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Land O'Lakes

Protect Your Family If Your Power Goes Out

August 28, 2019 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

With almost daily afternoon thunderstorms, and the busiest months of the hurricane season upon us, many local households are installing whole-house generators to keep their family comfortable, safe and secure if their power goes out.

“Families of all sizes and incomes are installing generators in their homes in case their power goes out,” said Miguel Silva, plumbing manager for Cornerstone Pros Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Electrical in Land O’ Lakes. “We are installing an average of 10 whole-house generators a month, and will install many more units during the storm season.”

Cornerstone installs Generac generators, the country’s largest and most-advanced manufacturer of backup generators that run on natural gas or liquid propane, and automatically activate when there is a power outage.

“Experience matters when it comes to generators, because in addition to the install, Cornerstone is qualified to service and maintain these systems, which can have a life span of 30 years, if properly maintained,” said Silva. “It’s no different than maintaining your vehicle — generators must be serviced to ensure they work properly, and to protect the homeowner’s investment.”

Because today’s technology is essential to most families, it is critical to have electricity to power these devises that families count on.

“While you obviously need power to keep your lights on and fridge running, you also need power to keep your cellphones, computers and home security cameras going,” said Silva. “Plus, electricity is especially important if a family member has medical issues that require equipment needing power to operate.”

A generator will prevent almost all of the problems associated with power loss, including spoiled food, extreme temperatures, sickening mold, and no running water if a home is on a well.

The American Red Cross recommends permanently installed backup generators, because they are a safer way to provide backup power to a home than a portable generator.

“Because all generators emit carbon dioxide, an odorless gas that can kill, proper installation and venting is imperative for all generators,” said Silva. “Our technicians are trained to specify the safest location for a generator.”

Because generators can be costly, Cornerstone Pros offers permanent and portable generators, and has low-interest financing in place to make monthly payments affordable.

“We want to encourage everyone who wants to protect their family’s health, comfort and safety to give us call,” said Silva. “We do everything possible to make a generator fit their budget and payment ability. Plus, we’re currently offering $150 off all generator installations.”

Modern generators are compact, quiet and able to power some or all of a home’s electrical appliances, all at the same time.

“Many people think of backup generators as giant, noisy units that can be heard all around the neighborhood. This is no longer the case,” said Silva, who adds that Cornerstone Pros pulls all the permits needed to install a generator.

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

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

Call Cornerstone Pros with your generator questions and to request a quote at (813) 990-0561.

Published August 28, 2019

Optimum Plumbing’s Personal Approach to Plumbing

August 28, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

By William Jacko

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

When people think of an American success story, they may very well be thinking of Vladimir Breton and Optimum Plumbing.

After earning a civil engineering degree in his native Dominican Republic, Breton immigrated to the United States and took a job as a plumber’s assistant in New York.  He did not speak English, but he had a plan  — to one day own his own business.

Breton eventually moved to Florida to fulfill his dream. Starting with nothing, in just five years he proceeded to build a successful plumbing business. It was 2012 when Breton founded Optimum Plumbing in Land O’ Lakes with just one truck, and today the business has grown to five trucks servicing customers throughout Tampa Bay.

Services include new plumbing fixtures, leak detection, inspections, gas and waterline repair, re-piping, sewer line video inspections, repair and installation of garbage disposals, tubs, sinks, and water closets and whole-house water filters.

“We are also a licensed general contractor,” Breton said.  “We wanted to offer more than just plumbing, and are now doing kitchen and bathroom renovation locally, and hotel and apartment complex renovation everywhere in Florida.”

Breton strongly believes in soliciting feedback from his customers to improve service.

“We always follow up with the customer,” he said.  “We call the next day to make sure everything is OK, to ask, ‘How was the service?  How was the technician?’  As soon as we close the call, we send a thank you email and send a link and to give us a review.”

Optimum Plumbing has earned more than its share of recognition. In 2013, the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund awarded it Startup of the Year.  In 2016, it won the Pasco Economic Development Council Service and Distribution Industry of the Year Category 1 Award.  The Better Business Bureau has rated it A+ for three consecutive years, and Angie’s List has awarded it Super Service in 2015, 2016 and 2017.

Breton appreciates the importance of community and is active in the Central Pasco, Upper Tampa Bay, and North Tampa Bay chambers of commerce.

“My wife and I have become part of the community,” he said.  “Wherever we go, people know us.  The business has been a way to meet people and to support community projects.”

Family is very important to Breton, and not surprisingly, several family members are involved in the business, including his wife as office manager, his sister-in-law as marketing director and even his 20-year-old college-student daughter, who works part- time in dispatching.”

Being licensed, bonded and insured, Optimum Plumbing offers 24-hour emergency service for plumbing, drain service and water heaters, and provide warranties on all of their work.

“We stand by our work, everything that we do, no matter what it is, from a job as simple as a garbage disposal to a sewer line cleaning,” Breton said.

The next time you need a plumber, call Optimum Plumbing at (813) 391-9287, or visit OptimumPlumbingllc.com.

ICI Homes Ready For The Parade at Asturia and Bexley

March 9, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Just in time for the 2018 Parade of Homes, ICI Homes has two beautifully furnished models and four move-in-ready homes for tour in Bexley and Asturia, two of Pasco County’s most prestigious communities along the in-demand State Road 54 corridor in Land O’ Lakes and Odessa.

ICI Homes has been building in Bexley since the community opened in the fall of 2016. It addition to its beautifully decorated, two-story Brooke Parade model that features five bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths, the one-story Pamela is also available to tour as a move-in-ready home with four bedrooms and three baths.

