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Families Will Soon Begin Moving Into Persimmon Park In Wesley Chapel

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Afrika and Dawvel Brooks researched just about every homebuilder in Tampa Bay before deciding ICI Homes was the best one for their family.

“We wanted the ability to move walls and customize our new home, and ICI Homes was the only builder to welcome structural changes, and to do so at an affordable cost,” said Afrika.

The Brooks family discovered ICI Homes in the Asturia community in Odessa, and learned that the builder had just opened a new community in Wesley Chapel called Persimmon Park.

“While we loved ICI Homes’ floor plans in Odessa, Wesley Chapel was a better location for my family,” said Afrika. “It is the middle of so many things — shopping, restaurants and entertainment, and also close to hospitals and health care services. Especially for our two teenage daughters, building our new home in Wesley Chapel was a huge draw.”

The Brooks family is one of the first homebuyers in the new Persimmon Park community in Wesley Chapel. Shown here are Afrika and Dawvel Brooks, and their 14-year-old daughter, Amaya. (Courtesy of Mercedes Brooks)

The Brooks family is one of the first to buy in Persimmon Park, which is located off Bruce B. Downs within the master-planned development of Wiregrass Ranch. The community is directly behind The Shops at Wiregrass and AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, and across the street from a new $200 million hospital and health care complex being built by BayCare Health Systems.

“My husband and I both work in the health care field, so being so close to two hospitals is very attractive,” said Afrika, who recently retired from the U.S. Air Force. (Dawvel is still active duty and based at MacDill Air Force Base.)

The family choose the two-story Primrose floor plan, which, at over 2,400 square feet, is the largest home ICI Homes builds in Persimmon Park. All homes in the community have two-car garages in the rear, which are accessed by private alleyways and provide ample parking.

Afrika loves that the master suite in her new home is downstairs, as is a second bedroom and adjacent bath that is ideal for an office. Her girls’ bedrooms are upstairs with a shared bath, along with a large game room.

“Because ICI Homes can make structural changes very affordably, we decided to add a studio/bonus room above our garage to give our family the additional space we desired,” said Afrika. “I’ve been told that our bonus room idea has worked out so well, that other buyers are adding it to their homes.”

The Brooks’ home is in the drywall stage of construction, and the family expects to move into their new home in November.

“The entire homebuilding experience with ICI Homes has been excellent,” said Afrika. “From our salesperson, Carmen Worrels, to the architects who added our bonus room, to our project manager and customer service team. Everyone has been so helpful, nice and responsive.”

“In addition to Persimmon Park’s desirable location, buyers are excited that the community’s amenities will be completed in late November,” adds Greg Jones, Tampa Division Manager for ICI Homes.

Amenities include a unique, T-shaped luxury pool with cabanas and grilling area. Coming soon are dog parks for small and large breeds, and trails that wind through the community and connect to the Wiregrass Ranch trail system.

In Persimmon Park’s first phase, ICI Homes is building 40 homes; at build out, 97 homes. Prices begin in the high $200s, and buyers can choose from two, one-story and four, two-story homes, with more plans coming soon. There are four inventory homes available for families needing to move quickly.

“Our cottage-style floor plans feel open and airy with lots of windows, and exemplify Florida’s casual lifestyle,” says Jones. “Our 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.”

Jones adds that many builder upgrades are standard features for ICI Homes, including 6-foot windows, 8-foot doors and energy-efficient construction that boasts a 50-SEER rating. Persimmon Park offers low CDD fees at less than $2,000 a year, and its affordable HOA fee includes internet and cable television for just $90/month.

Families with school-age children are drawn to Persimmon Park because the community is zoned to the area’s highest-rated schools —Wiregrass Elementary, Dr. John Long Middle and Wiregrass Ranch High.

ICI Homes is currently offering an exceptionally low interest rate of just 2.75% on 30-year mortgages, when using the builder’s preferred lenders. A lower interest rate increases a buyer’s spending power and allows them to more quickly build equity in their home.

Persimmon Park is the first Wesley Chapel community for ICI Homes, which is celebrating 40 years of business. Based in Daytona Beach, the company is family owned and managed, and is proud of its very personalized, no-pressure approach to sales.

