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Cirque du Soleil Is Back on Ice

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Fusing World-Class Ice-Skating with Breathtaking Acrobatics

Cirque du Soleil on Ice is returning to Tampa with a new creation that will spin its audience into the vibrant world of Cirque du Soleil AXEL, with seven performances only, at Amalie Arena, opening Oct. 31.

This unique show highlights world-class acrobatic skating performances set in fantastical universes, combined with full-spectrum visual effects and awesome live music, seamlessly integrating popular songs with new original scores.

“The success of our first creation on ice has reinforced our ambition to further explore the extensive creative possibilities of a frozen playground,” says Daniel Fortin, vice president Creation. “With Cirque du Soleil AXEL, we are offering a truly electrifying experience to all audiences, pushing the boundaries of creativity with the unique approach that has forged the reputation of Cirque du Soleil.”

The performance tells the story of Axel, a young man, and his dynamic group of friends, whose passion for live music and graphic arts come to life in an exhilarating adventure. Axel’s journey reminds the audience that everyone’s dreams are within reach, as they discover this young artist as he falls for the fascinating Lei in a high-speed chase for love and self-realization.

The electrifying experience of Cirque du Soleil AXEL includes stunning performances blending ice-skating, acrobatics and live music that leaves its audiences astounded!

About Cirque du Soleil
Cirque du Soleil AXEL is the 48th original production of Cirque du Soleil, part of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and its second on-ice experience.

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is a world leader in live entertainment. On top of producing world-renowned circus arts shows, the Canadian organization brings its creative approach to a large variety of entertainment forms, such as multimedia productions, immersive experiences, theme parks and special events.

It currently has 4,500 employees from nearly 70 countries. Going beyond its various creations, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group aims to make a positive impact on people, communities and the planet with its most important tools: creativity and art. For more information about Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, please visit CDSentertainmentgroup.com.

Performances
Oct. 31 to Nov. 3
Thurs., Oct. 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 2 at 11:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.
Sun., Nov. 3 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Tickets
Amalie Arena Ticket Office
401 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 301-2500
Mon. to Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Online at CirqueDuSoleil.com/AXEL

Information
CirqueDuSoleil.com/AXEL
Follow #AXELCirque and #CirqueduSoleil
Social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Partners
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group would like to thank Hennessy Black, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, Realtor.com and Villa Maria, our Official Partners of Cirque du Soleil AXEL.

 

Mattamy Townhomes Feature Island Kitchens and Spacious Lanais

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Carmen Livingstone recently moved to her new townhome at Lakeview at Citrus Park and could not be happier with the quality of her new home, and the outstanding service she received from Mattamy’s staff.

“Everyone was so helpful, and just wonderful to work with,” said Livingstone, who downsized from a 4,000-square-foot home in a nearby community. “I love that everything is brand new, and that I do not have to worry about maintenance or upkeep. Plus, this is a gated community, so I feel very safe and secure.”

The Marianna floor plan has a beautiful island kitchen and an abundance of cabinets. (Randy Underhill)

Livingstone bought the Marianna floor plan which, at 1,660 square feet, is the smallest townhome of five floor plans available in this 124-townhome community.

“My home feels so spacious, with an amazing great room/kitchen/dining combination, three large bedrooms and two baths upstairs, plus a half bath down,” said Livingstone.

Livingston likes that all of her bedrooms are on the second floor.

“I like having the bedrooms upstairs for the privacy, and because it gives me so much room downstairs,” said Livingstone. “While I am retired, I am healthy and active, and going up and down the stairs is good for me because it gives me exercise and keeps me moving!”

Livingstone’s lanai, which stretches across the entire back of her home, is one of the favorite places in her new home.

“My lanai overlooks a stand of trees that is great for bird watching, plus they give me privacy,” said Livingstone. “I love to garden, and my lanai is the perfect amount of space for my plants and to enjoy the outdoors.”

Carmen Livingstone’s spacious lanai in her new Mattamy townhome is perfect for gardening and enjoying the outdoors.

Because Livingstone loves being outside, another big draw for Livingstone is the community’s access to tranquil Gant Lake, where residents share a community pier for fishing, kayaking and paddle-boarding.

“Just about every evening, I walk down to the lake and enjoy the magnificent sunsets from the pier,” said Livingstone. “And, in the morning, I enjoy coffee on my lanai — there is so much nature here to enjoy.”

Lakeview at Citrus Park has recently released a new building and has several quick inventory homes available beginning in the high $200s. Currently, Mattamy is offering an incentive of paid closing costs on select homes.

In addition to retirees like Livingstone, residents include young families, whose youngsters enjoy the community’s tot lot, and professionals looking for an easy commute to the airport, the Westshore business district and downtown Tampa.

