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The region’s first new hospital in more than 20 years, the Medical Center of Trinity, is scheduled to open in November of 2011. And it’s right here in our own backyard, located near the intersection of State Road 54 and Little Rd.

The 5-story hospital tower is Pasco’s first hospital to be built exclusively with all private rooms, 236 to be exact. More than 400 physicians and approximately 1,300 employees and volunteers are anticipated, necessary to provide the impressive list of proposed healthcare services and amenities of this $195 million project.

The Medical Center of Trinity will employ the latest advances in digital and wireless technology, focus on patient comfort and privacy, feature all-digital technology for outpatient and inpatient imaging, operate a 24-hour emergency department, offer surgical and critical care services and so much more.

The entire tri-county area will certainly benefit from such an institution and nobody realizes that more than the residents here at Trinity.

TRINITY, FL - FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2010

LOOKING FORWARD!

We’re sliding into February with some pretty awesome weather. The month of January was unusually cold, but in the big picture, it is still the best place to be. So much of the country was slammed with snow and sleet, while we were contending with the wind and frigid Canadian air.

This week the golfers have been flocking to Fox Hollow with these 70+ degree temperatures. When they walk through these double doors, the grins on their faces say it all.

Some of these folks from the north come down every year and before they even make it to their winter lodging, they swing by to make their first tee-time. Now that’s what I’m talking about.

TRINITY, FL – FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2010

CAMPAGNA UPDATE!

The word is out now. Campagna Homes recently sold their exquisite Villa Sorrento model home in Florencia. As the young buyers are eager to make this their new home, Campagna is sorry to leave the breathtaking views and comforts of the five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms and two-story glass wall overlooking the grand pool and lanai.

For more than 50 years, the Campagna family has built quality homes in the area so rest assured they aren’t going anywhere. As a matter of fact, they hope to build their newest masterpiece dream home on another of our exclusive home sites here in Florencia.

Even though they are currently working from their corporate office location, they have a portfolio of satisfied customers who are more than willing to showcase their dream homes to potential buyers. Feel free to stop by here at the Welcome Center in the Fox Hollow Golf Club or contact Campagna directly by visiting www.campagnahomes.com or calling 727-372-5353.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2010

To 2010!

It’s a new year and what a way to start! We have four homes under construction and one to commence within a month or so. Activity has been steadily increasing over the last quarter of 2009 and extending into 2010. The builders gear up for a good year!

For anyone who has visited our old Welcome Center location in Floresta, you would have seen a home well on its way as Costanza Homes goes to town. They also have poured the foundation for a start in Mirasol with another soon to follow as they just executed a construction agreement for a new residence in Florencia.

Arthur Rutenberg Homes is under way in Siena as they graded the lot for their buyers. They are also finalizing the plans on their new model in Evergreen at Trinity East, scheduled for completion in early summer.

As Samuelsen Builders is about to wrap up on one home in Floresta, they are well along on the first residence in Evergreen.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2009

THE TRUE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS!

It was spur-of-the-moment not to be forgotten! Last Saturday was the Annual Holiday Family Gathering at the clubhouse, with the usual yummy cookie exchange and the famous Story-Time with Santa.

What Frank didn’t know until the last minute was that the local school choir would not be able to perform as in years past because of a scheduling conflict. But what did occur was magical, unplanned and unpredictable.

One of the young girls asked if she could take the microphone and sing for the group. And that’s all it took. The children, all the way to the little tots, took turns entertaining as everyone watched and listened with the joy it brought to their hearts as they took center stage with no prompting or rehearsal.

Everyone walked away knowing that next year’s program was already set in motion.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2009

PEPPERMINT TREAT!

Terri, our Clinical Esthetician at the Champions’ Club, is offering a peppermint facial and body scrub special for the holidays. During the holiday scrub, you will relax every minute of the treatment and finish the scrub by showering off in the exquisite locker-room. Now it just doesn’t get any better!