Over in Asturia, ICI Homes has a brand new Parade model, the Serena, which just opened to January to rave reviews from prospective homebuyers and Realtors.

“Between our public grand opening, and an exceptionally well-attended Realtor event a few days before, we couldn’t be more pleased with the large number of people who came out for the Serena’s opening weekend,” said Ron Ferguson, division manager of ICI Home’s West Florida Division.

“People love the Serena’s grand foyer that pulls you through the house with its 12-foot ceilings and open floor plan that sweeps you from the front of the house to the back,” said Ferguson.

“The Serena feels so much larger than a 2,200-square-foot house. Its large kitchen and great room gracefully flow into a covered lanai that stretches along the back of the home. This home never feels crowded, whether you’re relaxing with family or entertaining friends.”

Easily Customized Homes

Many families are looking for premium construction and high-end finishes in a smaller home, Ferguson adds, which is why the Serena works so well as a starter home for young professionals, for families with school-aged children and empty-nesters looking to downsize.

“People want well-designed homes with quality construction and workmanship that can be easily customized, built on conservation home sites in a community that provides an active lifestyle and great location. ICI Homes is that kind of builder, and Asturia and Bexley are those kind of communities,” said Ferguson.

ICI offers two home series in Asturia, built on 55-foot and 65-foot lots in the community’s heavily wooded second phase that opened in late 2017. “These home sites are some of the most beautiful conservation and water lots in all of Pasco County,” said Ferguson.

In addition to the Serena model, ICI Homes has three move-in ready homes in Asturia. A Serena and a two-story Santa Maria floor plans will be completed in the next few weeks, and in April, a one-story, 2,500-square-foot Costa Mesa will be ready. Homes range from 1,789 to 3,196 square feet, and base prices go from $288,900 to $419,900.

At Bexley, the 3,089-square-foot Pamela is also ready now for quick move in. This four-bedroom, three-bath home, three-car garage is $549,030. It features a 12-foot-high foyer that offers the unique option of walking into a flex space/study, the kitchen and gathering area, or straight into the private owner’s suite. A gourmet kitchen is just steps away from the large gathering and dining rooms, both of which open to a large covered lanai.

About ICI Homes

ICI Homes sets itself apart from other builders with its unusual ability to make custom changes without sacrificing affordability.

“We believe in a hands-on approach with all of our new homebuyers, offering custom changes by experienced design professionals that help make decisions for the homebuyer easier and affordable,” said Ferguson.

ICI is one of Florida’s most premier builders, and for many years has been ranked in the Top 100 Builders in the nation by Builder Magazine. It offers a wide variety of architectural styles and floor plans to match its buyers’ lifestyles and price ranges. From spacious, affordable homes to one-of-a-kind mansions, each home reflects the benchmark quality and affordable customization for which the company is known.

Established in 1980 and headquartered in Daytona Beach, ICI Homes is the recipient of several prestigious awards for design and innovation, and has long enjoyed local, regional and national professional recognition.

The Asturia sales center for ICI Homes is at 15134 Aviles Parkway in Odessa, (813) 359-0264. At Bexley, the sales center is at 16754 Courtyard Loop in Land O’ Lakes, (813) 530-9069.

 

Published February 28, 2018

ICI Homes Opens New Model In Asturia

February 5, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Here’s a great way to win a $500 gift card and tour a brand new model home.

Come out to Asturia this weekend for the grand opening of its latest model — the four-bedroom, three-bath Serena built by ICI Homes, the community’s newest builder.

The grand opening celebration of the Serena model is Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. (Jan. 27 and Jan 28), at 15134 Aviles Parkway. Asturia is located in Odessa on State Road 54, just west of the Suncoast Parkway.

“We are excited to be building in Asturia. Its location in the heart of Pasco is ideal for both first-time homebuyers and those moving up to a larger home,” said Ron Ferguson, division manager of ICI Home’s West Florida Division.

ICI offers two series in Asturia — seven distinct plans on 55-foot lots that begin at $288,900 and start at 1,789 square feet, and six larger homes on 65-foot lots that begin at $377,900 and start at 2,402 square feet. Both home series are being built in Asturia’s heavily wooded second phase that recently opened.

“These home sites are some of the most beautiful conservation and water lots in all of Pasco County,” said Ferguson. “We are very pleased to offer these gorgeous home sites to families looking for both smaller homes and those moving up to larger, more expensive models.”

The new Serena model home is one of ICI’s best-selling plans. This one-story home features a large gathering room with views out to a covered lanai. A spacious gourmet kitchen and dining area are perfect for spending quality time with family and for entertaining guests. The large owner’s suite has a master bath that leads into a large, double-entry walk-in closet. Two bedrooms at the front of the home share a bath, plus a separate guest bedroom and bath all provide living spaces away from the main living areas.

In addition to this furnished model, ICI Homes is building three showcase homes that will be move-in ready within the next few months. A Serena will be completed in the next few weeks, a two-story Santa Maria in late February and a one-story, 2,500-square-foot Costa Mesa in late March.

ICI Home also builds home in Bexley, another master-planned community located close-by in Land O’ Lakes.

“We’ve been in Bexley since its inception, and our homes there are larger with a minimum 3,000 square feet,” said Ferguson.

“Because we do not offer smaller homes in Bexley, we are pleased to now be able to refer families who want the quality of an ICI home in a smaller floor plan to Asturia.”

