The Laker/Lutz News

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Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Seven Springs Middle School

School projects address district needs

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A global pandemic has cast uncertainty regarding what will happen in the coming school year, but the work goes on to build, expand and renovate schools in the Pasco County school district.

Rapid growth in recent years has caused school crowding. And, anticipated residential construction has created a need for schools in previously undeveloped areas.

Cypress Creek Middle School in Wesley Chapel will have its inaugural first day of school when the 2020-2021 school year begins. (B.C. Manion)

Across the district, enrollment is expected to increase by slightly more than 1,900 students for this coming school year, and that includes charter schools, according to Chris Williams, director of planning for the school district.

It remains unclear if that projection will come to fruition, in light of impacts from COVID-19 on residential construction.

The district’s enrollment will grow — but, it’s not clear how much, Williams said during a school board workshop on the district’s capital improvement plan.

Numerous projects are planned in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, according to Williams’ presentation.

The planning director also provided an overview of schools expected to face another crowded year in 2020-2021.

Construction is underway at the Starkey Ranch K-8 School, near the intersection of Long Spur and Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa. The project, which includes private and public partners, will feature a school, a library and a cultural center, next to a district park. The public will be able to take advantage of the library, cultural center and park. (B.C. Manion)

Williams said he expects Odessa Elementary to be “just slammed full,” for the upcoming school year. “I don’t know (if) we could put any more students there,” he said.

“Fortunately, the relief for Odessa Elementary is the Starkey K-8, which will open, of course, next year. So, Odessa, we’re just working with them to get them through this coming year.

“Oakstead Elementary continues to be a little bit over capacity.

“I don’t know how much opening Starkey K-8, as mostly a magnet, will impact Oakstead (Elementary), but certainly it could have some impact on Oakstead Elementary, as well.

“Connerton (Elementary) continues to be over capacity,” he said.

But, he said, Connerton is experiencing “slow growth,” so the district will monitor the situation.

Wesley Chapel Elementary is expected to be slightly over capacity, but two new charter schools opening this year in Wesley Chapel — Pinecrest and Innovation Preparatory (inPrep) — are expected to have an impact, Williams said.

An additional classroom wing has been added to Bexley Elementary in Land O’ Lakes, to increase its capacity to meet growing enrollment needs. (File)

At the middle school level, the construction of Starkey Ranch K-8 will provide relief to River Ridge and Seven Springs middle schools, and also will likely have some impact on Rushe Middle School, too, Williams said.

A magnet 6-12 school will be opening in 2023, in the upcoming Angeline development in Land O’ Lakes, Williams said. He expects that to have an impact on Pine View and Rushe middle schools, and perhaps on River Ridge Middle, too.

“By then, Ridge Road will be complete,” the planning expert said, creating access to the new 6-12 school from all of those areas.

“Finally, after many years, we finally provide some relief to John Long Middle, with the opening of Cypress Creek Middle,” Williams added.

“Weightman Middle certainly is in a growth area,” he said, but charter schools in the area are expected to have an impact.

Williams added: “Also, we are planning in 2024 to open a magnet school, K-8, over in Wesley Chapel that also will provide relief to some of those schools.”

Sunlake High School in Land O’ Lakes also has a new classroom wing this year, to accommodate enrollment growth. (File)

At the high school level, Williams said additional capacity was added to Land O’ Lakes High School during its renovation. A new classroom wing added to Sunlake High School will be ready for occupancy this year.

A new wing added to Bexley Elementary also is ready for the 2020-2021 school year.

The future 6-12 school in Angeline also will increase enrollment capacity in the Land O’ Lakes area, Williams said.

The opening of Cypress Creek Middle School this fall, will have a ripple effect on enrollments.

First, it allows Cypress Creek High School to house additional students in grades nine through 12, while Cypress Creek Middle School serves students in grades six through eight.

The additional capacity at the high school allows the school district to relieve crowding at Wiregrass Ranch High. The new middle school allows the district to relieve crowding at John Long Middle.

Wiregrass Ranch won’t feel the full impact for a couple years, Williams said, because the district grandfathered this year’s juniors and seniors at Wiregrass Ranch.

Construction continues on a remodeling project at Zephyrhills High School. (B.C. Manion)

And, of course, the planning director said, the Wiregrass area is still experiencing growth.

He also noted that Pasco High is over capacity. The area, however, isn’t experiencing much growth.

The district is evaluating projects that could add capacity at Pasco High in the future, he said.

Zephyrhills High’s capacity is being increased through a project now in progress at the school, he added.

When The Innovation Academy at Kirkland Ranch opens, expected in 2023, it likely will have a significant impact on enrollments in schools on the district’s east side, he said.

Besides work that has been wrapped up recently, is underway, or on the drawing board — the district also has been securing sites for future schools.

Previously, the district has found itself in the position of being unable to find affordable land for schools, Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd told school board members.

It has resolved that issue, he said.

“As a district, we are in tremendous shape when it comes to land to build schools,” Gadd said.