The men have no excuses for not having any clue what to get their special lady. It’s as easy as putting it on their club account and presenting in the form of a gift certificate or specially wrapped gift basket. Now it just keeps getting better!

The women can pick their day, schedule the babysitter, call ahead for take out that night, and plan a day that they will remember until next year this same time. Guys, it’s a real winner!

tRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2009

THE JOURNEY

For those of you who didn’t catch one of our previous announcements, the Welcome Center is now located at the Fox Hollow Golf Club, just a stone’s throw from our old location in Floresta. I love it here and think it is the best move. As far as increased traffic and exposure, there is absolutely no comparison. So why the sad face when I look out and down the cart path to the old site?

It is totally unrecognizable, as the doublewide which served as our welcoming facility was demolished and hauled off in less than two days and the new owners have already begun construction of their dream home. Guess it’s just natural to have a little sentimental attachment there, not just to the building itself, but to the memorable relationships and experiences from the journey that started back in 2003.

It has been a successful journey and will no doubt continue to be one. So no more looking back…

TRINITY, FLORIDA - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2009

Welcome Always!

Frank Oliveto, Club Director, announced he hired a new Assistant. He is so pleased
to have her on staff with the long list of holiday events coming up at the clubhouse.
Timing couldn't be better!

She sounds perfect for the position as she comes to us with 10 years of experience in the Hospitality industry...and hospitality is what we are all about. The clubhouse has become like a second home for many of our residents with the pool, the workout room and just a place to hang with friends. That's thanks to the current staff and now to the new girl on the block who take a special interest in the personal one-on-one attention.

Stop by the Welcome Center, now located at Fox Hollow Golf Club. I will be glad to give you a tour of our clubhouse and show you why we take such pride in our facility and our hospitality!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2009

TOWA

I just was thumbing through the current edition of the Trinity Communities Newsletter to catch up on what’s happening in the area. It’s a great publication thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Trinity Oaks Women’s Association (TOWA).

They are an active social and philanthropic women’s organization in the Trinity communities. Glancing at their event calendar one would see activities such as luncheons with various speakers, dinner dances, quilting, book club, bridge and mah jongg groups, military bridge, bunco, golf, bowling, trips and tours, and so on and so on.

With money raised from ad placements, they are able to make substantial contributions to local charities. They also take an active part in various fundraising opportunities.

TOWA invites any female resident of Trinity Oaks, Fox Hollow, Fox Wood and The Champions’ Club to become a part of their organization, currently boasting two hundred members.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2009

"HEART" FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Fox Hollow’s “Heart” for the Holidays has been set in motion as the holidays are once again upon us. Fox Hollow Golf Club is supporting the Metropolitan Ministries charity this holiday season after making quite an impact through the efforts of the members and guests last year. With the current state of the economy, they hope to be able to reach out to even more of the increasing number of homeless families in the Tri-county area.

They will be fundraising for canned foods and new toys. As a special thanks to those who do participate, the Pro Shop will be offering monetary incentives. For every canned food item brought in, $1 up to $10 will be deducted from pro shop purchases (clothing and shoes only, no equipment). For every new toy donated, $2 will be deducted up to $10. Those who donate more than 25 canned food items will receive a raffle ticket for a special drawing on an item selected by Matt Cote of a significant value.

Keep in mind over the next weeks how you too can positively impact lives this holiday season. As Aesop once said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small is ever wasted.”

TRINITY, FLORIDA – FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2009

it is always about the people!

It has been just three weeks since we moved the Welcome Center to this location at Fox Hollow Golf Club. Why then does it seem like I’ve always been here.

The staff, all the way from the owner to the dishwasher, have made me feel right at home from day one. As far as work environments go, this couldn’t be any better. Who wouldn’t want to work where people come to play and have a good time.

It is apparent that many customers feel just as at home here. In this short period of time, I am seeing a lot of the same faces over and over again. They too have made me feel welcome. Their smiles and attitudes reflect the casual, friendly, upbeat atmosphere that makes Fox Hollow stand out from the rest.