ICI Homes does have one move-in home that will soon be ready in Bexley, the Pamela. At 3,089 square feet, the four-bedroom, three-bath, three-car garage home is one of ICI Homes’ newest floor plans. It features a 12-foot-high foyer that offers the unique option of walking into a flex space/study, the kitchen and gathering area, or straight into the private owners suite. A gourmet kitchen is just steps away from the large gathering and dining rooms, both of which open to a large covered lanai.

ICI Homes sets itself apart from other builders with its unusual ability to make custom changes without sacrificing affordability.

“We believe in a hands-on approach with all of our new homebuyers, offering custom changes by experienced design professionals that help make decisions for the homebuyer easier and affordable,” said Ferguson.

ICI is one of Florida’s most premier builders and for many years has been ranked in the Top 100 Builders in the nation by Builder Magazine.

Always on the cutting edge of Florida new-home design and technology, ICI Homes takes pride in offering a wide variety of architectural styles and floor plans to match its buyers’ lifestyles and price range. From spacious, affordable homes to one-of-a-kind mansions, each home reflects the benchmark quality and affordable customization for which the company is known.

Established in 1980 and headquartered in Daytona Beach, ICI Homes is the recipient of countless prestigious awards for design and innovation, and has long enjoyed local, regional and national acclaim.

New Division Manager 

Ron Ferguson is the new West Florida division manager for ICI Homes. He oversees the company’s communities in the Tampa region, including Asturia and Bexley in Pasco County.
Ferguson joins ICI Homes after 12 years with David Weekley Homes, where he served as project manager in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area for the past five years. He has more than 18 years experience in construction management and has earned high customer satisfaction results throughout his career.

Ferguson supports several charitable community organizations, including Paint Your Heart Out Tampa Bay and Metropolitan Ministries. He earned a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Illinois State University.
Published on January 24, 2018.

Asturia is a Neighborhood — Not Another Sprawling Community

February 5, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Caring father helping son put on bicycle helmet – Outdoors

Asturia’s uniquely small size makes it stand out among other new home developments along the in-demand State Road 54 corridor in Odessa and Land O’ Lakes.

While nearby planned communities have between 3,000 to over 5,000 homes in their master plan, and are looking at several years of construction, Asturia is building just 550 homes and will complete construction in just a few years.

“Asturia feels more like a neighborhood than a sprawling community because our nature trails, pocket parks, first-class amenities and community events encourage you to get to know your neighbors,” said Lane Gardner, managing director for Hines, Asturia’s developer.

“And, because Asturia offers a variety of lifestyles, it is perfect for families with school-aged children looking for larger homes, and young families buying their first home.”

Lane continues that Asturia also attracts empty-nesters wanting to downsize to a new home with all the latest upgrades. “These folks chose Asturia because we are a friendly, walkable community that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle,” he said.

Hines, which is based in Jacksonville, professionally manages the design and development of Asturia’s master plan, including overseeing residential neighborhoods, community amenities, parks and primary infrastructure. It also is responsible for community branding, marketing and the sale of multifamily and commercial parcels.

It’s this commitment to the integration of natural resources, high-quality design standards and thoughtful master planning that has earned Asturia several prestigious regional design and planning awards.

It’s been just two years since Asturia began selling homes, and already the development has moved into its second phase.

Phase Two opened in December and is selling 157 large home sites, most with conservation and water views, and all providing privacy and peaceful, quiet surroundings. A boardwalk connects the two neighborhoods within Phase Two, and will intersect with Asturia’s multi-use pathway that meanders for miles through residential areas, parks, playgrounds and the Amenity Center.

Three Premier Builders

Ashton Woods, David Weekley Homes and ICI Homes, some of the best builders in the country, are Asturia’s exclusive builders.

ICI Homes is the community’s newest builder and is celebrating the grand opening of its Serena Model this weekend, Jan. 27 and Jan. 28. Visitors can enjoy refreshments and can enter a $500 gift card raffle.

Ashton Woods and David Weekley Homes, Asturia’s builders since the community opened, both boast of successful sales during Phase One.

“We’ve successfully sold out of the Garden Series homes, and only one Cottage Home remains available in Phase One,” said Jennifer Cole, senior marketing director of David Weekley Homes.

And Kristin Wilson, sales and marketing manager for Ashton Wood, reports, “We’ve sold over 100 homes in Asturia and are very pleased with the keen interest in this community.”

“Our buyers are fortunate that they can choose from such premier builders like ICI Homes, David Weekley Homes and Ashton Woods to build the home of their dreams in Asturia,” said Gardner.

Award Winning Amenity Center

Asturia’s distinctive, 5,800-square-foot Amenity Center and Clubhouse earned the prestigious Silver Aurora Award for the Best Recreational Facility at the 2017 Southeast Building Conference.

This contemporary-design Amenity Center includes a fully equipped, modern clubhouse; covered outdoor dining areas; a luxurious, beach-entry, resort-style swimming pool; and an expansive event lawn for spontaneous outdoor games, such as Gaga Ball, volleyball and soccer.

For kids, there is a Kompan dome, swings, slide and spinners in the playground area that are designed to promote imaginative play and build strong bodies.

Asturia has wide, meadow-like spaces, lovely ponds, thick stands of cypress and hardwood trees, and large tracts of scenic wetlands. It is an exceptionally kid-friendly and family oriented community surrounded by miles of multi-use trails that are interspersed with playgrounds, dog parks and pocket parks.

Make Asturia your new home by visiting its models, registering at the community’s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 227-4148.

Published on January 24, 2018.

Caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients don’t have to go it alone

November 29, 2017 By B.C. Manion

When someone learns that a loved one is afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease, it can seem overwhelming.

Phyllis Bross, a retired attorney from Land O’ Lakes, understands the feeling. Her mother and aunt were both Alzheimer’s patients, and she now runs the Alzheimer’s Association/Caregiver Support Group that meets monthly at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway.

Based on her own experiences, Bross said, generally, when a caregiver learns about the diagnosis, he or she feels lost.

Phyllis Bross, a retired attorney, runs a monthly Alzheimer’s Association support group at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library. It’s a monumental challenge for caregivers, she said. In short, she recommends: ‘Try to get as much information as you can. Try to get as much support as you can. Try to get things rolling.’ (B.C. Manion)

“You’re worried about your future finances, and providing medication, and other kinds of support and help for your loved one.

“You know you don’t have a medical background, so you’re wondering: Should someone else be taking care of him or her? Or, should I do it because of the familiarity and the love for the person?” Bross said.

Because they don’t know what to do, most people begin sorting things out by turning to a support group for help.

“I think that’s a great place to start,” said Bross, who, in addition to her legal experience, has an undergraduate degree in social work. There are all kinds of support groups available, offered by the Alzheimer’s Association and other groups, she added.

There are definite steps that caregivers can take to help themselves, Bross added.

While the loved one is competent, it’s important to ask: “Do you believe you can trust me … to take care of you, to take care of your money/the family money, to take care of your health, to make end-of-life decisions for you?” Bross said.

If the answer is yes, the next question would be: “Can we go to an attorney, an elder law attorney and discuss you’re possibly providing me with a durable power of attorney?” Bross said.

Taking that action will simplify later decisions that will need to be made, she said.

She also suggests organizing a family meeting, so you can find out their level of support and if they can help you make decisions.

It’s also important to start asking questions early, Bross said.

For instance, when visiting an elder law attorney, ask about the possibility of your loved one qualifying for Medicaid, in case the family ends up not being able to afford all of this care that’s going to be needed.

It’s also important to become aware of long-term care facilities that may become necessary at some point.

“Look at facilities. Even if you’ve promised your loved one you won’t put them in a facility, you don’t really know how sick they’re going to get,” Bross said.

Sometimes, no matter how much a caregiver wants to keep his or her loved one at home, it becomes impossible.

In short, Bross recommends: “Try to get as much information as you can. Try to get as much support as you can. Try to get things rolling.”

Beyond needing help with feeding, bathing and other physical needs, Alzheimer’s patients sometimes become difficult to handle.

“Their temperament changes very often. They might become abusive,” Bross said.

She advises to prepare for “the worst-case scenario.”

Bross also recommends a book called, “The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss,” by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins.

“People in my Alzheimer’s care group call it their Bible,” she said.

It is important to provide support to caregivers, Bross said. In addition to the physical, medical and financial challenges they encounter, there’s an emotional toll, as well, Bross said. “It’s a terrible disease.”

It’s important to provide support to help caregivers through “their sadness and depression,” Bross said.

“It’s such a hard job,” she said.

Alzheimer’s disease
Memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, but those also can be symptoms of other health conditions. A medical diagnosis is necessary to pursue appropriate treatment and to rule out other possible, sometimes reversible, conditions.

People with Alzheimer’s may experience these types of symptoms:

Cognitive: mental decline, difficulty thinking and understanding, confusion in the evening hours, delusion, disorientation, forgetfulness, making things up, mental confusion, difficulty concentrating, inability to create new memories, inability to do simple math, or inability to recognize common things

Behavioral: aggression, agitation, difficulty with self-care, irritability, meaningless repetition of own words, personality changes, restlessness, lack of restraint, or wandering and getting lost

Mood: anger, apathy, general discontent, loneliness, or mood swings

Psychological: depression, hallucination, or paranoia

Other common symptoms: inability to combine muscle movements, jumbled speech, or loss of appetite

Source: Google fact sheet

Practical tips for caregivers:

  • Join a support group.
  • Attend summits and seminars to learn about financial resources and research studies.
  • Create a binder to keep track of medical information, financial information, legal information and questions.
  • Be aware there are all sorts of potential sources for funding and research, including federal, state, county, local, universities and nonprofits.
  • Ask family members how they would like to help and divvy up the tasks, accordingly. Someone may be willing to handle providing transportation, while another provides financial support. Someone else may be able to do practical chores, such as cooking, cleaning, yard work and so on.
  • Observe the patient’s status and record it in a journal — to help keep track of the patient’s changing condition.

Practical ways to help caregivers:
If you’d like to help a caregiver of someone afflicted by Alzheimer’s disease, here are some ways you can help:

  • Offer to give them a break by volunteering to watch over the patient, while the caregiver does shopping, goes to a hair appointment or does errands. (This may not be possible based on the patient’s condition or willingness to accept your care. If that won’t work, another option would be to provide a gift of paid-for respite care.)
  • Bring over dinner or provide gift certificates for meals.
  • Watch a movie at the caregiver’s house.
  • Take some nice photographs of the caregiver and their loved one, so the caregiver will have them later.
  • Provide emotional support, through a poem or a loving letter.
  • Step in to help in practical ways, such as yard work, house work or other chores.

Source: Phyllis Bross, facilitator of the monthly Alzheimer’s support group that meets at Land O’ Lakes Branch Library

 

Other sources of help include:

  • The Alzheimer’s Association: 24-hour hotline: (800) 272-3900; or visit ALZ.org
  • The Florida Department of Elder Affairs: (800) 963-5337; or visit ElderAffairs.state.fl.us

Published November 29, 2017

Not All Communities are Created Equal

September 28, 2017 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

It’s been such an exciting year at Connerton that visitors and residents continue to be amazed by “The Community of More.”