Lakeview at Citrus Park offers one on the most convenient locations in the north Tampa area. It is adjacent to the Veterans Expressway, located just south of the Ehrlich Road exit at the end of Tom Fuller Road.

Avea Pointe In Lutz
Five miles north of Lakeview at Citrus Park, also located next to the Veterans Expressway, is Mattamy Homes’ Lutz community of Avea Pointe.

Located off Van Dyke Road, just west of Dale Mabry Highway, Avea Pointe is especially popular with families because of the excellent schools its children attend: Steinbrenner High, Martinez Middle and Schwarzkopf Elementary. Plus, Sunlake Academy of Math and Science, a charter school for grades K-8, is just a mile away on Dale Mabry Highway.

This gated community’s new amenity center just opened and features a resort-style pool and cabana with grill area.

Avea Pointe offers unique, open floor plans, all with 2-car garages. It will soon be introducing two additional floor plans with one-car garages, for those looking for smaller homes. Current base pricing for these smaller plans begin in the upper $200s. An array of quick move-in homes is available with special savings, with HOA fees paid on select homes for a limited time only.

Model homes are under construction and slated to be complete in October. The sales center is located onsite and is open daily. At 5653 Van Dyke Road in Lutz (Van Dyke Road, just West of Lakeshore Road).

Visit MattamyHomes.com, or call (813) 580-7303, to learn more about these communities. Buyers of quick move-in homes enjoy special savings and incentives. Please see a New Home Counselor for terms and conditions.

Published August 28, 2019

Live In Avalon Park West — Wesley Chapel’s New Downtown

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When families are looking for a new place to call home, they have several master-planned communities to choose from in Pasco County. But, there’s none quite like Avalon Park West in Wesley Chapel.

“We are not just developers— we are building a brand new town,” said Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of marketing and community relations for the Avalon Park Group. “We’re so much more than just another planned community – we’re bringing together everything a family needs to enjoy life today, and in the future.”

Artist rendering of downtown Avalon Park West. It’s first phase, with 130,000 square feet of mixed commercial, will open next summer.

Avalon Park West has been welcoming families since 2012, when this community on State Road 54, east of I-75, began building its first homes. Today, 700 homes have been completed or are underway, and 1,500 people live in the community enjoying its unique amenities, neighborhood schools, and convenient location with easy access to Tampa, Lakeland and Orlando.

Residents can choose floorplans from the community’s builders, Avex Homes and Beazer Homes, who offer a variety of home styles, including single-family homes and townhomes. Apartments and senior housing are planned for future phases.

“Our builders offer homes for all demographics — from young families buying their first home, to folks looking to move up to a new home in an upscale community, to empty-nesters wanting the convenience of the no-fuss, townhome lifestyle,” said Lerret. “Avalon is just like a real town — we have homes priced for everyone, from teachers to physicians.”

In addition to its desirable selection of homes ranging from the low $200s to over $400s, Avalon also offers residents places to shop and work in its downtown hub that will be connected to its residential neighborhoods by tree-lined streets, walkways and bike paths.

Construction began last fall on the first phase of downtown Avalon Park West, which includes 130,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial space, with 100 apartments being built above the storefronts.

“We’re building beautiful, two-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 Lerret.

And, unlike most subdivisions, Avalon Park West’s commercial area is not strip centers facing the busy road at the community’s entrance.

“We are building a traditional downtown, with stores located inside of our community on the boulevard road leading to our residences, parks and schools,” said Lerret. “We are creating a town that spreads out from the town center connecting to individual neighborhoods — very much like the footprints of small towns found across America.”

The first phase of downtown Avalon Park West will open next summer, at the same time that the expansion of State Road 54 is completed to become a four-lane road.

“We already have a traffic light installed at our residential entrance, and a second light has been approved for our downtown entrance. With these lights, and the widening of State Road 54, it will be easier and quicker for our residents to get to I-75 to the west, and U.S. 301 to the east,” said Lerret.

Downtown Avalon will continue to be built over the next several years, as more residential units are built. Eventually, there will be more than 560,000 square feet of retail, and 120,000 square feet of office space, in its bustling, pedestrian-friendly downtown.

“Our community will not only be a place to live and learn, but also a place to shop and work,” said Lerret. “Joining our retail stores will be small businesses in office parks that will employ our residents, such as doctors, dentists, veterinarians, service businesses and satellite offices of larger companies.”

At the same time that the community’s downtown opens, a new charter school, Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel, will open at the community’s entrance.

Students who live in Avalon Park West are zoned to excellent public schools, including New River Elementary (located inside the community), Thomas E. Weightman Middle School and Wesley Chapel High School.