Come see for yourself…enjoy a round of golf on the last course designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and be sure to treat yourself to lunch or dinner afterwards. The menu selections and monthly specials will far exceed your expectations.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - TUESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2009

SETTLED IN!

We did it! We moved our Welcome Center here to Fox Hollow Golf Club and rather smoothly to be quite honest. Everyone told me to be prepared for the unexpected to happen, but in reality, it was an uneventful transition.

Not to say that we didn’t have little blips, such as miscommunication in the scheduling of the installation of the phone jack, etc. We managed to remain patient and calm, though, knowing that you can’t sweat the small stuff.

Everyone here at Fox Hollow has made me feel right at home. It’s like this was meant to be and when you visit, you will see what I mean. The Mediterranean furniture and accessories that we brought with us look like they were custom ordered for the place.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - TUESDAY, JULY 29, 2009

CHANGE IS COMING!

We are in the preparation stage of moving the Welcome Center, and if you were to walk in today you would know that something was up. It looks a little disorganized, even though the piles are carefully labeled and designated.

It’s never easy to move. The matter of the fact is, we’re only going 100 yards across the back of #10 tee to the Fox Hollow Golf Club. But it takes the same amount of work to pack up, unfortunately.

We plan to be up and running in our new location on August 11th. Please stop by for an overview of The Champions’ Club and grand tour of our clubhouse. And for all you golfers, it’s a great opportunity to check out the great course and facility at Fox Hollow, including the pro shop and Windows on the Green Bar and Grille.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2009

“Rain or Shine”

With the record-breaking downpours over the past week, one would only hope that we will begin to dry out by Saturday’s 4th of July events that will be taking place all over the Tampa Bay area. But come rain or shine, the homeowners here at The Champions’ Club will be celebrating in style, barring high winds and/or lightning of course.

This annual event has been so popular over the past few years that we’ve had to make it for homeowners only. Don’t know if it’s the watermelon eating contest, whipped cream pie eating contest, pool jousting, greased watermelon catch, watermelon seed spitting contest or the goldfish scramble that brings them back for more. Or maybe it’s the combination of friendly competition, terrific prizes and scrumptious picnic lunch.

And it shouldn’t come as any surprise that Frank, the clubhouse director, has added a new twist to the mix. Four large blocks of ice will be dropped into the pool at 12:30 sharp. Partygoers have been asked to put their thinking caps on to guess how long it will take the floating ice to melt. As swimmers play, meltdown will be timed for first and second place winners.

This is only one of many events that take place over the year, but certainly rates right up there at the top!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2009

SUMMER'S HERE!!!

You can tell school’s out… except during a couple brief rain showers, children have been splashing and carrying on in the clubhouse pool since 10:00 this morning. What a great place for them to meet up with their friends. Moms aren’t exactly complaining as they relax by the pool, soak up some sunshine and let the kids wear themselves out.

Summer vacation officially began last night with a club-sponsored “Kids’ Pizza & Pool Party” celebrating no more books, no more getting up early and no more running out the door to make the bus-stop on time. Seventy-five children swam, played games and enjoyed plenty of pizza and lemonade.

It’s just the beginning of the play groups and gatherings at the poolside. With long hot days ahead, there’s no better place to escape the heat!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - SATURDAY, MAY 16, 2009

TOP HONORS HERE AT HOME!

To nobody’s surprise, Campagna Homes earned another top honor in this year’s Tampa Bay Parade of Homes, sponsored by the Tampa Bay Builders Association. The green-certified Villa Sorrento estate model home in Florencia took Grand Award in the $1.7 - $2.2 million single-family priced homes.

They continue to dazzle us all, not only with the awards that hang on their walls, but also with their generous contributions to the different charities they have supported throughout the years.