The year began with Connerton being named the 2017 Showcase Community for the Parade of Homes sponsored by the Tampa Bay Builders Association. The month-long Parade brought hundreds of people to the Land O’ Lakes community for the first time in April, and many became new homeowners, with more than 30 homes being sold during the Parade.

Also in April, a brand new, mortgage-free home was presented to David Roca, a deserving Army veteran and his family. The dedication of the Roca home was an emotional outpouring of community support by local residents, Connerton’s developer Hayman Woods, and Lennar Homes, which built the Roca home.

Then, on July 1, more than 8,000 people came to Connerton for an old-fashioned Independence Day celebration with music, games, food and fireworks. Many other special events are held throughout the year for Connerton residents, which bring neighbors together to mingle and get to know each other in a friendly neighborhood setting.

 Discover the Connerton Difference

When Connerton visitors stop at the community’s beautiful clubhouse, they often ask, “Why does Connerton feel so different than other communities?” The answer is that Connerton is different because it is one of only three communities in Florida that has been formally recognized as a “New Town.”

Connerton earned its “New Town” designation because of its outstanding community planning and design, which reduces residents’ reliance on cars and promotes a more sociable, pedestrian culture. The mature trees, picturesque ponds and many conservation areas preserve the beauty of nature, and allow native foliage and wildlife to flourish.

As the town of Connerton grows, it is opening new neighborhoods and expanding its unique Town Center with its of mix of residential, retail, professional, commercial space and 20 acres set aside for a future government center. The Town Center will be the focal point of the community, connecting a hometown main street, open spaces, gathering places, and educational and recreational opportunities.

Everyone Loves A Winner

Connerton is an award-winning community. In May, it brought home trophies for Best Consumer Promotion for its Independence Day Celebration, and for Best Mobile Website, at the annual Award Presentation of the Sales and Marketing Council of the Tampa Bay Builders Association.

In July, Connerton won an award for Best Special Charity Event at the Southeast Builders Conference in Orlando. Numerous other awards have been presented to Connerton over the years, and are proudly displayed at Club Connerton, the resort-style clubhouse where the new Visitor Center is located.

Why Residents Chose Connerton

The diversity in ages and wide variety of interests are just two reasons why residents chose Connerton as their home.

At community gatherings, you’ll find people asking, “what brought you to Connerton?” Varied responses include the community’s connection to the outdoors, and its preservation of the natural beauty and pristine environment of the land.

Others love the “hometown American feel and the Norman Rockwell look about it.” The extended trails, bike paths and parks are favorites for many families, and pet lovers enjoy the dog park where even their four-legged family members can make friends.

It is interesting to note that 44 percent of new homeowners who purchased their home this year came from the Land O’ Lakes/Lutz area, 25 percent from Tampa, 7 percent from Wesley Chapel, 6 percent from West Pasco and 5 percent from other Florida counties. Another 13 percent are buyers from outside Florida, with the largest percentage of those coming from the northeast Atlantic area.

 Home Builders

Five quality builders offer beautiful floor plans and furnished models where homebuyers can choose their home site and style of home. Taylor Morrison, Homes by WestBay, M/I Homes and Lennar continue to build in The Arbors and Gardens villages. Most models are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

In September, Connerton is welcoming Inland Homes to their model lineup. Inland will be offering homes from 1,700 to 2,000 square feet priced in the mid $200,000. Watch for their grand opening invitation.

Connerton is located approximately six miles north of the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41. For more information, visit Connerton.com.

Published August 23, 2017

Opening day a hit

November 4, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Shoppers flock to Tampa Premium Outlets

Margie Hamman was one of the earliest birds to land at the Tampa Premium Outlets.

Almost too early.

Her 5:30 a.m. arrival at the fog-shrouded parking lot, off State Road 56, surprised one parking lot attendant who said she should come back later.

After being first in line at Coach, Margie Hamman of Homosassa makes her way through the crowd en route to Gap at the grand opening of Tampa Premium Outlets. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
After being first in line at Coach, Margie Hamman of Homosassa makes her way through the crowd en route to Gap at the grand opening of Tampa Premium Outlets.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

As she began driving off, a man “in a suit and tie” flagged her down and ushered her back to the parking lot, she said.

She was rewarded for early arrival when she came away with a bag full of coveted handbags and the bragging right of being the first customer inside the Coach store when the mall opened at 10 a.m.

She got a steal for her 10 designer purses, and then she moved on over to Gap.

“I’ll be making a lot of trips to my car,” said Hamman, who drove from Homosassa to her daughter’s home in Odessa the night before. “I’m doing my Christmas shopping.”

She was among thousands who thronged the walkways on Oct. 29, the opening day for the highly anticipated outlet mall developed by Simon Property Group.

Hamman expects to be back, again and again.

The Ellenton Premium Outlets (also a Simon mall) is no longer her go-to destination, especially when she has a daughter living so close to Tampa Premium Outlets.

Fountains shoot water into the air as the Market Hall food court towers over the Lagoon Court at the Tampa Premium Outlets.
Fountains shoot water into the air as the Market Hall food court towers over the Lagoon Court at the Tampa Premium Outlets.

Like Hamman, there are others who will forego outlet malls in Ellenton and Orlando to jingle cash registers in Pasco County instead.