When not in school, youngsters and families enjoy a wide array of amenities at Avalon Park West, including a community garden, swimming pools, tot lots, basketball courts, pocket parks with mini-libraries, dog park, and trails and walkways that will interconnect with its downtown.

Opening later this summer is a second amenity center with a zero-entry pool, splash pad, workout area and spa, and covered picnic area. Looking ahead, a Regional Park with soccer, football and baseball fields is planned for Avalon Park West, in conjunction with Pasco County Parks & Recreation.

Avalon Park West will continue to be developed for the next several years. At build out, this 1,650-acre master-planned community will have about 4,400 single and multi-family homes, and become home to 10,000 residents.

“We have been planning Avalon Park West for many years, and have a clear vision of its future,” said Lerret. “Our owners bought the land in the mid 1980s from the Bill Brown family – one of Wesley Chapel’s pioneer families, and have always been committed to being good stewards to this beautiful land, and making it the premier community in the area.”

Avalon Park West

Wesley Chapel
– State Road 54, 7 miles east of I-75

1,650-acre master-planned community
– Developer: Avalon Park Group, Orlando

Single-family homes and townhomes
– Today: 700 homes and 1,500 residents
– Build Out: 4,400 homes and 10,000 residents
– New homes begin in low $200s

Schools
– New River Elementary
– Weightman Middle
– Wesley Chapel High
– Pinecrest Wesley Chapel charter school opens fall 2020

New Amenity Center
– Opens fall 2019
– Zero-entry pool, splash pad, covered picnic area

Town Center
– Opens summer 2020
– First phase: 130,000 sq. ft. of mixed commercial
– Apartments above retail

Builders
– Avex Homes
– Beazer Homes
– Homes beginning in low $200s

Published July 24, 2019

New ICI Homes Opens New Model In Asturia

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ICI Homes is celebrating the grand opening of its new model home in Asturia this weekend, June  29 and 30. In addition to enjoying a guided tour and light refreshments, visitors can enter a $500 gift card giveaway being sponsored by Caliber Home Loans.

“Our new model, the Costa Mesa, is one of our most popular floor plans, and this model is absolutely stunning,” said Leah Turner, Tampa sales manager for ICI Homes. “The decorating is gorgeous, and the lake view is incredible. This is definitely a model home that must be toured to be fully appreciated.”

The spacious Costa Mesa kitchen features an extra-large island, and opens graciously into a large great room that overlooks the home’s outside living areas.

The Costa Mesa model is easy to find not far from the entrance to Asturia, an award-winning, master-planned community in Odessa. It is conveniently located just west of the Suncoast Parkway along the in-demand State Road 54 corridor in Pasco County, giving residents quick access to downtown Tampa, the Westshore district and area beaches.

The new Costa Mesa model is located in Asturia’s recently-opened Phase III. Visitors can also tour ICI Homes’ other model, the Serena, located in Asturia’s second phase in the rear of the community. Models are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

The Costa Mesa is a one-story home that showcases 2,565 square feet of living area, with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and a three-car garage.

“This home’s open floor plan brings together the gathering room, gourmet kitchen and dining room in one expansive space that incorporate lots of windows to bring in natural light,” said Turner. “It is perfect for all kinds of families — young professionals just starting out, those with young and school-aged children, and couples who are downsizing.”

Turner adds that one-story plans are always in demand because of the natural flow from one room to the next, and the convenience of having everything on the same level.

ICI Homes has 38 homesites available in Asturia’s Phase III, and offers buyers over a dozen distinctive floor plans to choose from. The builder also has a few homesites remaining in the community’s Phase II, including its Serena model home and several showcase homes at various stages of construction.

ICI Homes in Phase III begin in the mid $300s, which include the home, lot and design center options. Many homesites back up to conservation and water.

“A lot of families have been waiting for Asturia’s Phase III to open because of its pristine home sites with conservation views and attractive pricing,” said Ron Ferguson, division manager for ICI Homes. “Buyers love Asturia’s affordability, convenient location and outstanding amenities.”

Amenities in this 550-home community include a unique trails system that winds through wetlands, parks and neighborhoods, and an award-winning Amenity Center that includes a zero-entry pool, contemporary community center and state-of-the-art fitness center.

Final Homes In Bexley
If you’re looking for a new home in Land O’ Lakes, this is the last chance to buy an ICI Home in Bexley, an award-winning development by Newland that is located just east of Asturia and easily accessible to the Suncoast Parkway.

Bexley offers thousands of acres of preserved wetlands, parks and playgrounds, and miles of walking and bike trails. Other amenities include a clubhouse, pools, fitness center, bike shop and café.