Tonight, they graciously open up their model for the 2nd annual Wine & Tails wine tasting and silent auction evening fundraiser to benefit the Humane Society of Pinellas. Top off the beautiful setting as the home overlooks a lake and three fairways of the Fox Hollow Golf Course, with fine wines, hors d’oeuvres and live music, everyone benefits.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2009

DIAMONDS ARE A GIRL'S BEST FRIEND!

Bunco has become very popular with all the ladies here at The Champions’ Club. Each month, two homeowners volunteer to host the event, with themes, prizes, appetizers and BYOB. The best part is, it all takes place at the clubhouse so it’s a night out for the ladies. Am sure the husbands appreciate the night in as well.

April’s birthstone is “diamond”, so hence, the theme this month…Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend! And no doubt, the ladies will show up in their bling-bling.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2009

ROCKIN' GOOD TIME!

It’s a Rockin’ Sock Hop for all the T-birds and Pink Ladies! Members only are invited to cruise on over to the Clubhouse for a hot roddin’ good time on Friday night. Casual or 50’s threads – be cool!

Now who can turn down that invitation! After all, the tunes from the 50’s are timeless...Jailhouse Rock, Great Balls of Fire, Shout…just to name a few. Not many can sit those out. If you prefer something a little slower, there’s Unchained Melody, In the Still of the Night, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, and so many more.

It’s a genre that young and old alike can relate to as proven by the lasting popularity of so many songs and artists.

You too could be a part of this journey through time by joining the family of residents whose journey has brought them here to The Champions’ Club. Be sure to visit today.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2009

WELCOME BACK arh!!!

Arthur Rutenberg Homes is back and we couldn’t be happier! They have opened their new model, the Mirasol 1067, and just so happens, in the neighborhood of Mirasol. This is model number four here in The Champions’ Club, with prior model homes in Salano, Siena and Mirasol. With a great track record, we are proud to have them as one of our Premier Builders.

This latest two-story, 4,752 sq. ft. masterpiece features 4 bedroom, 4 baths, bonus room, media room and den. Another beautiful floor plan with all the extras and then some. One of the things that most caught my eye was the outdoor fireplace situated at the far end of the pool and lanai. What a great place to enjoy a cool evening with friends and family.

I would encourage everyone to stop by for a visit. You will appreciate the latest in décor and ingenuity in layout and design. While you’re here, please take the time to stop by at the Sales Center and we will guide you to all our beautiful models.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2009

BUNCO NIGHTS AND MORE AT THE CHAMPIONS' CLUB

Here we are, the holiday decorations are hardly packed and put away and we’re off and running with new activities at the clubhouse. By popular demand, one of the residents has started a Bunco night, calling all ladies of the Champions’ Club to meet on Friday nights once a month.

Sounds like a fun night out for these gals…prizes, refreshments and laid back recreation. Seems like they’re thinking ahead with February “Hearts” and March “Green with Envy” themes.

The Activities Committee, in addition, is planning a full calendar of events for the new year of 2009. Can’t wait to see what all is in store for the lucky homeowners here at The Champions’ Club!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2009

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Wow, we really are here...2009! It went so fast, 2008, that is. But maybe not fast enough for some of us. I think it is safe to say, though, that all of us are ready for a new beginning.

Those of us here are certainly looking forward to an exciting year as we venture out into the world of general real estate, opening up our doors to the sale of new and existing estate homes. June and Lynn are anticipating a busy time as we settle into the new year.

Over 280 families have chosen to make this their home. We expect the trend to continue as buyers are drawn to The Champions' Club with all the amenities of the private residents' clubhouse, fabulous golf course and conservation views, surrounding upscale restaurants and shopping, and maybe most of all...friendly neighbors.