Published August 26, 2020

D.R. Horton To Build Up To 1,000 Homes In Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

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Westgate Village is the name of the newest village coming to Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, with up to 1,000 homes to be built by D.R. Horton, the country’s largest homebuilder.

In late July, Avalon Park Group/sitEX announced that it had closed on a 285-acre parcel adjacent to Avalon Park Wesley Chapel for its third phase, and that D.R. Horton will be the builder in  Westgate Village.

Camden kitchen

“Our foundation is a single, guiding principle: a value-first dedication to the individual needs of each and every one of our nation’s homebuyers,” says Donald R. Horton, founder and chairman of the homebuilder.

D.R. Horton plans to break ground on Westgate Village during the first quarter of 2021, with plans to build townhomes and single-family homes, which will be built in two series — Express Series and Preferred Series.

Homes in the Express Series will be built on 40-foot to 50-foot homesites, and range in size from 1,239 square feet to 2,601 square feet. Floor plans will offer three to five bedrooms, two to three baths and one- or two-car garages, depending on a family’s needs.

The Preferred Series will include higher-end features and finishes. Homes will be built on 50-foot homesites and range from 1,844 square feet to 3,561 square feet.  Floor plans will vary between three to five bedrooms, two to three-and-a-half baths and one- or two-car garages.

Coral master bedroom

Townhomes will include three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, and a one-car garage with a two-car driveway. Two floor plans will be available at 1,673 square feet and 1,758 square feet.

“I am looking forward to watching our dreams for this community continue to come to life with this newest addition,” says said Beat Kahli, president and CEO of Avalon Park Group/sitEX. “Working with D.R. Horton has been such a smooth process so far, and we cannot wait for the end result!”

The Westgate Village community will embrace its own set of amenities for its residents, including a resort-style pool, open-air clubhouse with an outdoor kitchen, playground, open sports field, and picnic area with pavilions.

All D.R. Horton homes will come equipped with a smart home automation system called Home is Connected, America’s Smart Home®. Both townhomes and single-family homes will be built with concrete block on the first and second floors — a superior construction process. D.R. Horton is the only production builder that utilizes concrete block on two floors in its homes.

Call C

Schools, Amenities and Downtown
Opening for the 2020-2021 school year is a new charter school at the community entrance, Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel, with 650 students in kindergarten through sixth grade. The school offers a core curriculum of English/language arts, mathematics, social science, science and electives, such as performing and fine arts, and world languages.

Few communities offer the recreational activities found at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, thoughtfully created for residents of all ages. New in 2019 was an expansive second amenity center with a zero-entry pool, splash pad, spa and picnic area. Avalon Park families also enjoy a wide array of other amenities, including another swimming pool, tot lot, basketball courts, pocket parks with mini-libraries, dog park, and trails and walkways that will interconnect with its planned downtown.

Coral

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel soon will offer residents places to shop and work when its downtown center is completed. Infrastructure construction has begun on the first phase, which will include two office buildings, two mixed-use retail/residential buildings and a community park.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is east Pasco County’s premier master-planned community to live, learn, work and play. The plan includes 4,800 residential homes and over a half-million square feet of commercial and civic uses, where residents will be in walking and bike-riding distance to schools, shops, restaurants, workplaces and recreational amenities.  Already, 1,500 people call Avalon Park Wesley Chapel home, and over 800 homes have been sold since it opened in 2012. The community will continue to grow over the next several years and, at build out, will be home to 10,000 residents.

For more information about these homes and the Avalon Park Wesley Chapel community, please visit AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com.

About D.R. Horton
As America’s Builder, D.R. Horton focuses on the satisfaction of the families that makes its houses into homes. Horton builds houses for every stage in life and provides personalized services tailored to each individual need. D.R. Horton proudly operates in 43 of homebuilding’s top 50 markets in the U.S., in which it ranks among the top five in 31 of these markets. For more on D.R. Horton, please visit DRHorton.com.