ICI Homes is building its final three homes in Bexley, all on large 70-foot lots. A Costa Mesa quick move-in home will soon be ready, and the slightly smaller Egret VII will soon be under construction. Both homes have very open plans with lots of windows and natural lighting.

ICI Homes, one of Florida’s most acclaimed builders, builds new homes in desirable master-planned communities that offer beautiful homes sites, excellent schools and expansive amenities that promote an active lifestyle.

Since ICI Homes was established in 1980, the company has built over 4,000 single-family homes in Florida, including the Tampa Bay area, and has earned several prestigious awards for design and innovation.

The sales center for Asturia and Bexley is at 2112 Secret Cove in Odessa, (813) 359-0264.

Published June 26, 2019

Hiking, Biking, Shopping and Dining – All Close To Mattamy Homes’ Townhome Communities

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Mattamy Homes’ two new townhome communities in Lutz and Citrus Park are selling fast because buyers love the fantastic assortment of close-by things to do, from recreational outings to fabulous shopping to an epicurean array of restaurants.

“Our buyers at Avea Pointe in Lutz and Lakeview at Citrus Park are active, engaged families who love being close to so many things to do,” said Kathleen Dec, marketing manager at Mattamy Homes. “These are perfect communities for people who want fun things to do with family and friends of all ages.”

The floor plan of the four-bedroom, three-bath Venice townhome with its gorgeous kitchen received a prestigious Silver Award during the recent Tampa Bay Parade of Homes Tampa.

Avea Pointe is five minutes away from Hillsborough County’s expansive Lake Park, with its non-motorized boat access, hiking trails, BMX track and multiple playgrounds. At Lakeview, its homes overlook tranquil Gant Lake at the end of Tom Fuller Road, where residents have a community pier for fishing, kayaking and paddle-boarding.

Both communities also are an easy drive to Brooker Creek Headwaters Nature Preserve, with its flats fishing, walking trails and observation tower. Plus, there are nearby golf courses and equestrian stables, ice skating in Wesley Chapel, and even hot air balloon rides when the weather is right.

When it comes to shopping, Avea Point is just 20 minutes to Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz and The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel, while Lakeview is minutes away to Westfield Citrus Park Mall, and a quick trip down the Veterans Expressway to International Plaza and Westshore Plaza in Tampa.

An array of well-appointed townhomes is now ready at both communities, with quick move-in homes available for families wanting to get settled before the 2019-2020 school year begins.

Avea Pointe In Lutz
Avea Pointe is located off Van Dyke Road on Lakeshore Road, directly across from Mattamy Homes’ Lakeshore Preserve community. It offers three unique floor plans designed to live like single-family homes.

All townhomes feature large open kitchens, optimized living spaces, covered lanais and 2-car garages.  The Santa Rosa is 1,913 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with an owner’s suite on the first level; the Sebring is 2,230 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths; and the Venice is 2,574 square feet with 4 bedrooms (including a first-floor bedroom) and 3 baths. Prices begin in the low $300s.

“We offer some of the largest townhomes in the area,” said Dec. “Their unique designs are perfect for first-time homebuyers, families with children and empty-nesters.”

Avea Pointe is just minutes from St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, within 2 miles of the Veterans Expressway and an easy commute to Tampa, the airport and area beaches.

Excellent schools are another reason families move to Avea Pointe, whose children are zoned to Steinbrenner High, Martinez Middle and Schwarzkopf Elementary, all less than 3 miles away on Lutz Lake Fern Road.

Lakeview Already 30% Sold Out
Mattamy Homes has only been selling in Lakeview at Citrus Park since August, and already over 30 percent of its homes have sold. The community will have 124 townhomes when completed.

“Lakeview at Citrus Park is one of the prettiest and most convenient locations in the north Tampa area,” said Dec. “Our new models are beautifully decorated and furnished, and feel as spacious and private as single-family homes. Plus, prices in this community are very affordable, beginning in the mid $200s.”

Five floor plans are available. The Marianna (1,667 sq. ft.) and Ormond (1,888 sq. ft.) have 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and single garages. The Santa Rosa (1,928 sq. ft.) has 3 bedrooms, one of which is located downstairs, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. The Sebring (2,230 sq. ft.) has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 2-car garage. The Venice (2,574 sq. ft.) has 4 bedrooms, including one downstairs, 3 baths and a double garage.

 Visit MattamyHomes.com, or call (813) 580-7303, to learn more about these communities. Buyers of quick move-in homes enjoy special savings, including closing costs paid.

Published May 22, 2019

A new home health division at Gulfside

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Talk about having a good week.