That couldn't be more apparent than in the 200 plus residents who opted to bring in the new year with friends and neighbors at the club's celebration bash-what a great turnout!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - MONDAY DECEMBER 22, 2008

IT'S THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

Another spectacular family event at the Champions’ Club was a huge success…the Holiday

Family Gathering! And just last month was the Family Fall Festival with a hay ride, cake

The festivities last Saturday were a great way to get the whole family in the spirit of

Christmas as guests were invited to participate in a cookie exchange, bring an ornament to

decorate the clubhouse tree, get a picture with Santa and sing along with the Seven Springs

With all of the fun, food and holiday cheer, however, the real spirit of Christmas was

evident as residents dropped off specially wrapped gifts for the “Toys for Tots Collection.”

After all, it’s those little things that touch someone else that make the holidays so

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2008

HERE WE GO!

You may be wondering why you haven’t heard from us here for awhile. Well, we have a big announcement! We’ve been busy regrouping and have expanded Champions’ Club Realty, Inc. to be a full-service general real estate company. Our services will now include not only the sale of estate lots, but also new and existing estate homes here in the Trinity area. It is an exciting venture, and we are now ready to roll!

Lynn Croake, Realtor Associate, has joined the staff here at the Sales Center to assist June Place, our Licensed Real Estate Broker. Lynn, with her husband and teenage son, were among the first Champions’ Club residents so she is very familiar with the neighborhood, the builders and the amenities. She brings experience and a passion that makes her stand out with prospective buyers.

Of course, June has been here since the sale of the first home site in the Champions’ Club, so combined we have all the experience necessary to call ourselves the Neighborhood Specialists – and right here at the Sales Center. Soon our website will reflect the availability of the resale homes within the seven villages of The Champions’ Club. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact us directly if we may be of any help.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2008

GENTLEMEN & LADIES!

Promised I would follow up to let you know who took top prize at The Champions’ Club 2008 Auto and Arts & Crafts Show. This year it went to the proud owner of a 1966 Corvette. Other cars on display included: 1914 Model T, ’58 Rolls Royce, two replica racing bikes (2006 Ducati and ’07 Triumph), 4 Corvettes, 2006 Audi with Lamborghini engine, 2006 BMW and a ’95 Porsche 911.

From the pictures, one would gather they had a lot of fun and took great pride and exceptional care of their prized possessions. My husband has restored two cars so I can appreciate the beauty in the lines, style, color, sound, etc. of a car, be it new or old. If you are hooked, you’re hooked and luckily, there are always others around who share the same passion.

You hear about the “Garage Queen”, that’s for looks only, not to be driven or touched. That’s why I got a kick out of the pictures of the owner of the Model T sportin’ around the parking lot giving rides to those homeowners in attendance. Now that’s the way to enjoy an antique!

And not to be outdone, a few women also brought beautiful crafts to display. There were monogrammed purses, custom-made quilts and articles of clothing, beaded jewelry, just to name a few.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2008

BEST OF SHOW!

Who would have thought – the Champions’ Club hosting its own car show! One of the residents pulled it off with such success last year, it has now become an annual event.

They’re calling it a get together for neighbors to meet one another, when, in fact, it’s a chance for our members to show off their cherished cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles (road, racing, mountain, BMX) and this year they’ve added customized golf carts! They want any and all types of vehicles, so who knows what will pull up.

For the first time, those residents with special talents have been invited to display their personal arts and crafts. So there should be something of interest for everyone!

I think it’s safe to say that we can all appreciate the beauty of a ’58 Rolls Royce or a vintage 94-year-old Model T brassy. I admit, I can’t wait to see pictures of this year’s Best of Show.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2008

LAST HURRAH!

I suppose everyone has big plans for the 3-day holiday weekend. It is kind of that last hurrah of summer even though the heat stays with us well through September.

Back when school started the day after Labor Day, parents would wrap their summer vacations around the long weekend. However, with school already in session, many are just celebrating close to home.

The chance of rain is relatively low which is why there will be many boaters on the local lakes and many more darting up and down the intercoastal waterway searching for that perfect island picnic spot. There will be beach blankets and umbrellas spread from one end of the beach to the other as families retreat to our recreational paradise right at our back door.

