This week, from August 29-September 6, over 50 Tampa Bay restaurants are showcasing their menu during “Dine Tampa Bay” week, a week to celebrate the many great restaurants the city has to offer. Participating restaurants are offering $25, $30, or $35 three-course menus including an appetizer, entree, and dessert.

A wide variety of restaurants are participating, including the latest hot spots, national chains, and all fares including Asian, Spanish, French, Italian, tapas and sushi.  For a listing of participating restaurants and a map to each location, visit the Dine Tampa Bay website.

Participating restaurants nearest to Wesley Chapel include:

Dempsey’s Steak House

Dempsey’s Steak House offers quintessential dining in a cozy environment. Guests can choose prime beef in a variety of cuts, plus family-style side dishes, tableside Caesar salad, and delectable desserts from the resort’s bakery. Located in the Saddlebrook Resort.

GrillSmith

GrillSmith is a friendly, affordable neighborhood restaurant serving fresh fire-grilled food with an extensive selection of beer, wine, cocktails in a fun, contemporary, and unpretentious atmosphere. You’ll enjoy fresh fish, grilled steaks, chicken and burgers. Try GrillSmith for lunch, dinner or at the bar for Happy hour.

Urban Culinary Cuisine Cafe

The locally owned Urban Culinary Café offers choices for those who crave southern cuisine and those who savor more international flavors, for fans of out-of-the-way spots as well as proponents of small but stylish, upscale cafes, for those who sway to the sounds of live smooth jazz and those tap their feet to live R&B music. This Greenwich Village New York-styled cafe focuses on Upscale African American Cuisine.

Be sure to check out the restaurants nearest your future home this week! To keep updated on Tampa area events, sign up for our elist.

Homes by WestBay is building their Siesta Key floorplan, which offers the following features:

• Versatile floorplan with 5 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths and 3,476 square feet
• Expansive windows in the rear bring the outdoors inside
• Dramatic Grand Room with soaring 20 foot ceiling
• Gourmet Ktchen with island, large counter-bar, and walk-in pantry
• Owner’s Retreat and a second master suite downstairs
• Formal Living and Dining Rooms for elegant entertaining
• Children’s Retreat and two additional bedrooms upstairs
• Design can be expanded to 7 bedrooms
• Courtyard entry 3-car garage

At Seven Oaks, Homes by WestBay builds single-family homes in the Watermark Neighborhood. This neighborhood features the largest home sites that are available at Seven Oaks, and nearly all are surrounded by heavily wooded conservation. Within the Watermark neighborhood, you’ll find a large neighborhood park featuring a playground and room to run around on the grass play area.

Homes by WestBay offers several floorplans in Seven Oaks, ranging from 2,822-4,000 square feet. Home prices begin in the mid $300s, including a standard homesite.

After decades of building homes in the Tampa Bay area, the Homes by WestBay team presents new homes created for today’s lifestyles. Whether you work from home, live with extended family, pursue your artistic talents, or entertain your many friends, you will find design options that fit your needs. Explore unique and efficient designs and visually exciting homes of enduring value—at prices that may surprise you!

To keep updated on the model Grand Opening information, sign up for our elist.

D.R. Horton is a national home builder that provides unique and quality homes. Enjoy our brief video describing the benefits of living in the Seven Oaks community and D.R. Horton homes.

If the video above does not work, click here to watch the video on YouTube.

Feel free to ask us any questions or leave us your thoughts. We’d love to share them with our audience. We also welcome you to make an appointment to see the Seven Oaks community in person.

• 4 bedrooms
• 3.5 baths
• 4,420 square feet
• 3-car garage
• media room
• game room with covered balcony
• second-floor jack and jill bath
• great room with large stone fireplace
• large covered lanai with outdoor kitchen

In the Danielle model, you won’t want to miss the spectacular dining room, with an expansive ceiling that rises to the top of the second story. You will be impressed by the rich finishes chosen by the decorator–all the custom cabinets and storage areas are stained dark wood and in the great room and the study, and the decorator chose the feature of spectacular dark stained beams on ceiling. And the selected colors suit a wide variety of tastes–countertops are a smooth beige and brown granite, and interiors are done in a combination of cool blue-greens and some golds with white painted crown moldings. Upstairs you’ll find a beautiful guest bedroom and bath that has a little hideaway area–just room enough for a comfy chaise or a great play area for the kids.