Published August 05, 2020

The New Year Is A Great Time To Begin Planning For Your Next Home

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The new year is an ideal time to start planning your next home, and Asturia invites you to visit its beautifully furnished models in Odessa.

Built by some of America’s top builders, models are open for tour daily at this master-planned community, located off State Road 54, just west of the Suncoast Parkway.

David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Park Square Homes and Ryan Homes are Asturia’s exclusive builders. Model homes are located in the community’s third and final phase, with on-site agents to assist homebuyers.

The community’s newest model is the Margate II by Park Square Homes. It features three bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage at the rear of the home. This 1,966-square-foot home has an inviting foyer with spacious flex room, an island kitchen with an abundance of cabinets, and large den off the foyer. The Margate II starts at $319,990, and a model of this floor plan has just opened.

Asturia is Park Square Homes first entry into Pasco County. It brings over 35 years of experience building quality homes in Central Florida and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007 with communities in south Hillsborough County.

David Weekley Homes has been building in Asturia since the community first opened in 2016. Its newest model is the two-story Mendocino. At 2,845 square feet, this spacious home features four bedrooms, an open study, three full baths, one half-bath and a two-car garage. Designer touches include an extended lanai, oversized kitchen island, an owner’s retreat with tray ceiling and wood beam accents, a spa-like bath and oversized walk-in closet.

Priced from the $340s, the Mendocino is included in the David Weekley Homes Lake Series, with homes that range in size from 2,200 square feet to 3,200 square feet built on 55-foot homesites.

ICI Homes has been building in Asturia since 2017, and recently opened its new Costa Mesa model near the community’s entrance on a peaceful waterfront homesite with long conservation views. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath, three-car garage plan is 2,565 square feet, and showcases a huge kitchen with extra-large island and closet-size, walk-in pantry that is cleverly hidden behind cabinetry.

ICI Homes also has a second model on a wooded conservation lot, the Serena, that is now for sale and can include the model’s professionally decorated, high-end furnishings for families wanting a turn-key home ready now.

Asturia’s only townhomes are being built by Ryan Homes. Its three-bedroom townhomes range from 1,580 square feet to 1,770 square feet, and have two-car, rear-entry, detached garages. Townhomes feature private outdoor courtyards with paver patios and privacy fencing. Prices begin in the $220s. Ryan Homes has sold more than half of their homes and has fewer than 100 homes to go. They have no inventory of homes, which allows the builder to customize new construction townhomes for its buyers.

“The beautiful Asturia community has so much to offer with its first-class amenities, and our homes are at a perfect price that our sales have been brisk,” said Mona Cruz, one of the Ryan Homes sales team.

About Asturia
Asturia offers residents a kid-friendly, family oriented lifestyle surrounded by miles of multi-use trails, interspersed with dog parks and pocket parks. The community’s distinctive, 5,800-square-foot Amenity Center and Clubhouse includes a fully equipped fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a luxurious resort-style swimming pool and expansive lawn areas for recreation.

Currently in its third phase, when Asturia’s development is complete, it will likely have less than 550 single-family homes.

“What makes Asturia stand out from other new home developments is our smaller size,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines, the developer behind Asturia. “Other communities in the area are looking at 3,000 to over 5,000 homes, and many years of construction. Our families prefer the intimate neighborhood experience that comes with Asturia’s modest community size.”

Outstanding schools are another reason why families choose Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School.

A low-cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Asturia’s central location is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, and also provides close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. Its master plan incorporates retail, office, multifamily and a variety of single-family residential offerings.

More information can be obtained by visiting Asturia’s model homes, registering at the community’s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 510-3601.

Published January 29, 2020

New Model Homes Open For Tour At Asturia

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Unique Floor Plans Offered By Four Premier Builders

The holiday season is a wonderful time to dream about your next home, and Asturia invites you to visit its model homes by some of America’s top builders, in Odessa.

The community’s beautifully furnished model homes are open for tour daily at this master-planned community, located off of State Road 54, just west of the Suncoast Parkway.

David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Park Square Homes and Ryan Homes are Asturia’s exclusive builders. Model homes are open daily in the community’s third and final phase, with on-site agents to assist homebuyers.

The Costa Mesa by ICI Homes is Asturia’s newest model home, located on a fabulous conservation homesite.

The community’s newest model is the Mendocino by David Weekley Homes. The beautifully furnished Mendocino is 2,845 square feet, and features four bedrooms, an open study, three full baths, one half-bath and a two-car garage. Designer touches include an extended lanai, oversized kitchen island, an owner’s retreat with tray ceiling and wood beam accents, a spa-like bath and oversized walk-in closet.

Priced from the $340s, the Mendocino is included in David Weekley Homes’ Asturia’s Lake Series, with homes that range in size from 2,200 square feet to 3,200 square feet that are built on 55-foot homesites.

To celebrate the holidays, David Weekley Homes is hosting a Sips with Santa special event on Sunday, Dec. 15 at it model home center. Celebrate the Christmas season with hot chocolate, coffee and s’mores, with Santa hearing Christmas wishes from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Other single-family home models in Asturia are available for tour by ICI Homes, and Ryan Homes has models of its townhome community. And, at the first of the year, a new model by Park Square Homes will open, with a rear-entry floor plan that will be priced in the high $300s.