Also, just saw where one of the neighbors here is organizing a last minute pool party and grill out for any resident who would like to attend at the clubhouse poolside on Monday afternoon. Always seems everyone has a great time at the spur of the moment gatherings.

Then, for those who have had enough fun in the sun, it is college football opening week. How can one not be excited, no matter where your loyalties lie.

Whatever the weekend has in store for you, may it be a safe and happy holiday!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, AUGUST 1, 2008

TO THE RESCUE!

We all know how much we need the rain, but here it is the last few weeks or so before school starts and the kids, and adults alike, are getting cabin fever with all these daily summer showers. Indeed, the wet weather has spoiled many outdoor activities that would normally keep us occupied and entertained.

So it came as no surprise when I heard how Frank and Sally have stepped up to the plate. As director and concierge of our residents’ clubhouse, they have managed to note that there was a need for some planned activities that could be scheduled, rain or shine.

With the help of a couple of the talented and creative residents, Frank and Sally have organized “Kids Craft Time” a couple times a week, with projects such as building birdhouses, painting cute critters, decorating mini totes and designing dresser mirrors and baseball caps. Who knows what they will come up with next week.

I did say the adults too, right! Well, they weren’t forgotten. Anyone up for scrabble, scrapbooking or yoga? Most recently, invitations were sent out to all homeowners announcing the second annual Poolside Luau Party, and for that, we will keep our fingers crossed for a sunny day. After all, we must crown our new Limbo King and Queen!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2008

FAMILY PICNICS ARE ALWAYS FUN!

Just hung up from a quick chat with The Champions' Club concierge. I had given prospects a tour of the grand clubhouse facility earlier in the day and noticed photos from the 4th had already been posted on the bulletin boards.

From all accounts, the third annual Champions' Club 4th of July celebration was once again a big hit with the community. More than 150 Club members enjoyed an old-fashioned, picnic-style gathering with their neighbors.

Moms and dads happily pressed their faces into whipped cream and watermelon as part of the family-style games. Children and adults of all ages participated in sack races, water balloon tosses and relays. New this year was The Champions' Club version of American Gladiator where custom-made platforms floated on the pool for friendly "jousting". While adults seemed constantly off balance on the wobbly water platforms, children seemed almost impossible to knock off. In addition, a giant inflatable water slide offered up another way to cool off.

As the grand finale to the day's activities, more than 50 children gathered around the pool for the much anticipated release of 100 goldfish. Parents and children alike scrambled to collect them. Many reported that the goldfish from years past are happy additions to the family aquarium.

A July 4th Celebration would not be complete without all of the hamburgers, hot dogs and watermelon that you could eat. No one left hungry!

TRINITY, FL - THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2008

HAPPY 4TH!

I just did a search for local events planned for tomorrow and was pleasantly surprised how many communities across the Bay area are gearing up for 4th of July celebrations. All the way from a small-town parade and Miss Fire Cracker Contest to dinner and dancing…of course, all topped off with fireworks.

If you want to drive into Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is having a daylong Freedom Fest with live music and entertainment in the afternoon followed with a spectacular fireworks demonstration at Channelside. Close by visitors can stop by for a tour of the SS American Victory and then enjoy the Channelside fireworks from the ship’s decks. For something a little more formal perhaps, the Museum of Science & Industry offers dinner and dancing and fireworks from the top of the IMAX Dome Theater.

Chubby Checker is even in town for a concert at Busch Gardens before the fireworks display. As a matter of fact, there are concerts all around the Tampa Bay area, so if music is your love, then the choices are endless, and most of them free.

Many of us choose to stay close to home with family and friends, and not fight the crowds or the traffic. It appears that quite a number of our homeowners have chosen to do just that. The clubhouse is decorated and ready for families to enjoy a day around the pool with an old-fashioned picnic-style lunch, with games and activities for all ages. It’s one of the homeowner favorites as it’s a true kick-off to the summer.