About Avalon Park Group

Avalon Park Group is a uniquely diversified family of companies engaged in businesses ranging from master-planned community development, to homebuilding, mining and property management, in Florida, Texas and Switzerland. With more than $1 billion in total assets, Avalon Park Group combines its exceptional reputation, sound business experience and significant financial resources to invest in extraordinary opportunities. At Avalon Park Group, our mission is to change the way the world lives, learns, works and plays through creating healthy sustainable communities and every aspect thereof. For more information on Avalon Park Group, visit AvalonParkGroup.com, or call (407) 658-6565.

Published August 26, 2020

Multifamily townhomes Glen and Vale

Art Workshops Welcome Beginning Artists

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If you’re looking for something inexpensive to do that is interesting, artistic and safe in these days of social distancing, sign up for workshops sponsored by the Pasco Fine Arts Council at the Avalon Park Amenity Center in Wesley Chapel.

These upcoming workshops are taught by local artists and welcome beginning artists. They are fun, informative and a great way to unwind and learn something new.

Land O’ Lakes artist Lionel Sanchez will teach ‘Drawing from Still Life’ at a Nov. 13 workshop at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Sanchez’s works include this Tarpon Springs painting, ‘Under Repair.’

Classes are limited to just eight students, and Zoom participation also is welcome. To keep class sizes small, students must sign up prior to the day of the workshop — there are no same-day registrations. Classes are free, although there may be a small charge for provided materials.

The Pasco Fine Arts Council Inc., has been the local arts agency for Pasco County since 1978. Over the past 30 years, its goal has been to encourage community involvement in the arts, provide art education to residents and students, and stimulate art and cultural organizations throughout Pasco County.

From this Council sprung the Pasco Fine Arts Center, where artwork by local and renowned artists are exhibited at its studio locations in New Port Richey and Wesley Chapel. Its programming includes a year-round schedule of art instructions in visual arts and fine crafts, organizing and promoting workshops and demonstrations, and developing art programs for children and students.

​The Pasco Fine Arts Council recently opened a new gallery in Wesley Chapel to build relationships with local artists and community groups, and to provide cultural opportunities, art education and art exhibitions for East Pasco residents.

This gallery is the result of a unique partnership that began in 2019 between the Pasco Fine Arts Council and the developer of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

“Our goal is to bring art and cultural events, exhibits and educational classes to East Pasco County,” explains Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of the Avalon Park Group. “In our first year, this partnership has led to the discovery of local artists, introduced art workshops to our community and given member artists the opportunity to feature their work in a new venue. We couldn’t be more pleased with this program!”

“It has been an overwhelming positive experience as well for the Pasco Fine Arts Council to expand its presence in East Pasco, thanks to the vision and generosity of the Avalon Park Group,” said Jo Baughman, director of the Council.

For the Avalon Park Group, one of the main goals of this partnership is to introduce people to local artists with monthly exhibits and demonstrations at its facilities.

“This partnership has allowed us to expand the arts not only to our residents, but also to the entire east side of the county,” said Lerret.

For Baughman, who has been involved in the Pasco Fine Arts Council for over 20 years, the invitation from Avalon Park West to work together accomplishes a long-held dream.

“This partnership has been a tremendous asset to the artist community and our patrons, and has greatly expanded our ability to bring arts to all of Pasco County,” said Baughman.

It is the vision of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel for its planned downtown to be the cultural and event center of East Pasco County. The downtown’s first phase will include a dedicated Arts Gallery that will become the permanent East Pasco home for the Pasco Fine Arts Council.

Upcoming Art Workshops

Textures and Mixed Media
With Patricia Garrow
Sept. 21, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Must sign up by Sept. 14

Fun With Wire Art
With Melinda Paproski
Oct. 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Must sign up by Sept. 26

Drawing From Still Life
With Lionel Sanchez
Nov. 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Must sign up by Nov. 6

Location
Avalon Park Amenity Center
5060 River Glen Blvd.
Wesley Chapel 33543

Published August 26, 2020

Who Installs Your Home Mechanical Systems Is Just As Important As The Manufacturer

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Homeowners often put more emphasis on which manufacturer they believe makes the best air conditioning unit, generator or hot water heater, instead of focusing on which company they hire to install and warranty the unit.

