about these special savings and 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 email , or call 813-252-2715.

Published May 31, 2023

Our Favorite Tampa Bay Summer Camps for 2023

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Calling out all parents!

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about how your kids will be spending their time during the break. Luckily, Tampa Bay is home to some of the best summer camps around, offering everything from sports and outdoor adventures to academic activities. To help you make the most of your child’s summer, we’ve compiled a list of the top 4 local summer camps to check out for 2023.

Camping at the Creek

Cypress Creek Middle School is offering its annual “Camping at the Creek” basketball camps for students entering 5th grade through 10th grade. Students will receive instruction on ball handling, shooting, and basketball fundamentals. They’ll also have the opportunity to compete against other campers in games and scrimmages. This is a great opportunity for students, who are interested in pursuing basketball in middle or high school, to gain some valuable exposure and experience.

Camp dates are Monday June 5 – Thursday June 8 and Monday June 12 – Thursday June 15. Camp times are 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. The camp cost is $100 each week. Checks can be made out to CCMS (Cypress Creek Middle School) and delivered to the school office prior to the beginning of camp.  Current CCMS students may pay using Rycor. Completed registration forms must be submitted prior to attending. Send all forms and requests for further information to: .  Cypress Creek Middle School is located at 8845 Old Pasco Rd, Wesley Chapel.

Snacks/lunch will be available for purchase.

Click here to access camp registration form

8845 Old Pasco Road
Wesley Chapel, FL  33544
(813) 346-4600
https://ccms.pasco.k12.fl.us/

 

The After School Scholar

For those who are looking to keep their children engaged during the summer, The After School Scholar Summer Camp is a great choice. Participants will receive individualized instruction to master academic concepts, enjoy daily outdoor activities, and take weekly educational field trips in a fun atmosphere.

There will be a new summer camp theme every week as part of the S.T.E.A.M. curriculum and outdoor play time every day to help young minds grow while having fun, all summer long!

Week long camps are available in age groups 5-8 years and 9-13 years.

The camp will run from May 29th until August 6th, from 10AM until 4PM.

Read more on The After School Scholar Summer Camp webpage and sign up by calling (813) 690-2071 or email .

2418 Raden Drive
Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639
(813) 690-2071
https://theafterschoolscholar.com/

 

Summer Camp at the Tampa Y

At the Tampa YMCA Summer Camp, kids aged 6 to 15 years old can explore a wide variety of activities each day in a safe, fun environment that provides the opportunity to build lifelong friendships and make memories to last long after summer ends.

Activities include swimming, science, arts/crafts, nature education, games, team building and more!

Tampa YMCA Summer Camp offers campers the opportunity to try something new while they build character through activities based on the Y Core Values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. It’s also important to mention that Tampa YMCA Summer Camps are ACA-Accredited and have high standards for program quality, safety and operations.

Summer Camp programs run 9AM to 4PM, Mondays-Fridays, from May 30th until August 4th in 12 locations around Tampa.

Details on location, pricing and registration can be found on the Tampa YMCA website.

110 E. Oak Ave
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 224-9622
https://www.tampaymca.org/

 

Summer at Mathnasium

The expression “use it or lose it” applies to math knowledge, too. On average, students lose 2.6 months of what they’ve learned in math class over summer break. Summer at Mathnasium is the answer to help your kids retain, expand, and apply their STEM knowledge all summer long!  The program activities revolve around legos, algebra, geometry and robotics.

Mathnasium can help kids of all ages to retain their math knowledge, gain an advantage for the coming school year and apply math in fun and engaging ways

Contact the center at (813) 590-0641 for more details and start by scheduling a free assessment.

28652 FL-54
Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
(813) 590-0641
https://www.mathnasium.com/summer-math-programs

 

6 Reasons to Consider Remodeling your Bathroom with CMK Construction

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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:

  1. 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.”
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

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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.

CMK Construction: Expertise Guaranteed

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When creativity strikes, it’s only natural to want to get the job done ourselves, and quickly, too.

However, some projects are better left to the professionals, and performing major bathroom renovations is not the time to experiment with our creative side.

This is why, one of the best ways homeowners can save time, money and any potential headaches, is to hire a professional bathroom remodeler for all renovation projects. CMK Construction holds those answers, and has the years of expertise and satisfied customers to back it up.

“We have a team that truly cares a lot,” says owner Manny Kavouklis. “Sometimes, as with any business, that’s hard to find, but at our company, our employees always go the extra mile.”

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.

“We only sell the best quality finishes and then combine them with flawless installation; it truly gives you that ‘WOW’ factor.” Kavouklis said. “We also use premium products such as Schluter products, which allow for lifetime warranties. You know you’re working with a professional when warranties are involved. It allows us to give our customers that extra peace of mind when knowing potential issues or defects will be taken care of in a timely manner.”

While it may seem counterintuitive, hiring a professional bathroom remodeler can be more cost-effective than doing it yourself. Professional remodelers have access to wholesale pricing on materials and fixtures, and can often get better deals through their connections — not to mention the time saved on the homeowner’s end by avoiding the exhausting labor involved.

Each project begins with an in-home visit, before clients then visit the showroom to walk through plans with an accredited designer.

The company offers many selections of new bathroom and kitchen fixtures, kitchen countertops and cabinets, backsplashes, 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.

Skipping the “do-it-yourself” way also ensures that you get a high-quality result that meets every need, and exceeds all expectations. With the help of CMK Construction, homeowners can expect a high-quality result that is durable and long-lasting.

“A professional bathroom remodeler will have the necessary skills and tools to complete your project to the highest standards of workmanship,” says Kavouklis.

As the company says, “Your Tampa home is more than your refuge from the world – it’s also one of your most important investments.”

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

Avalon applauds PFAC

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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 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

Avalon Applauds Tighten The Drag Foundation

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Congratulations to Tighten The Drag Foundation for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. This Lutz-based nonprofit foundation helps to improve the quality of life for those that have suffered a spinal cord injury.

Tighten The Drag Foundation provides therapeutic sponsored outdoor activities and outings, links to valuable resources, the latest news on rehabilitation, research and recovery, and continuous support for families of the spinal cord injured. The nonprofit also raises money that helps to pay for activity-based exercise therapy rehabilitative and recovery programs, which is not covered by any insurance.

“Insurance companies don’t cover therapy because, most likely, someone with a spinal cord injury won’t walk again. While this therapy is necessary and worthwhile, it’s deemed this way by insurance companies because you just don’t know what kind of recovery each person will have,” the foundation’s lead volunteer, Sheila Tramontana, said.

Sheila’s own son, Robert Tramontana, was paralyzed 10 years ago, suffering a spinal cord injury while out on Crystal River. As Robert spent 87 days in the hospital, Sheila soon found out insurance would not cover the rehab therapy. It would have to be paid out-of-pocket and those sessions can run up to or more than $100 an hour, and, most likely, the therapy’s location is not nearby. Meaning, transportation also factors into this uncovered cost.

“It blew my mind just how little resources there were for helping this kind of injury. There weren’t places to go, nor is there an advocate for someone in a hospital who is looking for help for paralysis,” Sheila recalls.

According to the nonprofit’s website, “There are approximately 17,500 new spinal cord injuries in the U.S. every year. There are over a half-million people living with spinal cord injuries (SCI in the United States. Every 38 minutes in our country, a person becomes paralyzed.”

Some of the nonprofit’s upcoming fundraising events include its annual fishing tournament and walking program, both of which are in September.

In the meantime, for more information on the nonprofit, go to TightenTheDragFoundation.org.

Published January 11, 2023

Where To Find Great Gift Deals This Holiday Season

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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

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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.