TRINITY, FL - MONDAY, JUNE 2, 2008

SCHOOL'S OUT!

Just seems like yesterday when “school bells were ringing and parents were singing,” as I put it then. Now, here it is, the last week of school, kids are high-fiving and parents are crying. In all seriousness, though, school-year schedules get so hectic with homework, sports, other extracurricular activities, friends, etc., that most parents also exhale a sigh of relief when school lets out for the summer.

It appears that parents and kids celebrated this momentous occasion in style here at The Champions' Club. On Sunday, our concierge at the clubhouse organized a pizza and pool party with nothing else in mind but "Another year done - pat yourselves on the back and let's party!" And of course, swimming, playing, eating pizza and ice cream was a great way to start.

There's no reason for kids to be bored for the summer, with the pool and tennis courts at their backdoor. Plus, hats off to our staff at the clubhouse who will work hard to schedule events that will keep their interest and allow for neighborhood fellowship.

Before you know it, August will be here and we'll be singing a different tune - again.

TRINITY, FL - MONDAY, MAY 5, 2008

corner news!

I’m amazed how fast the Trinity Town Center, at the corner of Trinity Boulevard and Little Road, is coming together. The expected completion date of August 2008 is just around the corner, and will be here in the blink of an eye. Surely how time flies!

Be sure to visit the website www.trinitytowncenter.com. The list of new tenants is impressive indeed – from bank, insurance and law firms to fancy dining and specialty salons, with lots of others. From everything that I have read, it seems the intent is to keep it exclusive, yet family oriented, which is really what Trinity is all about.

Trinity, which is home to The Champion’s Club, is the perfect example of a master-planned community in its glory. It’s all about new, young, fresh - and it's constantly changing as more families are drawn to its hometown flair.

Someone has done their homework. One look around and you can tell the experts know the Trinity area is only going to continue to grow regardless of the economic times.

TRINITY, FL - THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2008

Ah, spring break! That brings back memories, doesn’t it! Of course, I grew up here and so it usually meant off to Colorado with the family for what we hoped was a relatively warm week of skiing. We found winter skiing to be miserable at times. Especially when you’re not accustomed to the below-zero temperatures and bundle up under so many layers you can’t bend over to lace your boots.

But for many, spring break was the time to load up the car, kids, dogs, grandparents, cousins and all, and head to the beaches. For many of the snowbirds, it was an escape from the four feet of snow piled up along the sidewalks in a last ditch effort to save their sanity.

Pretty sure it all still applies today. But honestly, we have paradise right here. March and April are some of the best beach-going days of the whole year, whether you live here or not. So you made a great choice if you’ve decided to become beach bums for the week!

Pasco County schools start their spring break vacation today. This past week Pinellas and Manatee were out. I guess they have to stagger them or no one would be at work! Parents need family fun time, too.

TRINITY, FL - MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2008

It's the place to be!

How we let this happen, I’m not too sure. But I am sure that way too often we who call Tampa Bay our home sometimes forget how lucky we are to live here. We are so close to the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful beaches and all that comes with that…pretty sunsets, walks on the beach, drives across the spectacular Sunshine Skyway, grouper sandwiches at Frenchy’s, boating out to the popular islands . . . the list goes on and on.

But just yesterday a new prospect was quizzing us here at the Welcome Center about local attractions and how close we are to the beaches. When I started pointing them out on the map, my face lit up and an entire list just spilled out.

My first thought was that my husband and I are overdue for an evening at Fred Howard Park & beach to watch the sunset. It’s an amazing beach, less commercialized than some of the others and just 20 minutes from here. And just a little further south is Sunset Beach, where beachgoers with folding chairs and thrown-together picnics gather at dusk to listen to live music, usually local talent seeking to expand their fan base.