Last Wednesday, after months of organizational work, Gulfside Home Health accepted its first patient. And on Thursday, it celebrated the grand opening of its new Land O’ Lakes office with a chamber of commerce ribbon cutting.

A ribbon cutting was held last week for Gulfside Home Health, a new division of Gulfside Health Services that provides skilled home nursing and therapies ordered by a physician. Celebrating with the ribbon held high is Gulfside President Linda Ward; holding the scissors is Cheryl-Ann Benn, administrator for Gulfside Home Health.

“It’s exciting to be growing and offering new services to our community,” said Linda Ward, president and chief executive officer of the agency. “Providing skilled home care to patients is a perfect complement to our hospice and palliative care services that we have been providing for a long time.”

With the launch of its home health division, the nonprofit has changed its name to Gulfside Healthcare Services, with three distinct divisions — Gulfside Home Health, Gulfside Hospice and Gulfside Palliative Care.

“Gulfside has served Pasco residents since 1988, and we are well-known for our quality care and community focus for hospice and palliative care. We are bringing this same dedication to home health, and look forward to providing this much-needed service to our community,” said Ward.

Gulfside Home Health is offering skilled home health services that are ordered by a patient’s doctors, including nursing, therapy and patient education.

Gulfside’s nursing staff provides wound care, injections, IV infusions, pain management and medication oversight. And, its licensed therapists offer physical, occupational and speech therapies. All services and treatments are done in a patient’s home.

“There are many advantages of taking care of someone in their home instead of in a hospital or rehab center,” said Cheryl-Ann Benn, who heads up Gulfside Home Health as its administrator.

“Patients are more comfortable at home, family is there for support, and no transportation is needed because our health care providers come to them.”

Benn adds that home care especially helps with patients who easily get confused in unfamiliar places, which is common toward the end of day when people with memory problems suffer from sun-downing effects.

“We plan our visits around a client’s schedule, right down to avoiding a favorite television show,” said Benn. “Families can choose the time that is best for them.”

Most appointments are scheduled between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., and only skilled care ordered by a physician is provided. Patients are not charged directly for the care they receive — Gulfside bills Medicare or private insurance, not its patients.

Benn clarifies that Gulfside’s service line features skilled nursing care and various therapies, unlike many other companies that simply offer companion care, bathing or assistance with meals and shopping.

“Our team specializes in the advanced care that must be done by a nurse or professional,” said Benn. “There are many private companies that offer non-medical services that do not qualify for payment under Medicare of private insurance.”

Benn joined Gulfside Home Health in February to prepare for Joint Commission Accreditation, to hire staff and get the office ready next to Gulfside’s thrift shop on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

Gulfside Home Health received its license on April 5 for Pasco and Pinellas counties, and since then has hired RN and LPN nurses, home health aides, a social worker and physical therapist, as well as contracting for occupational and speech therapists.

“We have an outstanding staff with many years of experience — I couldn’t be happier with the team we’ve put together,” said Benn.

Patient referrals come from hospitals, rehab facilities and doctors’ offices, and patients can choose which home health service best meets their needs.

Benn and Ward believe many families will chose Gulfside Home Health because of the stellar reputation of Gulfside’s hospice and palliative care services, and because it is a nonprofit.

“Being a nonprofit allows us to create programs for clients and their families they are not reimbursed for through Medicare or private insurance,” explained Ward. “We can host community events to raise funds for additional services, and are looking at developing programs on COPD, diabetic meals and foot care, caregiver support, and many others,” said Benn.

Ward added that offering home health services is taking Gulfside to a higher service level and is a logical next step. In the first few months, Gulfside Home Health expects to serve 30 to 50 patients, and then grow to over 120.

“We want to offer a continuum of service, while remaining community-based,” said Ward.

Published May 15, 2019

Biscayne Homes Opens Model In Epperson

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Biscayne Homes is a new homebuilder in Tampa Bay whose partners bring 30-plus years of expertise in superior construction practices and innovative design to the Wesley Chapel community of Epperson.

“Compared to other homes in our price range, we believe we build a better home with superior construction methods and floor plans never seen before in Tampa Bay,” said David Adler, a partner in the business.

All Biscayne Homes residences are just a short walk or bicycle ride to Epperson’s unique Crystal Lagoon pool.

Working with Adler is Emmanuel Stern, who also heads up the company’s Epperson community of 107 single-family homes.

“All of our homes are built on 75-foot lots — the largest homesites available in Epperson,” said Stern. “And, our homes have the closest proximity to the Crystal Lagoon in the community.”