In late June, ICI Homes opened its new Costa Mesa model near the community’s entrance on a beautiful waterfront homesite with long conservation views. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath, three-car garage plan is 2,565 square feet, and showcases a huge kitchen with extra-large island and closet-size, walk-in pantry that is cleverly hidden behind cabinetry.

ICI Homes also has a second model on a beautiful conservation lot, the Serena, that is now for sale and can include the model’s professionally decorated, high-end furnishings for families wanting a turn-key home ready now.

Ryan Homes offers two floor plans in Asturia’s only townhome community. These three-bedroom townhomes range from 1,580 square feet to 1,770 square feet, all with two-car, rear-entry, detached garages. The homes feature private outdoor courtyards with paver patios and privacy fencing. Prices begin in the $220s. Ryan Homes hit their halfway mark and have only 108 units to go. They have no inventory of homes, which allows the builder to customize new construction townhomes for its buyers.

“The beautiful Asturia community has so much to offer with its first class amenities, and our homes are at a perfect price that our sales have been brisk,” said Mona Cruz, one of the Ryan Homes sales team.

David Weekly Homes and ICI Homes have inventory homes available for families who are looking to move now or at the first of the year. These homes have special year-end pricing, which includes both price discounts and other incentives.

Park Square Homes is Asturia’s newest builder, and is building its Margate II model that features three bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage. This 1,966 square foot home has an inviting foyer with spacious flex room, an island kitchen with an abundance of cabinets and large den off the foyer. The Margate II starts at $319,990 and a model of this floorplan is expected to be completed in January.

Asturia is Park Square Homes first entry into Pasco County. It brings over 35 years of experience building quality homes in Central Florida, and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007 with communities in south Hillsborough County.

About Asturia
Asturia offers residents a kid-friendly, family oriented lifestyle surrounded by miles of multi-use trails, interspersed with dog parks and pocket parks. The community’s distinctive, 5,800-square-foot Amenity Center and Clubhouse includes a fully equipped fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a luxurious resort-style swimming pool and expansive lawn areas for recreation.

Currently in its third phase, when Asturia’s development is complete, it will likely have less than 550 single-family homes.

“What makes Asturia stand out from other new home developments is our smaller size,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines, the developer behind Asturia. “Other communities in the area are looking at 3,000 to over 5,000 homes, and many years of construction. Our families prefer the intimate neighborhood experience that comes with Asturia’s modest community size.”

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

A low-cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Asturia’s central location is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, and also provides close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. Its master plan incorporates retail, office, multifamily and a variety of single-family residential offerings.

More information can be obtained by visiting Asturia’s model homes, registering at the community’s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 510-3601.

Published November 27, 2019

Park Square Homes Is New Builder In Asturia

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Hines, developer of the master-planned community of Asturia in Odessa, is proud to announce the addition of Park Square Homes to its lineup of premier home builders.

“We welcome Park Square Homes to the Asturia family, because they have a good reputation and bring over 35 years of experience building quality homes,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines. “We look forward to Park Square Homes offering its quality homes in the final phase of our community, which is currently under way.”

Asturia residents enjoy a beach-entry pool, a contemporary clubhouse with large relaxing porches and event rooms, and a fully equipped fitness building next to the clubhouse.

Park Square Homes is a recognized leader in planning, design, development and sales of residential and resort-style homes. Every home is built with the highest quality products, attention to detail and exceptional customer service.

Homebuyers receive a New Home Road Map to make the buying experience easy and simple, so they understand the process every step of the way.

“Our commitment is to provide our homebuyers with an extraordinary home buying experience, keeping them informed and involved throughout the process,” said Laurie Tarver, vice president of sales and marketing for Park Square Homes.

Based in Orlando, Park Square Homes has been building homes in Central Florida since 1984, and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007.

Park Square Homes joins Asturia’s other prestigious builders, David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes and Ryan Homes. All have quick, move-in-ready homes available for families looking for a new home now. Prices in Asturia range from the $220s to $550s. Park Square Homes will be built on 50-foot lots, and prices are expected to fall in the middle range.

Asturia is located on State Road 54, just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway. It encompasses 500 acres of the former Behnke Ranch, which under Hines’ vision and management, has become an award-winning blend of shopping, office space, luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhomes.

Since Asturia opened three years ago, families of all ages and sizes have chosen this master-planned community as their new home because of its strategic location, beautiful lots and excellent schools.

Many of Asturia’s homesites back up to long, wilderness views of wetlands, cypress trees and rolling ranch land. Wildlife is everywhere, and residents enjoy community trails and boardwalks perfect for bird-watching, and often catch glimpses of deer, gopher tortoises, racoons and other native animals, during an evening stroll or morning run.

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

Setting Asturia apart from nearby master-planned communities is its manageable size of just 550 homes at build out, compared to thousands of homes and years of development in other communities.