The model is $503,000 with the Mediterranean elevation, and two other elevations are offered at $479,000 and $492,000.

If you’d like a chance to see the new Danielle model, make an appointment today.

As one of our premier builders, Mercedes offers both innovative and energy efficient homes that are suited to the buyers’ wants and needs. Mercedes offers homes that focus on happiness, comfort and self-expression. Mercedes Homes has won multiples awards and achievements based on construction, architecture, interior design and attention to detail.

The Watermark neighborhood offers 76 home sites on the eastern edge of Seven Oaks and features builders of custom and semi-custom single-family homes. See the luxurious appeal of a Mercedes home for yourself by making an appointment to visit the Seven Oaks community.

While a complete list of upcoming events can be found on the website, here are some of the most popular upcoming events for kids and families:

Wee Folk Series for ages 3-5

Stone Soup

• Ferguson Hall
• October 10,2010
• Tickets start at $8.50

What does a soup made of stones need to be delicious and nourishing? A little help from all the people of the village, that’s what! If each villager contributes just a few tasty items to the soup, it can be enjoyed by all. Stone Soup teaches that even in the most challenging times, working together in the spirit of cooperation will always produce a positive outcome.

Kid Time Series for ages 5-11

Pigeon Party

• Ferguson Hall
• October 17, 2010
• Tickets start at $9.50

Join Pigeon and friends and get ready to party! Meet the friendly hotdog man, Pigeon’s new friend Duckie, and the lovable Knuffle Bunny! Can you stop Pigeon from driving the bus? Will he share the hot dog? And after all that, it’s time for bed. The Bus Driver wants Pigeon to go to bed; all his friends want him to go to bed; but the question is – will you let him stay up late?

Santa’s Holiday Revue

• Ferguson Hall
• December 5, 2010
• Tickets start at $9.50

Santa’s Holiday Revue is a fast-paced, rollicking musical that takes a joyous ’round-the-world tour of the dances, songs, and stories from Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and many more. You’ll sing, clap, and tap along while learning new and old traditions that instill the magic of the season. This wonderful jubilee creates a heart-warming experience that celebrates the true spirit of cultural diversity.

For the whole family

The Sound of Music

• Carol Morsani Hall
• August 20-22, 2010
• Tickets start at $43.50

The classic musical will warm your hearts as Maria, a “nun in training,” is sent to act as governess to the seven children of widowed Austrian aristocrat, Captain von Trapp, and wins the hearts of the seven children and their father. Hear the cast sing your favorite songs like “Do Re Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “The Sound of Music.”

For the Friday, August 20 performance at 8 p.m. (today!), receive a free child’s ticket (12 and under) when you purchase a regularly priced adult ticket.  There will also family-friendly activities prior to the performance on August 20.

Dreamgirls

• Carol Morsani Hall
• November 16-21,2010
• Tickets start at $38.50

Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, Dreamgirls tells the story of an up-and-coming, 1960s singing girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. Dreamgirls features the unforgettable hits “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only” and “Listen.”

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

• Carol Morsani Hall
• November 30-December 5, 2010
• Tickets start at $43.50

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of two buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and finding their perfect mates in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas promises a merry and bright theatrical experience for the whole family!

To keep updated about events around the WaterGrass and Seven Oaks Communities, sign up for our elist!

WaterGrass: A Place to Call Home

Excitement is building as Standard Pacific Homes puts the finishing touches on their beautiful Brookland model.  The model is located in the brand new Glenbrook neighborhood at WaterGrass in Wesley Chapel, FL.  The model will give you a perfect glimpse into the homes Standard Pacific has built since 1989. More than 10,000 families in the Tampa Bay area have come to know their attention to detail, design and customer service. Now you can, too!

A few of the many amenities and features include:

• 2,566 square feet
• Granite countertops
• Spacious yard
• Stainless steel appliances
• Hardwood floors
• Kitchen wide open to extended great room
• Oversized bonus room
• Walk in shower in master bathroom
• All Standards Pacific Homes are Energy Star certified

Be the first to view the decorated model during the upcoming Grand Opening on August 21^st by signing up on our appointment page.