“Manufacturers essentially use the same components, which are put together on the same assembly lines,” explains Dana Spears, president and owner of Cornerstone Pros in Land O’ Lakes. “And, because there has been a lot of consolidation among manufacturers, many products are virtually identical, and differ only in the name they market under.”

Since there is little differentiation among brands, and because all manufacturers must meet the same industry standards and energy efficiency requirements, the most important factor for a homeowner to consider is what company they hire to specify and install their new home mechanical system.

“The technician’s knowledge and expertise, the service warranty provided, and the longevity and reputation of the installing company are critical to a unit’s success after it is installed in the home,” said Spears.

While an A/C unit, water heater and generator are technically home appliances, it’s important for people to understand that replacing these systems is not like replacing a refrigerator.

“With a refrigerator, all you need to do is plug the new one into the wall outlet. But, an A/C system, for example, must be ordered with specifications particular to your home, and then properly integrated into your home’s mechanical systems by certified technicians who know what they are doing.

“A homeowner can buy the most expensive product available, but it will not operate properly without the correct installation, or operate effectively for the number of years that it should,” said Spears.

Spears recommends choosing an established A/C, electrical and plumbing company that is locally owned, and has a reputation for great customer service and standing behind its work.

“You want to be sure the installing company will be in business to help you with service and warranty issues for years to come,” said Spears.

Transfer Switches and Generators
It is always best to be prepared by planning ahead before an emergency strikes. Spears explains there are two solutions to making sure your home has power in case of a storm or hurricane – a whole-home generator or a transfer switch to a portable generator.

“Built-in generators are the best way to maintain power to your entire home. However, because of the cost and the delay in permitting, many families are having us install transfer switches to power the refrigerator, lighting in key rooms and even a small bedroom A/C unit, which is often needed by someone with medical conditions,” said Spears.

A transfer switch eliminates extension cords winding through a house, and can be installed very quickly. With the exception of Pasco County, most areas of Tampa Bay are seeing delays of two to three months in securing permits for installing whole-house generators.

There is also a significant difference in cost. At Cornerstone Pros, a transfer switch typically costs between $1,200 and $2,500, while a whole-house generator begins at $9,000 (pricing depends on a home’s square footage).

For families wanting whole-home generators, Cornerstone installs Generac generators, the country’s largest manufacturer of backup generators that automatically activate when there is a power outage.

“Choosing the right size generator for your home is just as important as the quality of the generator and the installation. Our technicians do a full load calculation on every home we quote, and specify a generator that best meets a family’s needs and budget,” said Spears.

Cornerstone Pros offers low-interest financing available to make monthly payments affordable for generators, A/C systems and trutankless hot water heaters.

“We want to encourage everyone who wants to protect their family’s health, comfort and safety to plan ahead and to give us call to help identify what they can do to make the home safe and comfortable,” said Spears. “We do everything possible to make a home’s mechanical systems meet their budget with our payment plans.”

Cornerstone Pros answers its phones 24/7, and technicians are available weekends and holidays. Call (813) 990-0561 anytime, day or night.  For more information, visit the website at CornerstonePros.com.

Published August 26, 2020

Infinite HD — Experienced Home Remodeling

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Rob Howard got his start in the flooring business 35 years ago as a teenager, when he was working at a grocery store and his manager asked if he could finish the store’s floors when a contractor failed to show.

Rob agreed to help, discovered that he enjoyed the work, and has been in the flooring business ever since.

Over the years, Rob has expanded his skills to include painting, tile work and other skills needed for home improvements, and today works in both remodeling/restorations and new construction.

Experienced partners at Infinite HD, Jarred Howard (left), Rob Howard and David Rodriguez.

In 2014, Rob added new partners — his son, Jarred Howard, and longtime colleague David Rodriguez. The men named their new business Infinite Home Designs, which they abbreviated to Infinite HD.

Infinite HD has grown into a full-service home repair and installation company, with a focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling, as well as flooring.

A recent trend that Rob has observed is that many people are calling about back porch installations.

“It makes sense. Many people who are working from home want a relaxing spot to unwind. Plus, with Florida’s abundant mosquitoes and gnats, having a back porch makes your home’s outdoor experience much more enjoyable,” said Rob.