All Biscayne Homes residences are just a short walk or bicycle ride to Epperson’s unique Crystal Lagoon pool and recreation area. This 7.5-acre, 16-million-gallon amenity has crystal clear water that is perfect for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, sailing on small boats and relaxing in its quiet cabana coves.

“We chose Epperson as our first community because we want to be part of the Crystal Lagoon phenomenon and the fabulous amenities it offers our buyers,” said Stern.

Grand Opening
Biscayne Homes is celebrating the grand opening of its Sabal 3 model home this weekend, March 30 and March 31, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., both days. Open houses will continue the following two weekends: April 6 and April 7, and April 13 and April 14.

Culminating its grand opening celebrations is a ribbon cutting on Thursday, April 11 from 4 to 6 p.m., which is being hosted by the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.

The Sabal 3 model is beautifully decorated and offers a spacious floor plan at 4,271 square feet. The home has coffered ceilings in its oversized living room, master bedroom and dining room, a high-end kitchen with an oversized island, 3 bedrooms on the first floor, a large bonus room, and 4th and 5th bedrooms on the second floor, and 4.5 baths.

All Biscayne Homes floor plans have the option to convert a side garage and adjacent flex room to a large and airy in-law suite with a bedroom, private living area, full bath and lots of windows for natural lighting.

The side garage is also ideal for active families to store bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards and even golf carts — all which enhance their Crystal Lagoon lifestyle.

Biscayne Homes executives are also excited to be introducing its superior construction process to the Tampa market.

“Our homes are built to the high standards required in south Florida, which means our homes are more wind and water resistant than most homes built in Tampa,” said Adler. “An example is our use of concrete block, instead of wood, to build the second floor of our homes.”

Biscayne Homes also incorporates the latest in international design trends that are popular in south Florida, but new to this area.

“We design our homes so that all space is truly usable, and that all living areas flow smoothly together,” said Adler. “We also offer as standard features 10-foot ceilings and large bedrooms that easily accommodate queen-size beds and dressers.”

In addition to the Sabal 1, 2 and 3 floor plans, Biscayne Homes offers six more distinct floor plans, offering three unique elevations — Key West, Modern and Mediterranean. As a semi-custom builder, their floor plans can be customized to meet the needs of the buyer, including moving walls to create larger rooms.

Homes begin at 3,174 square feet with the one-story Sabal 1, and go up to 5,227 square feet with the two-story Canary 3. Prices begin in the mid $400s.

Epperson Amenities
Epperson’s Crystal Lagoon is the length of five football fields with fingers that stretch out 1/4 mile in length from the main lagoon. The lagoon’s average depth is 8 feet, with some areas as deep as 12 feet, and features swim-up bars and restaurants along its shores.

Located inside Pasco County’s Connected City corridor, Epperson residents have ULTRAFi, which offers 1 gigabit of Internet speed and up to 1 gigabit at individual homes.

“Living in an ULTRAFi community means there are no buffering delays as residents play, watch, game, surf and stream by the pool, on the trails, at the playground and right inside their homes,” said Stern.

About Biscayne Homes
Biscayne Homes’ partners have decades of experience, including leadership positions with Builders Association of South Florida Past President and earning the top distinction of Builder of the Year. Together, this team has been responsible for creating 30,000 new homes in Florida, Texas, and other key destinations around the world, with homes ranging in price from $300,000 to $15 million.

“With our key focus on craftsmanship and personalized customer service, we invite you to visit our new model and see firsthand the unique homes we build at Epperson, along with the community’s unique lagoon lifestyle,” said Stern.

Tour Biscayne Homes’ model home at 7858 Roma Dune Drive, Wesley Chapel, FL 33545. For more information, visit BiscayneHomes.com, call (813) 291-4886, or email .

Published March 27, 2019

Lakeside A/C Begins Third Year Under Ron Ierna’s Leadership

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In the two years since Ron Ierna opened his new company, Lakeside Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, he has created a culture of technical expertise and exceptional customer service that has helped hundreds of Tampa Bay families with their air conditioning and plumbing needs.

“I’ve been in this business for almost 25 years, both as a technician and owner of two HVAC companies,” said Ierna. “That experience has allowed me to hire the most qualified A/C and plumbing technicians in the area, and to build an office staff that always focuses on the customer.”

Owner, Ron Ierna

Ierna is a Florida native, growing up in Lutz and graduating from Land O’ Lakes High School. He went to work in the A/C industry after high school, and discovered that he had the aptitude and skills needed to excel as a technician.

A few years later, he started his first A/C company with a partner, which grew to over 65 employees by the time he left that business in 2016 to start Lakeside Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

“I took all that I learned from my previous business, and applied it to make Lakeside successful,” said Ierna. “I plan to keep this company small, with no more than 10 service vehicles on the road, to ensure that I can provide my customers top-notch technicians and a more personalized experience.”