The outlet mall will be an economic shot in the arm, Pasco County Commissioner Chairman Ted Schrader, said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“We know it’s going to be a very big success, building on this momentum,” he said. “We are so looking forward to shoppers spending so much time in Pasco, maybe looking around, staying and living here.”

About 800 people gained full and part-time jobs at the outlet mall, and local labor hired about 500 people to help build it.

The outlet mall adds cache to the Tampa Bay region and will help boost tourism, said Ed Caum, Pasco’s tourism manager.

Visitors to the area can be expected to spend their money in more than one county and at more than one venue, he said.

“It will have a regional influence,” said Caum. “People will fly in to Tampa International Airport. They may stay in Clearwater, but eat at Ulele (in Tampa), and come here to the mall.”

Foreign visitors, especially from Canada and Brazil, are frequent shoppers at the Orlando Outlet Mall. And, Caum said Pasco plans to focus some of its marketing on Central and South American countries including Venezuela, Argentina and Mexico.

With counties sharing in the tourism pool, Hillsborough County’s tourism agency, Visit Tampa Bay, will include materials on the Tampa Premium Outlets in its marketing packages at an upcoming trade show in London.

“Everything that’s in Pasco, we’re going to be working very closely with them,” said Kevin Wiatrowski, regional media relations manager for Visit Tampa Bay. “All of our materials have this built into it along with our regular stuff. It’s an impressive time to be here.”

Wesley Chapel resident Rita Faddoul came from Lebanon more than 20 years ago. She remembers when the community had “one store, one light.”

Now, she says relatives coming from Europe will enjoy something unique in her neighborhood.

“It’s better than the International Mall,” Faddoul said. “I want to stay until midnight.”

Cool vibe and good deals

When all of its stores have opened, the 441,000-square-foot mall, with its “Key West” décor, will boast more than 100 designer brand shops selling top-line merchandise at 25 percent to 65 percent discounts daily.

Many stores sweetened the bargains with larger discounts, coupons and giveaways during the mall’s opening weekend from Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.

Karen Jenkins, and her mother, Beth McDonald, sat on a bench studying a brochure and a map of the outlet mall.

“I’m really just looking to see what they have,” said Jenkins. “If I see something I like, I’ll buy it.”

Tampa Premium Outlets has some stores that shoppers won’t find at Ellenton, including Naturalizer and The Limited.
The duo registered with the Tampa outlet’s VIP Shopper, and got a few coupons including a discount on Ralph Lauren merchandise.

“We’re thrilled we’re not driving to Ellenton,” said Jenkins who lives in Land O’ Lakes. But, she added: “My husband’s not happy about this.”

Kaiya Davis and her son, Jamal McIntosh, had a quick hop to the mall, from their new home in Lutz.

Davis took the day off to check out the shops.

Stephen Yalof, chief executive officer of Premium OUtlets for Simon, talks about the opening of Tampa Premium Outlets, located on State Road 56, near Interstate 75.
Stephen Yalof, chief executive officer of Premium OUtlets for Simon, talks about the opening of Tampa Premium Outlets, located on State Road 56, near Interstate 75.

McIntosh is starting a job with the Florida Department of Transportation and soon could be working on highway projects to ease traffic woes at the interchange of Interstate 75 and State Road 56.

“Lots of new beginnings,” said Davis.

Besides a being new shopping venue, the new homeowner sees an added bonus from the mall.

“The price of property values are going to go up,” she said.

Another Lutz resident Karen Fortin, and her mother, Margaret Carreiro, left Columbia Sportswear, one of their favorite stores, carrying bags containing shoes and a fleece jacket.

The travel time to the shopping destination can’t be beat, they said.

“We’re right here, 2 minutes from home,” Fortin said.

Caralee and Charles Shapero had a longer trip, coming over from Clearwater. But, they might come back.

“We will see,” said Caralee Shapero. “It’s missing a Bath & Body Works, but it is closer. So far so good.”

They are Yankee Candle enthusiasts and were ready to snap up a deal – five candles for $50.

“We’ll be walking out with 10,” said Caralee Shapero.

Natalie Scheer and Blanca Jordan sat down on a bench with Disney Store Outlet bags at their feet. They rattled off stores they had been to and others they were ready to take on.

“We’re only halfway there,” said Scheer, who along with Jordan, works at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel.

They expected to spend two hours to three hours scouring the mall for bargains.

“We threw our bags in the car already,” said Jordan. “This is our second round. It’s wonderful. We don’t have to go all the way to Orlando.”

Jordan said she sometimes goes to Westfield Citrus Park. But, she added: “Outlets are much better. You get better deals.”

The women liked the setting, too.

Jordan held out her cellphone showing off a picture of the two framed in the background by the mall’s blue water lagoon and bridge.

“It looks like we’re on vacation,” said Scheer.

Published November 4, 2015

 

Citizens Academy connects the dots

April 8, 2015 By Kathy Steele

The class kicked off with a “show-and-tell” display of Pasco County’s firefighting and rescue vehicles in the parking lot outside of the county’s Emergency Operations Center. It ended with an up-close look inside the command center of the county’s 911 operations.

“It was fascinating,” said Nancy Menendez. The Land O’ Lakes resident expressed surprise that the 911 center wasn’t larger. Blinking red lights mounted at each cubicle signaled a call in progress.