Home repair shows, such as “Fixer Upper,” often inspire people to do their own home repairs, but David Rodriguez stresses the importance of hiring a licensed professional for most home repair needs.

“We have a saying in the business — ‘Cheap labor isn’t skilled, and skilled labor isn’t cheap,’” said David. “It truly matters who you hire.”

Infinite HD has seen its share of cases where people try to do their own home repairs, or hire unqualified people, and end up having Infinite HD finish the job.

“Those clients end up spending more money, time and stress by trying to do it on their own,” said David.

Infinite HD recently moved its office to Odessa to keep up with the company’s growth. The location is convenient to its customer base in Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Rob is excited to watch his company continue to grow and expand.

Infinite HD continues to operate as a family business, which Rob is reminded of every time he steps into the office, because his grandchildren helped install its floor. Having both his son, Jarred, and daughter, Janann, work for him is something Rob deeply treasures – a sentiment his son, Jarred, shares.

“It’s always nice to make those memories with my dad,” said Jarred.

For more information, or to book a free estimate with Infinite HD, call (813) 309-5211.

Published August 26, 2020

Our Residents Loving Living At Club Wildwood

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Adults age 55-plus are discovering Club Wildwood in Hudson as an ideal community to call home because of its beautiful manufactured homes, first-class amenities (including an 85,000-gallon pool with relaxing waterfall), and an enviable location just minutes from the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.

At 478 homes, Club Wildwood is the largest retirement community in north Pasco County.  With so many residents, there is always something to enjoy, from water aerobics in its Olympic-size swimming pool, to twice-a-week bingo and weekly happy hours. Residents are friendly and welcome newcomers to all activities and clubs.

This exceptionally maintained park has re-sale homes priced from $20,000 to $85,000. New homes also are available for sale or lease, and begin in the low $90s. All homes are double-wide, and offer two or three bedrooms, two baths and an attached carport and storage area. Most existing homes have been updated with the latest design styles, and are a tremendous value for a single-family home in terms of cost, amenities and location.

Many of the community’s newest residents are moving from central and east Pasco, because living at Club Wildwood often costs less than renting an apartment, and its location on U.S. 19 makes it easy to get to work, shop and enjoy area attractions. The community’s monthly lot rental fee is less than $700, and includes city water, trash, sewer, landscaping and full use of all recreation facilities.

In addition to its exceptionally large pool and deck, Club Wildwood has a picnic area, shuffleboard courts, a bocce ball court and horseshoe pits. There’s even a dog run area for pets  and a large catch-and-release fishing lake for anglers.

The community’s spacious clubhouse includes a small library, pool tables, fitness room and card tables. Regular activities including bingo, karaoke, potluck dinners, coffee hours, dart tournaments, happy hours, pancake breakfasts, line dancing, and bridge games. During the social distancing requirements of COVID-19, some of these activities have been suspended, but all will be back when it is safe to gather together again.

Outside of the park, many Club Wildwood residents participate in special interest clubs, including bowling and golf leagues, the Red Hat Society and volunteering at nearby Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.

The 290-bed hospital, which is less than 10 minutes from Club Wildwood, is the only Level II Trauma Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center in Pasco County, and its renowned Heart Institute provides comprehensive cardiac care and an open heart surgery program.

Contact Community Manager Sean Terris for a private tour at (866) 799-6706 or .

Published August 26, 2020

Keep Your Family Cool and Safe

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Your family is likely spending more time than ever at home these days, and it may be smart to update you’re A/C system and install a home generator.

The outdoor unit of the Daikin Fit is half the size of a traditional condenser, which allows more space for outdoor living.

“The only thing worse than having you’re A/C go out on the hottest day of the year, is it going out during a hurricane, and not coming back on when your power is restored,” said Dana Spears, president and owner of Cornerstone Pros in Land O’ Lakes. “It is always best to plan ahead before an emergency strikes.”

Many families decide to upgrade their A/C system because their existing unit is unreliable, or costs too much to maintain, Spears explains.

A new A/C system that Cornerstone Pros offers exclusively in this area is the Daikin Fit series.  Available only since February, it features exceptionally cool comfort, a small footprint and high energy efficiency ratings.