“We feel more like an established community of neighborhoods, than a sprawling development that will be under construction for several years,” said Gardner. “Our residents like knowing that the size of their community is set, and that our amenities have been designed to provide enjoyment without the worry of overcrowding.”

Asturia is a friendly, walkable community that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle with its many trails, walkways, parks and recreational amenities. Neighborhood parks include a Kompan play structure, Ga-Ga Ball court, dog park and open event lawns. Its award-winning Amenity Center has a zero-entry, resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and contemporary clubhouse.

A low cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Asturia has received several prestigious awards, including Best Mixed-Use Community from the Florida Home Builders Association.

International developer Hines is known for its intelligent, ecologically smart design. It manages the community’s master plan with its high standards, which makes Asturia the most sustainable, eco-friendly community in Tampa Bay.

Learn more about Asturia by visiting AsturiaFlorida.com, or call (813) 227-4148. Model homes are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

Published August 28, 2019

Location, Beautiful Homesites And Excellent Schools at Asturia

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Over the past three years, families of all ages and sizes have chosen Asturia as a place to call home, drawn to this master-planned community for its strategic location, beautiful homesites and excellent schools.

Situated on 500 acres in Odessa along State Road 54, and located less than a mile  from the Suncoast Parkway, Asturia residents have fast and easy access to Tampa International Airport, the Westshore business district, downtown Tampa and area beaches.

Many of its homesites back up to incredible wilderness views of wetlands, cypress trees and rolling ranch land. Wildlife is everywhere, and residents enjoy community trails and boardwalks perfect for bird-watching, and to catch a glimpse of deer, gopher tortoises, racoons and other native animals, during an evening stroll or morning run.

A heron and a cormorant cool themselves by a neighborhood lake in Asturia, while children play on a Kompan structure designed to foster imagination and healthy bodies.

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

Setting Asturia apart from other master-planned communities is its manageable size of just 550 homes. It is a friendly, walkable development that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle with its many trails, walkways, parks and recreational amenities.

“We feel more like an established community of neighborhoods, than a sprawling development that will be under construction for several years,” said Lane Gardner, managing director for Hines, Asturia’s developer. “Our residents like knowing that the size of their community is set, and that our amenities have been designed to provide enjoyment without the worry of overcrowding.”

Families also enjoy living in Asturia because of the distinct sense of community that Hines has encouraged by hosting family events to make it easy for residents to get to know each another.

“Residents love our community events because it gets them together with neighbors, and lets them welcome new and prospective homeowners,” said Gardner. “We host events on a regular basis because they’re fun, and promote the friendly community culture Asturia is known for.”

Recent events include an Easter Egg Hunt, Oyster Roast, Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Hawaiian Luau. The community also celebrates the holidays with an annual Fall Festival and a Christmas Party.

Asturia’s award-winning Amenity Center has a zero-entry, resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and contemporary clubhouse. Neighborhood parks include a Kompan play structure, Ga-Ga Ball court, dog park and open event lawns.

A low cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Award-winning builders are offering a wide selection of floor plans and prices in Asturia’s final phase, and have new model homes ready to tour. Quick move-in homes are available for families looking for a new home in time for the 2019-20 school year.

Homes in Asturia range from the $220s to $550s, and many builders are currently offering special sales incentives. David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Ashton Woods and Ryan Homes all build homes from the ground up, and also have available several  inventory homes.

David Weekley Homes’ new one-story Crestview model is beautifully furnished, showcasing 2,100 square feet of living space with three bedrooms, a study, two full bathrooms and a two-car garage.

The Costa Mesa is ICI Homes’ new model. This one-story home features an open floor plan that brings together the gathering room, gourmet kitchen and dining room in one expansive space, with lots of windows to bring in natural light and sunlight.

Located near the front of Asturia are Ryan Homes’ easy-living townhouses, with two floor plans that have designer options and rear-load, two-car garages.

Ashton Woods has just two single-family homes remaining in Asturia in its one-story Truman plan, which offers1,962 square feet with four bedrooms and two baths.

Since its 2016 grand opening, Asturia has received several prestigious awards, including Best Mixed-Use Community from the Florida Home Builders Association. The community encompasses a blend of shopping, office space, luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhomes.

International developer Hines is known for its intelligent, ecologically smart design. It manages the community’s master plan with its high standards, which makes Asturia the most sustainable, eco-friendly community in Tampa Bay.

Learn more about Asturia and its builders by visiting AsturiaFlorida.com, or call (813) 227-4148.

Published July 24, 2019

Exciting New Year At Asturia

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There is much to look forward to this New Year at Asturia, the master-planned community in Odessa that is one of the most desired neighborhoods along the popular State Road 54 corridor in central Pasco County.

After almost three years of development, Asturia is now in its third phase, having completed 300 homes and releasing another 100 lots to its builders. Hines, the developer behind Asturia, is looking forward to an exciting spring with several new model homes under way by its builders.

Ryan Homes is celebrating the grand opening of Asturia’s first townhomes on Saturday, Feb. 16 at 11 a.m. Visitors will enjoy the festivities as they tour two beautifully decorated model homes. Both floor plans offer 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car rear garages, and unique courtyards between the home and garage. Square footage is 1,580 in the Chopin model, and 1,740 square feet in the Haydn. Prices begin in the low $220s.