Pasco firefighter Michael Tomlinson, right, explains the uses of fire suppression equipment to Port Richey resident Jeromy Harding and Land O’ Lakes resident Sandy Graves. Harding and Graves are students of the county’s Citizens Academy. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)
Pasco firefighter Michael Tomlinson, right, explains the uses of fire suppression equipment to Port Richey resident Jeromy Harding and Land O’ Lakes resident Sandy Graves. Harding and Graves are students of the county’s Citizens Academy.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)

Menendez noticed the even-keeled, calm tones of call operators and dispatchers as they answered nearly nonstop calls in rapid-fire succession.

She is one of about 20 students chosen from about 50 applicants to attend the county’s third Citizens Academy. The first academy was in 2014.

There are two semesters a year, in spring and fall. Anyone who lives or works in Pasco, and is 18 years of age or older, can qualify. Students in each semester come from all five of the county’s election districts.

The goal is to inform residents about local government as well as their roles as participants. The hope also is that students who come to the academy will want to be ambassadors, sign up for advisory boards or find other ways to volunteer.

“Most of the folks learn something,” said Randy TeBeest, assistant county administrator for public safety. “I’m betting they learn a lot. This really gives them an idea of where tax dollars go to and why and how we decide to spend those precious dollars.”

Menendez found herself in the academy after discovering the program on a random search through the government website.

“It really sounded interesting,” said Menendez who at age 59 is beginning to think about retirement.

“I’m not going to sit home and watch TV,” she said. “I’m going to get involved. I want to see what I want to do in my future life. I’ve been enjoying this. It’s an experience I’ve not expected.”

Each class focuses on a specific area of government such as constitutional officers or planning and development. Last week’s class was about public safety and included briefings on the departments of misdemeanor and probation, and emergency management. The Office of Tourism Development was on the agenda, too.

Organizers try to include an interactive element in each class, such as the 911center tour.

In March, the academy convened at the Dade City courthouse for a mock public hearing with students playing the roles of county commissioners and the residents who took sides on a proposed housing project.

New Port Richey resident Marilyn Shaw played a resident who opposed the development. “It’s so fun,” she said.

Though she has done public speaking before, the retired registered nurse said, “You find out what your skills are. I felt very honored (to be selected for the academy). I wanted to be more active in government and understand what department does what.”

Some students want to hone existing skills and knowledge.

Land O’ Lakes resident Sandy Graves is on the board member for the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. Her chamber connection was partly her motivation for signing up for the academy.

But she also said, “I think it’s important we all learn to work together. Local government is where it affects you most.”

She has a new awareness of the many levels of government.

“I didn’t know it was that complicated,” Graves said. “Bureaucracy tends to do that. There are so many times you don’t know who it is to call or what they do.”

Trilby resident Richard Riley is a retiree and an activist in the Dade City area.

“I feel it’s necessary to know what’s happening and how it’s happening in the county. This (program) is on-site, hands-on.”

The academy is meeting his expectations. “I’m learning who to contact, and who to thank,” he said. “We pay taxes for these people. It’s necessary to see how well things are running.”

Jeromy Harding, 24, owns an insurance business in Port Richey. He ran in the Republican primary for State House Representative, District 36, the seat vacated by Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano.

“I’d do it again,” Harding said. “I’m very active politically in west Pasco.”

The academy is a chance to learn more about the county commission, voting issues and the budget process, Harding said.

At an upcoming class, students will learn about how budgets are put together and participate in an exercise similar to the mock hearing in Dade City.

Learning the nuts and bolts of county government is the motivation for Julian Ford. The 39-year-old is an entrepreneur, spiritual leader and owner of a business in Dade City. He grew up in Pasco and lives in Lacoochee.

“I want to put myself in a position to make a more valuable contribution not just to me, but to my (community),” said Ford.

When the academy is over, Ford said he wants to be in a position to explain to other people how government works.

“It’s doing exactly what I want it to do. It’s connecting the dots, answering the why,” he said. Later on, he said, “I can be the why.”

Published April 8, 2015

Politicians talk local, but don’t spend local

November 13, 2014 By Michael Hinman

Ever wonder how much $324,000 can buy?

It could supply ribs and sides for 25 families at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que for an entire year.

It could feed a complete Thanksgiving dinner from Publix to nearly every person living in Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes.

Denny Esber got some local political work for Pasco County Commission candidates like Henry Wilson Jr., and Mike Moore, but said he could feel the pinch of hundreds of thousands of dollars leaving the county. (Michael Hinman/Staff Photo)
Denny Esber got some local political work for Pasco County Commission candidates like Henry Wilson Jr., and Mike Moore, but said he could feel the pinch of hundreds of thousands of dollars leaving the county. (Michael Hinman/Staff Photo)

It could hire 15 people for an entire year at $10 an hour, with enough money left over to add a part-timer at the same rate.

In three local political races that ended Nov. 4, six candidates spent $324,000 — to people and businesses outside of Pasco County. In fact, of the more than $455,000 these Pasco County Commission and state House candidates spent since Nov. 1, 2013, only 29 percent of it stayed local.

Beverly Ledbetter, who ran as a Democrat for Florida House District 38, had the worst local campaign spending, with less than 10 percent remaining in Pasco County. However, when it came to total dollars, new Pasco County commissioner Mike Moore sent the most money outside the county — nearly $109,000, or 66 percent of his expenditures.

“Our campaign bought local services when available, such as some printing supplies and materials,” Ledbetter told The Laker/Lutz News in an email. “I used a local Dade City printer for some work, and a local company for the T-shirts. Unfortunately, East Pasco — including Wesley Chapel — does not have any commercial mailing operation that I was aware of, and that comprises the bulk of my out-of-district purchases.”