“The Daikin Fit has many advantages that families value,” said Spears. “Here are the top three that our customers rave about.”

• Half The Size — The outdoor unit is half the size of a traditional condenser, which makes it perfect for pool and patio areas.

• Exceptionally Quiet — It is quiet great for sleeping because you don’t hear a compressor kicking on and off during the night.

• Energy Efficient — It has an energy efficiency rating of 16 SEER that lowers your power bill.

The Daikin Fit series also has the tech conveniences people want, including Wi-Fi connectivity and thermostat controls that are accessible from a phone, pad and laptop. Plus, Cornerstone offers great financing terms and rebates, and works with local utility companies to qualify customers for additional rebates. Finally, the Daikin Fit has one of the best warranties in the industry, with a 12-year parts and labor warranty included in the price of the unit.

Home Generators
Many families install a home generator to keep their family comfortable and safe in case the power goes out during a summer storm or hurricane.

“Families of all sizes and incomes are installing home generators, especially when a family member has medical issues that require treatments needing power,” said Miguel Silva, plumbing manager for Cornerstone Pros.

Cornerstone installs Generac generators, the country’s largest manufacturer of backup generators, which automatically activate when there is a power outage.

Generac generators run on natural gas or liquid propane, and automatically activate when there is a power outage.

“Choosing the right size generator for your home is just as important as the quality of the generator. Our technicians do a full load calculation on every home we quote, and specify a generator that best meets a family’s needs and budget,” said Silva.

Cornerstone Pros offers permanent and portable generators, and has low-interest financing available to make monthly payments affordable.

“We want to encourage everyone who wants to protect their family’s health, comfort and safety to give us call,” said Silva. “We do everything possible to make a generator fit their budget.”

Modern generators are compact, quiet and able to power some or all of a home’s electrical appliances. A generator prevents almost all of the problems associated with power loss, including spoiled food, extreme temperatures, sickening mold, and no running water if a home is on a well.

For homes with natural gas, Cornerstone Pros technicians do the plumbing that ties the generator directly into the home’s natural gas line, so the homeowner never has to worry about filling a gas tank. Homes without natural gas require a propane tank, which Cornerstone Pros connects to during its installation.

“Generators provide protection 24/7, whether you’re home or away, and turn themselves off when utility power returns, so there is no need to monitor the unit during an outage,” said Silva. “Plus, most models today offer Wi-Fi connectivity, so no matter where you are, you can monitor the status of your power and generator’s operations from a smartphone, tablet or computer.”

Cornerstone Pros offers 24-hour heating and cooling assistance. Its phones are answered 24/7, and technicians are available weekends and holidays. Call (813) 990-0561 anytime, day or night.  For more information, visit the website at CornerstonePros.com.

Published July 29, 2020

Abstract Artist Cindi Vinci Exhibits at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

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If you’re looking for something free to do that is interesting, artistic and safe in these days of social distancing, stop by and see the latest artist show at the Welcome Center at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

‘Brain Games’

Artist Cindi Sherman Vinci is exhibiting over 20 paintings of her colorful, graphically intriguing paintings at the show sponsored by the Pasco Fine Arts Council and hosted by the developer of this master-planned community on State Road 54, located about three miles east of I-75.

Vinci paintings ask the question, “Do artists create reality as they see it, or does reality show the artist what to create?”

“As far back as I can remember, I have always interpreted the world in an abstract manner — I knew nothing I saw and heard was all there was to the story,” Vinci writes on her website. “For me, the world is a jumble of thoughts and ideas that run amok.”

She goes on to explain that her art reflects her idea of life and all of its jumbled aspects.

“My work reflects what I feel about life and all the changes that have occurred in my life. All my pieces tell my story,” she writes.

Vinci has been fascinated with abstract art since she was 6 years old. Born in 1953 in a stereotypical Italian family, her father also was an artist and taught her as a child. Vinci later studied interior and architectural design at Parsons School of Design in New York City, and also studied studio art and art history at State University of New York in Purchase, New York.

Vinci’s show, which runs through Aug.22, is the result of a partnership that Avalon Park Wesley Chapel began with the Pasco Fine Arts Council over a year ago.