“We are very excited to be offering townhomes in Asturia,” said Creighton Call, project director for Hines at Asturia. “Many families are looking for the convenience, affordability and low-maintenance that comes with the townhome lifestyle. We look forward to welcoming first-time homebuyers coming out of apartments, and more families wanting to downsize their living space.”

Upon completion, Ryan Homes will have 105 townhomes in Asturia, all just a short walk to the community’s expansive Amenity Center. For families wanting to move soon, five quick move-in townhomes will be available.

Asturia’s traditional homebuilders are award-winning Ashton Woods, David Weekley Homes and ICI Homes. Builders are offering homesites nestled near the community’s nature preserves, and will be opening new model homes this spring in Phase III.

“We’re seeing a lot of pent-up demand for our traditional homes in Phase III, because of the outstanding reputation of our builders, and because some of the deepest and most beautiful conservation lots available are located in Phase III,” said Call.

David Weekley Homes, which has been building in Asturia since the community opened in 2016, has seven quick move-in homes available in a variety of one- and two-story floor plans and homesites. Prices begin in the low $300s.

ICI Homes is Asturia’s other premium builder, and is known for its open floor plans and Florida-lifestyle features, such as summer kitchen patios, open balconies, lots of windows and the ability to customize any floor plan. The builder has four move-in ready homes available, with prices beginning in the high $300s.

Families with children often choose Asturia for the outstanding public schools its children are zoned to attend — Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle and J.W. Mitchell High. All are top-ranked by the Pasco County School District.

Another allure is Asturia’s unique amenity package, which includes a trail network, recreational parks and contemporary-style clubhouse, with a resort-style pool and state-of-the art fitness center. Neighborhood parks boast a Kompan play structure, a GaGa Ball court, and open event lawns to foster imaginative play and healthy, family fun.

Asturia’s system of picturesque walking trails and pocket parks feature bridges over sensitive land areas and trails that weave throughout the natural environment, resulting in one of Tampa Bay’s most sustainable, eco-friendly communities.

The community is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, with close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. It encompasses 500 acres of the former Behnke Ranch, which under Hines’ vision and management, has become an award-winning blend of shopping, office space, luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhomes.

Published January 23, 2019

16 Beautiful Ashton Woods Homes Ready For Your Family

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Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 85 percent of homesites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, selling over 100 single-family homes in this much-desired community,” said Marketing Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have under 30 homes available for sale, and expect all to be completed by the end of the year.”

Because most families want to move into their new home as soon as possible, Ashton Woods received permits from Pasco County for all of its remaining Asturia homesites.

“This saves our buyers up to three months in the building process,” said Kathy Midkiff, Ashton Woods’ community sales manager in Asturia.

“Our designers have put together beautiful combinations of flooring, countertops, design features and colors that will excite the vast majority of buyers,” she said. “Plus, we have a great combination of homes that convert flex space to extra bedrooms, add bonus rooms and extra baths, and have great outdoor living areas with front porches and extended lanais.”

Inventory Homes
Ashton Woods offers traditional one- and two-story homes in its Traditional home series.  All feature open floor plans, large living areas, beautiful master suites, high-end finishes and lots of storage. Homes have two-car garages, and many back up to private conservation homesites.

Spacious Classic Series
Five traditional, inventory homes are ready in the Classic series, including two, one-story homes. The versatile Odessa plan has three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths in 2,243 square feet. The larger Naples plan offers four bedrooms, three baths in 2,321 square feet.

Also ready now are three, two-story homes with two-car garages, including the Ferrara model home at 2,890 square feet with its four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The Milan is 2,722 square feet with four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. The largest home Ashton Woods builds in Asturia is the 3,365-square-foot Athens, which boasts four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths.

Affordable Heritage Series
Many first-time homebuyers and downsizing families choose the Heritage Series. Ashton Woods has two move-in ready, one-story homes available in these well-designed floor plans — the Truman at 1,961 square feet with four bedrooms and two baths; and the slightly smaller Adams plan at 1,829 square feet with three bedrooms and two baths.

Evergreen and Grove Series
Ashton Woods is the only builder in Asturia offering single-family homes with garages at the rear of the house.  There are five, quick move-in homes available in these series, all conveniently located close to Asturia’s Amenity Center.

There are three Arlington plans at 2,003 square feet, and also four Ortega plans at 2,189 square feet. These homes begin at $269,000.

Great Schools
“For families with children, Asturia is a very popular community because it is zoned for some of the best schools in Pasco County — J.W. Mitchell High, Seven Springs Middle and Odessa Elementary,” said Midkiff.

Asturia buyers prefer the community’s smaller size of just 550 homes, compared to thousands of homes being built in neighboring developments. Plus, they appreciate that construction will not be ongoing for several years.

Ashton Woods was named the 2017 Builder of the Year by Builder and Developer Magazine and, for the fourth consecutive year, has been ranked among the top three for Most Trusted Builders in America.