As the green movement continues to grow more and more popular, confusion within the real estate marketplace has continued to grow due to unclear definitions of what makes a home “green.”

The National Association of Home Builders lists guidelines for homeowners, which explain that “a green home pays attention to energy efficiency, water resource conservation, the use of sustainable or recycled products, and measures to protect indoor air quality.”

For homeowners in Crown Community Developments looking to join the green movement, being environmentally conscious is the first step. Then by integrating these products, homeowners can give their homes an affordable, eco-friendly twist.

1. Low-flush toilets

2. Energy Star approved windows and appliances such as light bulbs, dishwashers, and washing machines

3. FSC/NFC sustainable woods in floors, countertops, and cabinets. Bamboo is an excellent choice as it is the fastest growing, most renewable wood.

4. Tankless water heater. The water is heated just before it is used which requires less energy than storing hot water for a long period of time.

5. Low or zero VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, wallpapers, and primers.  These increase indoor air quality.

6. Low-flow faucets and shower heads

7. Radiant heat

8. Use of recycled or reclaimed materials. Use locally when possible.

9. Motor sensor lights. These are especially useful so you don’t always have to remember to turn the lights off when leaving a room.

Just remember that giving your home a green makeover doesn’t have to be expensive. It is about making sustainable choices and adding eco-friendly alternatives into the workings of your home.

For more information from Crown Communities, sign up for our e-newsletter.

One Month Before Moving

• Schedule the mover
• Arrange for transportation of vehicles and pets
• Submit change of address forms to the U.S. Postal Service
• Contact new schools and arrange for transfer of records
• Notify your doctor and get referrals for new doctors
• Give the landlord notice in writing, if necessary
• Compile a list of important new phone numbers
• Get recommendations for banks, lawyers, and religious institutions in your new area
• Donate unwanted items to charity or hold a garage sale
• Begin packing items not used often

Two Weeks Before Moving

• Arrange for changeover/disconnection of utilities
• Coordinate with newspaper companies to cancel old deliveries and start up a new subscription
• Measure your new home, and start to determine where you’ll place furniture
• Fill and transfer prescriptions
• Find out about your new state’s driver and auto licensing procedures, if applicable
• Inquire about changing your voter registration
• Keep packing!

One Week Before Moving

• Keep packing!
• Inform friends and relatives of your new address and phone number
• Get cleaning supplies ready
• Confirm arrangements with moving and storage companies, as well as auto and pet transportation companies
• Transfer bank accounts, if necessary
• Pack items to be carried in the car
• Pack yard and shed items. Don’t forget to drain fuel and oil from lawnmowers and power equipment and dispose of all other flammable items
• Drain water from garden hoses

One Day Before Moving

• Clean refrigerator and defrost the freezer
• Set aside fragile items and valuables for special handling
• Pack a box of basics for the next 24 hours. This might include medicine, toiletry items, all-purpose household cleaners, food and water.
• Finish packing!

Moving Day

• Take movers for a last-minute walk through and identify items that require special handling
• Double-check to make sure windows are closed, closets are empty, lights are out, and doors are locked
• Leave keys and garage door openers for new owners or tenants
• Supervise placement of boxes and furniture at your new home in WaterGrass
• Make sure utilities and phones are working at your new home
• Let family and friends know you’ve arrived safely
• Begin unpacking

Keep these tips in mind for an easy, stress-free transition into your new home.

For more information, sign up for our e-newsletter or make an appointment today.

And the learning doesn’t stop when school ends. This summer students have participated in the Summer Reading Challenge, an innovative program to keep kids involved with their education over the summer. Students are challenged to “Read for the World Record,” logging the time they spend reading. Even if they don’t break the world record, if they bring in a log of their minutes when school begins, they qualify for a fun Back-To-School Celebration.

It’s this kind of program that helps the Weightman Wildcats be excited about learning. Students also have the opportunity to participate in math competitions, speech contests, summer writing camp, and young readers programs. Also, students are rewarded with “Student and Citizen of the Month” awards and “Student of the Year” at the end of the year.