Ierna’s experience and passion for customer service is key to Lakeside’s quick success.

“After 24 years of helping families with their A/C and plumbing problems, I’ve seen every problem there is, and can quickly and accurately assess the best course of action when someone calls,” said Ierna.

In addition to making service calls himself, Ierna employs licensed HVAC and plumbing technicians, all who are highly skilled craftsmen who specialize in designing, servicing and installing HVAC systems and water heaters.

This expertise allows Lakeside Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to specialize in helping families with A/C units that are 10 to 15 years old.

“There are thousand of homes in Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel that were built in the early 2000s, and whose air conditioning systems need service and upgrades,” said Ierna. “We can save these homeowners a lot of money and stress if they call before the system breaks down in the heat of the summer.”

Lowering your energy cost is another reason to upgrade your A/C system, Ierna adds.

“Most people see savings of 20 to 50 percent on their power bill when they upgrade to a new system with a higher SEER rating,” he said. “All the units we install have a minimum SEER rating of 14, and our top-rated, quietest Rheem system gives an unbelievable rating of 20.5.”

Lakeside Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is proud to be recognized as a Rheem Pro Partner, a prestigious designation awarded by the manufacturer to contractors who adhere to continuing education, professionalism and exceptional customer service guideline. The company has also earned an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, an A Rating from Angie’s List, and is a 5 Star Contractor with HomeAdvisor.

“We are very proud of these honors bestowed on our company, which is a reflection of the quality work of our entire team,” said Ierna.

In addition to Rheem air-conditioning systems, it also installs systems made by Trane, Goodman, Frigidaire and Mitsubishi. Both Duke Energy and TECO offer rebates of up to $800 to customers who replace their old system with a new unit that has a SEER rating of 15 or higher.

The plumbing division of the company installs water filtration systems and hot water heaters, and helps homeowners qualify for up to $550 in water tank rebates with the purchase of tankless gas system. Lakeside takes care of all rebate paperwork for its customers through its customer service department.

Working alongside Ierna in the field is Omar Matos, Michael Moody, Robert Love, Richard Harrilal and Robert Goldsborough, who all strive to use their vast expertise to provide the best experience for each and every customer. Jackie Horruitiner and Amy Miranda work in customer service.

Lakeside Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is located on U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes. Its central location gives it fast access to customers in Pasco, Hillsborough and Hernando counties.

“We take our responsibility very seriously when you place your trust in us,” said Ron. “Please give us a call, and see what you’ve been missing.”

Lakeside is located at 4608 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., and can be reached at (813) 444-9474 or LakesideComfortPros.com.

Published March 13, 2019

Local residents will soon be able to Live Longer with Earth Fare

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If you’ve driven by Cypress Creek Town Center lately, you might have noticed the newest addition coming soon: natural supermarket Earth Fare.

Terms like “healthy” and “natural” are authentic at Earth Fare. In fact, they’ve been leading the mission to bring healthy food to everyone for over 40 years.

It starts with its Food Philosophy, a guide to what is and isn’t allowed on its shelves, and the roots of that philosophy that started more than 40 years ago in Asheville, North Carolina. It was the city’s first natural food store, and it had a mission to let people take control of their health with real food.

In 1993, when artificial ingredients were on the rise, Earth Fare wanted to better define “real food,” and started its food philosophy by banning hydrogenated oils from its shelves. The philosophy has continued to evolve, and banned ingredients now include high fructose corn syrup; artificial fats and trans-fats; synthetic growth hormones; artificial sweeteners; bleached and bromated flour; antibiotics; artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Now, Earth Fare reads the labels, so you don’t have to.

Earth Fare made headlines two years ago when it challenged Americans to take control of their health through their food choices and Live Longer With Earth Fare®. To further that commitment, Earth Fare launched its healthy lifestyle magazine, The Clean Plate — a guide to eating clean and living a healthier, longer life.

Page by page, The Clean Plate walks the reader through why the Earth Fare difference matters by examining every category of the store, outlining Earth Fare’s approach to meat and seafood, pantry staples, prepared foods, bakery, specialty, wellness and beauty.

Earth Fare stores offer more organic produce than anyone in the industry, and its commitment to organic and non-GMO can be seen throughout the entire store. In fact, all Earth Fare private brand products are made with only non-GMO ingredients. The meat and seafood department carries everything from organic grass-fed beef to sustainably sourced seafood, while the bakery uses old world techniques for the freshest, cleanest breads and pastries.