For more information, go to AshtonWoods.com/tampa/Asturia. You can also call the sales center at (813) 446-8362.

Published November 28, 2018

Local schools receive Special Olympics honor

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Land O’ Lakes High School’s Unified Special Olympics program received international attention more than three years ago, when its coed soccer team won the bronze medal at the 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles.

Now, the school’s Unified program has earned another prestigious honor — 2018 Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School.

The Land O’ Lakes High School Unified program has had many years of success. Under coach Vicky King in 2015, its coed soccer team won the bronze medal at the 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles, defeating China 2-1. (File)

The designation, based on the 2017-2018 school year, means Land O’ Lakes met 10 standards of excellence set forth by Special Olympics International. These standards focus on four key areas: Unified Sports, Inclusive Youth Leadership, Whole School Engagement and sustainability for the program.

Land O’ Lakes was one of just 13 schools in Florida — and 132 schools nationally — to receive the designation. New Port Richey’s Longleaf Elementary School and Seven Springs Middle School also were named Unified Champion Schools.

The Unified Special Olympics sports program pairs special needs athletes with nondisabled peers, called partners. Together, these athletes and partners compete year-round against other unified programs in sports, such as basketball, soccer, swimming, golf, and others.

According to Special Olympics Florida’s website, the Unified program enables Special Olympics athletes to not only learn and play new sports, but also experience meaningful inclusion. Each athlete is ensured of playing a valued role on the team. The teams also provide a forum for positive social interaction.

All participants are of similar age and ability, and unified teams are designed to provide training and competition opportunities that meaningfully challenge and involve all athletes.

Special Olympics sports rules, moreover, make sure that everyone has “a fair and enjoyable competitive experience.”

The national honor brings satisfaction to Vicky King, who’s coached Special Olympics programming at Land O’ Lakes for more than 30 years.

“It means that we’ve done a lot,” King said, “and, we have a student body and community that is very involved, because it’s all about inclusion and acceptance everywhere, not just in athletics, but just as a school and a community.”

According to King, the Land O’ Lakes Unified program last year featured more than 20 coed athletes and nearly 40 partners, representing a solid participation rate based on the school’s ESE (Exceptional Student Education) population.

For the 2018-2019 academic school year, the Pasco County school district relocated its special education unit —and Unified program— to Sunlake High School.

Before the transfer, King estimates the Unified program was installed at Land O’ Lakes sometime in the early 2000s, after the school had a traditional Special Olympics sports program.

King noted the Unified program did wonders for involvement between the school’s students with special needs and the rest of the student body. “If you look at some Special Olympics athletes in some places, they’re singled out, they’re not included; but when our athletes were here, they were just other kids,” King said.

Club keeps students involved with Special Olympics
While Land O’ Lakes no longer has its own Unified teams, the school still remains active in Unified sports programming. The school has an organization called the Student Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), which numbers about 90 students who volunteer at local Special Olympics events and/or become Unified partners.

Through the club, Land O’ Lakes sophomore Courtney Eckel became a Unified partner. She also volunteers with other Unified sports, as a scorekeeper in flag football and a lane assistant in bowling.

Courtney wanted to follow in the footsteps of her older sister, Haley Eckel, who’s volunteered for Special Olympics for several years and was a Unified partner on the Land O’ Lakes soccer team that went to the World Games. (Haley is also a former standout varsity soccer player at Land O’ Lakes and now a sophomore midfielder at Florida Southern College.)

The involvement has proven rewarding for Courtney.

“It’s really great,” she said of being a partner. “It’s so nice to see (the athletes) when they can do something good and score, and see the excitement on their face and know that they can do whatever they want to, and, it’s nice to play with them and help them achieve their goals.”

Courtney, too, believes Unified programming has been beneficial for promoting acceptance among all students.

“I think it’s really important because it keeps everyone included,” she said. “It teaches people how to be inclusive, even if someone’s not special needs. Just teaching how to include everyone and almost be like more understanding and respectful to everyone and their needs.”

King noted many Unified partners and volunteers develop bonds and tight-knit relationships with the athletes, adding that many continue as Special Olympics volunteers and participants through adulthood.

“It becomes just like a way of life,” said King, who still remains in touch with many of the athletes even after they’ve graduated from Land O’ Lakes.

In addition to the bonds they form, King noted that many local Unified athletes excel in their sport — regardless of intellectual or developmental disabilities.

King put it this way: “Sometimes the developmental delay is only academic. It has nothing to do with your physical capabilities, so a lot of our athletes are awesome athletes, so that’s why a lot of times on the field we’ll get called for player domination, rather than partner domination. Everything’s supposed to be equal, but we have some really good athletic partners and good athletes, so it makes a great combination.”

In all her years working in Special Olympics, King’s favorite memory comes as no surprise — the 2015 trip to Los Angeles.

“World Games was the best event — opening ceremonies and just the whole experience,” King said. “When we were out there, everyone just wanted to take pictures with us.”