Thomas E. Weightman Middle School is a school where parents are actively involved. During the 2009/2010 school year, the school was awarded the Golden School Award by the Florida Department of Education. The award recognizes schools with exemplary volunteer programs, and requires that 80% of the staff are trained in volunteerism. A designated person acts as the School Volunteer Coordinator, and volunteers log hours that equal at least twice the number of students enrolled. The Golden School Award is a high honor, and shows that the community is involved with the school.

At Weightman, students can truly enjoy their school experience, no matter their interests. The Athletics department offers football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, and track. The school also offers chorus, band, and musicals. And the school regularly hosts events like family night, dances, book fairs, and other fun activities.

When you move into WaterGrass, your child can be a Weightman Wildcat when he or she is ready for middle school.

To learn more about WaterGrass, sign up for our e-list.

In addition to great homes, Standard Pacific Homes has a fantastic special offer now available. Earn a $6,000 allowance toward closing costs when you use Standard Pacific Mortgage to finance your new home! You don’t want to miss out on this exciting offer or on the home of your dreams!

The Tapestry II

• 3 Bedrooms,  2 Bathrooms
• From $168,900
• 1,722 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Dining Room, Great Room, Breakfast Nook, Lanai
• Vaulted Ceilings
• Optional Sun Room
• Optional Garden Bath
• Optional 5 Foot Extension
• Optional Bay Window at Breakfast Nook

The Langston

• 4 Bedrooms,  2 Bathrooms
• From $174,900
• 1,820 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Great Room, Dining Room, Breakfast Nook
• Optional Den
• Optional 4th Bedroom
• Optional Sitting Area in Master

The Brookland

• 3 Bedrooms,  2 Bathrooms
• From $179,900
• 1,948 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Dining Area, Great Room, Breakfast Nook
• Lanai or Optional Great Room Extension
• Optional Bonus Room
• Optional 4th Bedroom with bath
• Optional Garden Bath
• Optional Fireplace

The Mayfair

• 4 Bedrooms,  2 Bathrooms
• From $181,900
• 2,083 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Living and Dining Room, Family Room, Breakfast Nook, Lanai
• Vaulted Ceilings
• Optional Den in lieu of 4th Bedroom
• Optional Garden Bath
• Optional Window Seat at Breakfast Nook
• Optional Fireplace

The Shakespeare II

• 3 Bedrooms,  2.5 Bathrooms
• From $189,900
• 2,350 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, Breakfast Nook
• Loft or Optional 4th Bedroom
• Patio
• Optional Den
• Optional Pool Bath
• Optional Garden Bath
• Optional Bay Window at Breakfast Nook

The Castleberry

• 4-5 Bedrooms,  2.5-3.5 Bathrooms
• From $207,900
• 2,687-2,972 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Dining Room, Great Room, Breakfast Nook, Lanai
• Game Room/ Loft
• Optional Bonus Room
• Optional Den
• Optional 5th Bedroom with Bath
• Optional Flex Space

The Venetian

• 5 Bedrooms,  2.5 Bathrooms
• From $221,900
• 3,078 Sq. Ft.
• 2 Car Garage
• Living and Dining Room, Family Room, Breakfast Nook
• Game Room
• Lanai
• Optional Den
• Optional Garden Bath

WaterGrass is a Crown Community Development and features almost 1,000 acres of relaxed Florida living. Woods and wetlands as well as parks and playgrounds span 250 acres of this master-planned community.

Standard Pacific Homes will be building Energy Star qualified single family homes in two different neighborhoods at WaterGrass–Glenbrook and Peregrina. Each neighborhood will feature a fully furnished model. Glenbrook’s model is scheduled to open in August, and Peregrina’s model is scheduled for grand opening  at the end of the year. These single family homes will have 1,722 to 3,368 square feet of living area and range in price from the low $170’s to the upper $200’s. If you are interested in learning more about the above floor plans before the model opens, you can visit our sales office in Wesley Chapel at 30301 Hatz Way. You can also call 813-288-7788 and our online consultant would be happy to help you with your new home search.

Standard Pacific Homes has been building in the Tampa area since 1989 and prides itself on a tradition of quality and craftsmanship. Standard Pacific Homes is known for delivering an exceptional home buying experience and unmatched customer service.

Would you like to know more about Glenbrook at WaterGrass? Schedule an appointment to visit the community today.