The store also includes an Heirloom Juice Bar, complete with crafted juices, smoothies and coffee. For meals on the go, its extensive prepared food department boasts an organic salad bar, a fresh hot bar and ready-to-go packaged meals.

For local residents who want the convenience of their groceries delivered, the store will have online grocery delivery powered by Instacart. With one click, shoppers will be able to place a grocery order online to be delivered to either home or office.

And, to bring healthy food to everyone at an affordable price, more savings are available through the store’s Healthy Rewards loyalty program and weekly email flyers.

The Earth Fare Wesley Chapel location is hosting a grand opening celebration on Feb. 20 at 6:45 a.m., with a ribbon cutting ceremony and mystery gift card giveaway to the first 500 people in line, as well as demos, special deals and fun for the whole family the entire week.

Learn more at Earthfare.com/wesleychapel, and follow along with them on social media Facebook.com/earthfarewesleychapel for grand opening updates and events. Earth Fare’s address is 25535 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz.

Cardel Homes Expands at Bexley

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New models and large homesites
Choosing the right home and community are two of the biggest decisions you’ll make when buying a new home. Not only do you want you a community that gives your family plenty of ways to enjoy a wide range of activities and amenities, you’ll also want a builder whose floorplans and home features meet your family’s needs and exceeds your quality expectations. You’ll find this perfect combination with a new home built by Cardel Homes in Bexley.

This master-planned community developed by Newland Communities in

Land O’ Lakes is located north of State Road 54 at the Suncoast Parkway — a prime location that is convenient to many areas of Tampa Bay. Bexley is known for its unique amenities, excellent schools and preserved wilderness with 13 miles of planned hiking and biking trails.

Cardel Homes is one of several builders in Bexley, and has been in the community since it opened in the Fall of 2016.

“We have been one of Bexley’s most successful builders, selling all but our model home during its first phase, and recently moving to Bexley’s second phase with two new models,” said Brian Phillips, Vice President of sales and marketing at Cardel Homes.

Cardel Homes is one of Bexley’s premium builders and offers buyers some of the community’s largest homesites, many with pristine conservation views. Its homes are built on 70-foot lots, with sizes ranging from 2,507 to 3,939 square feet, and prices beginning in the $390,000s.

“Our homes offer, as standard, many exclusive features that other builders sell as upgrades,” said Phillips. “This means dollar for dollar, you get more with Cardel Homes because we put the most popular features that buyers want in the base price of our homes.”

“We give our buyers many selections to choose from, including 11 different styles of cabinets, 20 flooring options and 12 countertop choices,” said Jeffrey Lorenzo, who heads up Cardel’s sales at Bexley. “Our buyers love that they have so many choices in the base pricing, which means they typically spend less at the design center than they would with other builders.”

Customers also appreciate Cardel’s flexibility and ability to make changes.“I listen closely to what my buyers want and work closely with them all the way through the buying process,” said Lorenzo. “Because we are flexible, we are able to make changes that many national builders are not able to do.”

Another unique feature that Cardel offers is its large selection of one-story floorplans.“Families of all ages prefer living in a one-story home,” said Phillips, who adds that 90 percent of the homes Cardel sells are one-story floor plans.  “We have refined our one-story plans to meet the demands and desires of families of all sizes —couples with school-aged children, empty nesters wanting a beautiful home to entertain, and retirees looking to build their dream home to spend their retirement years.”

One of Cardel’s models at Bexley is the Henley, a new floorplan the company designed for families who love to entertain and want very open living spaces.

“The Henley offers our biggest great room and biggest bonus room,” said Phillips. “At almost 4,000 square feet, it’s a lot of house for the money, and one of the best values we offer.”

The Henley model features five bedrooms and four bathrooms with a 26 x 23 great room and 20.4 x 28 great room. Cardel’s other model home, the Savannah, is a versatile four-bedroom, three-bathroom home with 3,308 square feet. Both homes have three-car garages.

Cardel’s phase one Bexley model home is currently for sale fully-furnished at the reduced price of $749,990. “This home has over $200,000 in upgrades, and is a tremendous value for a family wanting to move now,” said Phillips.

Visit Cardel Homes at Bexley, Mondays through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

Every Cardel home comes with these standard features:
– Granite or quartz countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms
– Kitchen island countertop that extends 18 inches to accommodate seating
– 42-inch, level-3 maple cabinetry with crown molding and brushed nickel hardware
– Whirlpool appliance package, including a French door refrigerator
– Tankless hot water heater
– Four, 16-foot panel glass doors to a covered lanai that collapse into each other and push all the way back to the wall
– Premium windows that open easily from the inside for cleaning
– 4-inch baseboards throughout
– Closets with swing doors
– Epoxy garage floor coating

Published December 26, 2018