‘Railroad’

“Our goal was to bring art and cultural events, exhibits and educational classes to East Pasco County,” explains Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of the Avalon Park Group. “In our first year, this partnership has led to the discovery of local artists, introduced art workshops to the community and given member artists the opportunity to feature their work in a new venue. We couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome!”

“One of the main goals of this partnership was to introduce people to local artists with monthly exhibits and demonstrations,” said Lerret. “This partnership has allowed us to expand the arts not only to our residents, but also to the entire east side of the county.”

“It has been an overwhelming positive experience as well for the Pasco Fine Arts Council to expand its presence in East Pasco, thanks to the vision and generosity of the Avalon Park Group,” said Jo Baughman, director of the Council.

For Baughman, who has been involved in the Pasco Fine Arts Council for over 20 years, the invitation from Avalon Park West to work together accomplishes a long-held dream.

“This partnership has been a tremendous asset to the artist community and our patrons, and has greatly expanded our ability to bring arts to all of Pasco County,” said Baughman.

It is the vision of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel for its planned downtown to be the cultural and event center of East Pasco County. The downtown’s first phase will include a dedicated Arts Gallery that will become the permanent East Pasco home for the Pasco Fine Arts Council.

Artist Cindi Vinci
Gallery Show
Through Aug. 22
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday – Saturday

Reception
“Something Different”
Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Free – Refreshments Served

East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery
Avalon Park Information Center
33613 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

Free Fall Workshops
Explore your artistic side at these upcoming seminars hosted by the Pasco Fine Arts Council. Classes are limited to just eight students, and Zoom participation also is welcome.

Beginning Drawing
With Shawn Dell Joyce
Great for beginners and teens
Aug. 25, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Must sign up by Aug. 17
Avalon Park Amenity Center

Getting Started Powerfully
with Polymer Clay
With Ann Larsen
Great for beginners and teens
Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Must sign up by Sept. 3
Land O’ Lakes location provided at registration

Textures and Mixed Media
With Patricia Garrow
Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Must sign up by Sept. 14
Avalon Park Amenity Center

Published July 29, 2020

Avex Homes Introduces New Model Home At Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

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A beautiful new model home by Avex Homes is welcoming buyers at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, one of the most in-demand, master-planned developments in this high profile central Pasco community.

The new Clayton model, which has been open for less than a month, is one of the builder’s most popular plans because its spacious floor plan is perfect for families of all kinds.

“This is my favorite floor plan because they were brilliant in how they did the layout — it’s very open, but at the same time, everything is very nicely tucked away, which makes it feel much larger than its 2,000 square feet,” said Carlie Meadows, a sales associate for Avex Homes.

The Clayton is Avex Homes’ new model home in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. This three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath home begins at $270,000, and is a tremendous value for a new home in Wesley Chapel.

Meadows explains that every home built by Avex Home comes standard with granite countertops, 42-inch kitchen cabinets and ceiling heights of 9 feet, 4 inches on both the first and second floors.

The home opens into its dining room, which shows off the open floor plan that flows into the great room and kitchen. The master bedroom suite is on the first floor — a very popular feature that is attractive to families with children, and empty-nesters. A huge walk-in closet is located through the master bath.

“I love having the walk-in closet in the back of the bathroom, because when you’re getting ready in the morning, you don’t want to wake up your spouse,” said Meadows.

The two additional bedrooms upstairs are quite large, at 14.4 feet by 11.2 feet, and each has a large walk-in closet. A full bath is located between the two bedrooms.

The new sales center also is close to new townhomes being sold by Avex Homes. Several townhomes have already been sold, and five inventory townhomes are available, including the Bellevue model home.

The maintenance-free townhomes all feature two-car garages in the rear, with alley access. Three floor plans are available, ranging from 1,608 square feet to 1,834 square feet, with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. Each townhome has a front porch, covered lanai or private breezeway that connects to the garage.

The townhome lifestyle is especially popular with young families buying their first home, and empty-nesters wanting to downsize. Townhomes begin in the low $230s.

“Our townhomes are beautifully designed with upscale custom finishes, and are a tremendous value for the Wesley Chapel area,” said Cheryl Gonzalez, sales representative for Avex Homes.