Since the end of the primary, Ledbetter spent just $1,800 of the more than $28,000 she received locally, according to an analysis of campaign finance records by The Laker/Lutz News. She paid nearly $15,600 to Sonic Print in Tampa in the last reporting period alone, for what were described as mailers. Another $440 went to a company called Parkway Strategies in Tallahassee for what the campaign said was “strategic communications.”

Although his local spending was much better than Ledbetter’s, Danny Burgess — who eventually would win the House seat — was still behind all four county commission candidates tracked. He spent more than $35,000 locally, but sent $96,000 away.

Not having services available locally shows the need for such services to be developed, Ledbetter said. But there are still many services available locally which candidates looked outside of Pasco for, especially printing. And companies like Point to Point Printing in Land O’ Lakes feel it when money isn’t spent here.

“There are plenty of people here,” said Point to Point’s owner Denny Esber. He saw about $10,000 worth of work this election cycle from candidates like Moore and former county commissioner Henry Wilson Jr. But there was still more he and other business owners missed out on.

“With jobs like this, the money comes back and then I can re-spend that money in this community,” Esber said. “It just keeps going and going and going and going.”

A lot of money leaves the county for advertising and consulting. In the last two weeks of his campaign, Burgess spent $61,500. However, just $4,000 of that — less than 7 percent — stayed local. Instead, nearly $57,000 was paid to a pair of Jensen Beach companies for advertising.

In all, Burgess spent $81,500 with that company, or 63 percent of his total expenditures. That’s enough alone to create four full-time jobs at $10 an hour.

Ledbetter on the other hand spent $22,209 with Sonic Print, or 69 percent of her total expenditures, sending all that money to Tampa’s Carrollwood area.

But the commission races weren’t much different. Moore only kept 34 percent of his spending local, but his opponent — Erika Remsberg — didn’t do much better at 39 percent. Since the end of February, both candidates sent $115,000 out of the county, some $30,000 more than what they wanted taxpayers to pay them each year in salary as a commissioner.

“First, I was disappointed my local spending amount was so low,” Remsberg said in an email. “Must be because the Tarpon union printer I used was just over the border. Secondly, I think reporting the amounts donated is more important than the percentages. Given the vast difference in amounts donated to our contributions, I think percentages do not paint the picture as well as the dollar amount does.”

Twice in October, Moore spent more than $20,000, but less than 6 percent remained local. Instead, he spent $37,323 with Majority Strategies in Ponte Vedra for advertising, and nearly $3,000 with Allegra Marketing in Tampa for printing.

Even food preparation was not something Moore could find locally, spending $2,224 for food at a fundraiser supplied by Catering by the Family in Tampa.

Moore did not respond to a request for comment.

Published November 12, 2014

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08/15/2022 – Animal Services temporary closure

Pasco County Animal Services, 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O' Lakes, will close to the public on Aug. 15 through Aug. 17. The PCAS team members will be training on a new pet management software, to better serve customers. Offices will re-open for regular business hours on Aug. 18. … [Read More...] about 08/15/2022 – Animal Services temporary closure

08/16/2022 to 08/18/2022 – National Rarities buying event

Kiefer Fine Jewelers will host an exclusive buying event with National Rarities from Aug. 16 to Aug. 18, at both Kiefer locations: 37850 Meridian Ave., in Dade City (Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), and 24144 State Road 54 in Lutz (Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.). Top dollar is expected to be offered for fine jewelry, coins and currency, scrap gold and silver, fine art, diamonds, sterling silver, watches, and antique toys and advertising. This event serves those looking for a professional evaluation of their items in a convenient setting. Estate specialists will share information about the items and help the seller to consider options. Payment is on the spot should the customer decide to sell, plus a 20% bonus if taken as store credit. The event also will feature an Estate Jewelry Trunk Show, presenting one-of-a-kind pieces. For information, call Dade City store at 352-567-2378, or Lutz at … [Read More...] about 08/16/2022 to 08/18/2022 – National Rarities buying event

08/17/2022 – Bat seminar

The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will present a master gardener seminar on bats on Aug. 17 at 11 a.m. Topics will include why bats are threatened and misunderstood. Masks are recommended. Registration is required online at PascoLibraries.org. … [Read More...] about 08/17/2022 – Bat seminar

08/17/2022 – Guardian ad litem sessions

Anyone interested in volunteering for abused, neglected or abandoned children in the Pasco County foster care system can attend one of these upcoming sessions for the Guardian ad Litem program: • The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host a Volunteer Orientation on Aug. 17 at 1:30 p.m. Masks are encouraged. Register online at PascoLibraries.org. For information, call 813-788-6375. • The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host an Information Session on Aug. 18 at 1:30 p.m. For information, call 727-834-3493, ext. 2929, or visit HeroToAChild.org. … [Read More...] about 08/17/2022 – Guardian ad litem sessions

08/18/2022 – ZooTampa Story Time

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Story Time with ZooTampa: Senses in Nature” on Aug. 18 at 10 a.m., for ages 3 to 6, online. The program will use stories, action rhymes, songs and interactive activities to combine an animal experience with early literacy skills, to encourage reading readiness and social interaction. Register online through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. … [Read More...] about 08/18/2022 – ZooTampa Story Time

08/18/2022 – ZooTampa story time

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Story Time with ZooTampa: Senses in Nature” on Aug. 18 at 10 a.m., for ages 3 to 6, online. The program will use stories, action rhymes, songs and interactive activities to combine an animal experience with early literacy skills, to encourage reading readiness and social interaction. Register online through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. … [Read More...] about 08/18/2022 – ZooTampa story time

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