Making Pasco proud
Pasco County has about 1,100 athletes and 500 Unified volunteers participating in more than a dozen sports, according to Special Olympics-Pasco co-director Val Lundin.

Having a trio of Pasco schools earn national recognition for their Unified programs is a testament to the commitment of those athletes, volunteers and coaches, she said.

“We’re very proud. We’re proud of all our athletes and our coaches,” said Lundin, who’s been involved with Special Olympics for more than 35 years, oversees the county’s Unified programs.

“It amazes me — Pasco County’s pretty small in comparison to many of the counties around the state, yet when we take our (state games) delegations, we’re always in the top five, as far as the amount of athletes, so we’re up there competing with the Orange and Miami-Dade (counties), which I think reflects well upon our program here. We’re obviously doing something right.”

Lundin also heaped plenty of praise towards King, who she said helps set the standard for many other Unified school programs in the county.

King was named Special Olympics Florida Coach of the Year in 2015.

In addition to dedicating her time toward Special Olympics, King is one of the state’s top varsity girls soccer coaches — guiding Land O’ Lakes to the state semifinals the last three years and winning a state title in 2003.

“There’s not enough you can say about Vicky,” Lundin said. “She’s just an amazing coach. She’s an amazing person. She just has a way about her that can bring the best out in her athletes and her partners. It’s just a reflection upon her and her club — the CEC club is one of the largest in the county. It takes a lot of time and work, and on top of it, she’s one of the top varsity soccer coaches in the county. She’s tireless, and she works hard. She believes in the program and her students, and it shows every day.”

National Banner Unified Champion School standards
A National Banner School must meet 10 standards of excellence among four categories, including unified sports, inclusive youth leadership, whole-school engagement and sustainability.

  • Unified Sports is offered in at least two seasons throughout the school year.
  • Unified Sports participation occurs regularly over the course of each sport season or school term and includes competition.
  • An adult coach for each sport has received training on Special Olympics Unified Sports.
  • Unified Sports is officially recognized by the school in a similar style as other athletics and activities.
  • A Unified Club or student group offers leadership opportunities and training for students with and without intellectual disabilities.
  • The inclusive club meets at least once per month throughout the school year.
  • The inclusive club has an adult liaison and is officially recognized by the school in a similar style as other clubs.
  • At least two whole-school engagement activities are implemented per school year.
  • Students with and without disabilities are involved with planning and leading the awareness activities.
  • The school is currently self-sustainable or has a plan in place to sustain the three components into the future.

These 10 standards of excellence were developed by a national panel of leaders in education and Special Olympics. A school meeting the standards is eligible to receive national banner recognition.

Land O’ Lakes High School is one of 13 Florida schools to be named a 2018 Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School.

Other recipients are: Seabreeze High School, Stirling Elementary School, Homestead Senior High, Park Vista High School, Lely High School, Longleaf Elementary School, Seven Springs Middle School, Plant City High School, Lawton Chiles High School, Leon High School, Tavares Middle School and Immokalee High School.

Published October 31, 2018

Brightman Family Loves Asturia and Their Ashton Woods Home

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Alex and Jessica Brightman were one of the first Ashton Woods homeowners in Asturia, a master-planned community in Odessa, along the State Road 54 corridor.

Two years later, the young couple will be bringing home their second child to their Ashton Woods home, when their son is born in January.

“We just love our Ashton Woods home and living in Asturia,” said Alex, who works in the IT field. “We have a huge corner lot and enjoy the open floor plan of our Milan model.”

Jessica and Alex Brightman and their daughter, Kensely, have lived in Asturia for two years and love the open floor plan of their Ashton Woods home.

His wife, Jessica, adds, “We’ve met so many people and have made so many friends. It’s been perfect for us and our daughter, Kensley.”

The Brightmans also credit their Ashton Woods salesperson, Kathy Midkiff, for making their homebuying experience so successful. “Kathy was absolutely wonderful and helped us every step of the way.”

“Asturia is the perfect location for us. We moved here from Dade City, so we especially appreciate the convenience of being close to the Suncoast Parkway. It’s so easy to get to downtown Tampa,” Jessica added.

The Brightmans are typical of many Ashton Woods families. The builder’s spacious floor plans are the most affordable homes in Asturia, with prices beginning under $300,000.

“We found there is a lot of value in our home —we have beautiful finishes and lots of space for our investment,” said Alex.

Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 80 percent of home sites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, and have sold over 100 families their new home in this much-desired community,” said Marketing Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have less than 30 move-in ready homes that remain, and expect all to be sold very soon.”

To encourage families to buy before the end of the year, all Ashton Woods homebuyers in Asturia that purchase in the Grove Series will receive a free stainless-steel refrigerator and washer/ dryer, a value of over $3,500. Plus, Ashton Woods is contributing $9,000 towards closing costs with its preferred lender*.

“There has never been a better time to buy an Ashton Woods home in Asturia,” said Wilson. “And, some of our best home values can be found in our Grove series, which feature two-car garages at the rear of the home.”

There are seven of these unique homes ready now as inventory homes, with the popular Arlington model beginning at just $276,999.