For families wanting to select their single-family floor plan, finishes and colors, Avex offers eight plans in its traditional single-family home options, ranging from 1,585 square feet to 2,856 square feet, built as one- or two-story homes. Each home features a classic design with rich architectural detail and a traditional focus on the front porch. Homes start in the mid-$200s and are available on a variety of lots, including conservation and water views.

If building from scratch, Avex allows its homebuyers to upgrade home finishes to their individual lifestyle and design preferences — from moving electrical outlets, to upgrading cabinets and flooring, to choosing colors that best show off their individual taste.

Amenities and Downtown
Few communities offer the recreational activities found at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, thoughtfully created for residents of all ages. New in 2019 was an expansive second amenity center with a zero-entry pool, splash pad, spa and picnic area. Avalon Park families also enjoy a wide array of other amenities, including another swimming pool, tot lot, basketball courts, pocket parks with mini-libraries, dog park, and trails and walkways that will interconnect with its planned downtown.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel soon will offer residents places to shop and work when its downtown center is completed. Infrastructure construction has begun on the first phase, which will include two office buildings, two mixed-use retail/residential buildings and a community park.

“We will be building beautiful, multi-story buildings with commercial space designed for businesses our residents want close to home — restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, bars and entertainment, hair and nail salons, as well as activities like dance, gymnastic and karate studios,” said Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of the Avalon Park Group.

In addition to shops and markets, the community’s downtown area will have over 500,000 square feet of commercial space.

“We are not just developers— we are building a brand new town with family events all year-long,” said Lerret. “We’re bringing together everything a family needs to enjoy life today, and in the future.”

Already, 1,500 people call Avalon Park Wesley Chapel home, and over 750 homes have been sold since it opened in 2012. The community will continue to grow over the next several years and, at build out, will be home to 10,000 residents residing in 4,400 single and multifamily homes.

Published July 29, 2020

Our Residents Loving Living At Club Wildwood

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Adults age 55-plus are discovering Club Wildwood in Hudson as an ideal community to call home because of its beautiful manufactured homes, first-class amenities (including an 85,000-gallon pool with relaxing waterfall), and an enviable location just minutes from the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.

At 478 homes, Club Wildwood is the largest retirement community in north Pasco County.  With so many residents, there is always something to enjoy, from water aerobics in its Olympic-size swimming pool, to twice-a-week bingo and weekly happy hours. Residents are friendly and welcome newcomers to all activities and clubs.

This exceptionally maintained park has re-sale homes priced from $20,000 to $85,000. New homes also are available for sale or lease, and begin in the low $90s. All homes are double-wide, and offer two or three bedrooms, two baths and an attached carport and storage area. Most existing homes have been updated with the latest design styles, and are a tremendous value for a single-family home in terms of cost, amenities and location.

Many of the community’s newest residents are moving from central and east Pasco, because living at Club Wildwood often costs less than renting an apartment, and its location on U.S. 19 makes it easy to get to work, shop and enjoy area attractions. The community’s monthly lot rental fee is less than $700, and includes city water, trash, sewer, landscaping and full use of all recreation facilities.

In addition to its exceptionally large pool and deck, Club Wildwood has a picnic area, shuffleboard courts, a bocce ball court and horseshoe pits. There’s even a dog run area for pets  and a large catch-and-release fishing lake for anglers.

The community’s spacious clubhouse includes a small library, pool tables, fitness room and card tables. Regular activities including bingo, karaoke, potluck dinners, coffee hours, dart tournaments, happy hours, pancake breakfasts, line dancing, and bridge games. During the social distancing requirements of COVID-19, some of these activities have been suspended, but all will be back when it is safe to gather together again.

Outside of the park, many Club Wildwood residents participate in special interest clubs, including bowling and golf leagues, the Red Hat Society and volunteering at nearby Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.

The 290-bed hospital, which is less than 10 minutes from Club Wildwood, is the only Level II Trauma Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center in Pasco County, and its renowned Heart Institute provides comprehensive cardiac care and an open heart surgery program.

Contact Community Manager Sean Terris for a private tour at (866) 799-6706 or .

Published July 29, 2020