This 2,003-square-foot home features open-concept family and dining rooms that open to the kitchen, complete with 42-inch designer cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, an oversized island and walk-in pantry. Also, downstairs is a powder bathroom, valet area off the garage entry and ceramic tile floors throughout the entire first floor.

Upstairs, the Arlington’s master suite has a spacious bathroom with double vanities, walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms share a bath, and a laundry room is conveniently located upstairs.

“We have three Arlington homes ready for quick move-in, all under $280,000. It is a perfect first home and has many upgrades not usually found at this price point,” said Marketing Manager Wilson.

Ashton Woods also offers a slightly larger home in this series, the Ortega, at 2,193 square feet.

The Ortega has a soaring 20-foot volume ceiling foyer, a large open-concept kitchen, family room and breakfast nook. A formal dining room and butler’s pantry lead to the kitchen, which has 42-inch designer cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, an oversized island, and walk-in pantry. Downstairs also features a powder bathroom and plenty of storage closets.

Upstairs is a large master suite and bathroom with double vanities, walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. And, like the Arlington, there are two additional bedrooms that share a bath, and a convenient laundry room located upstairs.

“Our Ortega models begin at $296,990, which is a tremendous value for close to 2,200 square feet and Ashton Woods’ premium finishes,” said Wilson.

More Homes and Great Schools
Ashton Woods also offers classic one- and two-story homes in its traditional home series with the garage in the front.  All offer open floor plans, large living areas, beautiful master suites, high-end finish and lots of storage. Homes have two- or three-car garages, and many back up to private conservation lots.

“For families with children, Asturia is a very popular community because it is zoned for some of the best schools in Pasco County — J.W. Mitchell High, Seven Springs Middle and Odessa Elementary,” said Wilson.

Ashton Woods was named the 2017 Builder of the Year by Builder and Developer Magazine and, for the fourth consecutive year, has been ranked among the top three for Most Trusted Builders in America.

For more information, go to AshtonWoods.com/tampa/Asturia. You can also call the sales center at (813) 446-8362.

Published October 24, 2018

14 Beautiful Ashton Woods Homes Ready For Your Family

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Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 80 percent of homesites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, selling over 100 single-family homes in this much-desired community,” said Sales Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have under 40 homes available for sale, and expect all to be completed by the end of the year.”

Because most families want to move into their new home as soon as possible, Ashton Woods received permits from Pasco County for all of its remaining Asturia homesites.

“This saves our buyers up to three months in the building process,” said Jillian Harris, Ashton Woods’ community sales manager in Asturia.

“Our designers have put together beautiful combinations of flooring, countertops, design features and colors that will excite the vast majority of buyers,” she said. “Plus, we have a great combination of homes that convert flex space to extra bedrooms, add bonus rooms and extra baths, and have great outdoor living areas with front porches and extended lanais.”

While construction is underway on many homes, Ashton Woods buyers are still able to select flooring, countertops, cabinets and other nonstructural customizations on several homes that will be completed in November and December.

Inventory Homes
Ashton Woods offers classic one- and two-story homes in its Traditional Home Series. All feature open floor plans, large living areas, beautiful master suites, high-end finishes and lots of storage. Homes have two- or three-car garages, and many back up to private conservation lots.

Spacious Classic Series
Five traditional, inventory homes are ready in the Classic Series, including two, one-story homes. The versatile Odessa plan has three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths in 2,243 square feet. The larger Naples plan offers four bedrooms, three baths in 2,321 square feet.

Also ready now are three, two-story homes with two-car garages, including the Ferrara model home at 2,890 square feet with its four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The Milan is 2,722 square feet with four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. The largest home Ashton Woods builds in Asturia is the 3,365-square-foot Athens, which boasts four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths.

Affordable Heritage Series
Many first-time homebuyers and downsizing families choose the Heritage Series. Ashton Woods has two move-in ready, one-story homes available in these well-designed floor plans — the Truman at 1,961 square feet with four bedrooms and two baths. The slightly smaller Adams plan is 1,829 square feet with three bedrooms and two baths.

Evergreen and Grove Series
Ashton Woods is the only builder in Asturia offering single-family homes with garages at the rear of the house. There are seven, quick move-in homes available in these series, all conveniently located close to Asturia’s Amenity Center.

There are three Arlington plans at 2,003 square feet, and also four Ortega plans at 2,189 square feet. These homes begin at $279,000.

Great Schools
“For families with children, Asturia is a very popular community because it is zoned for some of the best schools in Pasco County — J.W. Mitchell High, Seven Springs Middle and Odessa Elementary,” said Harris.

Asturia buyers prefer the community’s smaller size of just 550 homes, compared to thousands of homes being built in neighboring developments. Plus, they appreciate that construction will not be ongoing for several years.

Ashton Woods was named the 2017 Builder of the Year by Builder and Developer Magazine and, for the fourth consecutive year, has been ranked among the top three for Most Trusted Builders in America.

For more information, go to AshtonWoods.com/tampa/Asturia. You can also call the sales center at (813) 446-8362.

Published September 26, 2018