To the north, is the Anclote River, with Tarpon Springs’ newest marina - a state of the art facility. The river winds into three large bayous, where fishermen are always enjoying a little solitude and hoping to snag a little dinner. And all of that is right here, within 30 minutes of The Champions’ Club. Travel a little farther south and the beach destinations go for miles and miles.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2008

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

Oh, there’s a buzz out here today. Nearly 120 golfers (tour players and qualifiers) from all over the world have come to the Fox Hollow Golf Course qualify for the PODS tournament. It’s their last opportunity to earn themselves a spot in this event which begins today, March 3rd, at the Innisbrook Resort a few miles from here in Palm Harbor. The pressure is unbelievable, with only 4 spots open, they must bring their best game today.

This is just the latest in a series of exciting qualifying events held at Fox Hollow over the years in conjunction with PGA and Champions’ Tour events, bringing mostly undiscovered, ,but some very familiar golfers through the clubhouse and onto the course.

Matt Cote, General Manager of Fox Hollow Golf Club, is understandably proud to have been chosen to host such a highly rated event for the second year in a row. The staff has been preparing for a long time, and is as excited and focused as the players attending today. The greenskeepers have been double-cutting and rolling greens, marking hazards, perfecting sand traps and whatever it takes in the long and detailed process to stand out as a championship course.

Best of luck to all of them. Of course all of us here are pulling for the gentleman qualifier here all the way from England, taking his best shot at getting into the tournament, and staying here with one of our members. After all, he’s almost family!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2008

OFF TO A GREAT START!

Despite the media’s negative play on the real estate market, there’s a lot to talk about here at The Champions’ Club ... a lot of positive, that is. It was just two weeks ago that Campagna Homes hosted a Wine Tasting Soiree and Open House for well over a hundred guests at their gorgeous new Villa Sorrento home in Florencia. What a hit that was! The “wows” never stopped until they closed the doors and turned off the lights at 10:00 pm.

On that very same weekend Mark Maconi Homes featured their newly-staged inventory home with a great turn-out, all responding to radio spots and ads in the local papers. Their home is lovely, an amazing transformation with the addition of some well-chosen furnishings and that personal touch to bring it all home.

Now, just two weeks later, Costanza Homes has moved into their new model in Mirasol. They are still working on those final touches, and I am anxious to go out there myself. Every day you see something that’s been added that makes you want to swing back through for another look. Yet another success story!

Did I mention one lot closing and two contracts since the first of the year! We’re off to a great start in 2008, and looking forward to a great year with a lot more great things to come. Hope to see you out here!

TRINITY, FLORIDA - THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2008

A Chill in the Air?

I hate to admit this, when so many are experiencing such harsh winter conditions, but I’m looking forward to the cooler days and chilly nights here. My husband will throw a few pieces of aged wood into our outdoor fire pit and we will sit outside for hours on the weekends.

Just last week, June and I attended an open house and wine tasting at Campagna’s model home in Florencia. The evening was cool, misty and overcast and a perfect evening to showcase their lanai and beautiful spa/pool and the fire-pit island surrounded by a moat. Did I mention, the fire-pit was gas and lit by remote control - the epitome of all fire pits.

Especially here in the south, the outdoor fireplaces, built-in pits, chimeneas, etc. have become so popular. It’s hard to justify indoor fireplaces when the only benefit is the ambiance. After all, how many times would the temperature dip low enough to really use it? Certainly not enough to have a cord of wood delivered and stacked alongside your home, only to rot waiting for the next cold spell.

We’re lucky to live in a climate that allows us to enjoy the outdoors year-round, albeit with a few props here and there. With all the horrible weather up north this particular week, we’re all enjoying it a little more than usual.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 2008

MARK MACONI HOMES STAGES INVENTORY IN FLORENCIA

June and I just came back from previewing the newly-furnished inventory home by Mark Maconi Homes right here in Florencia at The Champions’ Club. If you appreciate the art of fine living, you owe it to yourself to do the same.

Overlooking the first fairway of the Fox Hollow Golf Course, this 4,384 square foot, four-bedroom/four-bath home has been recently furnished to showcase the special features of this magnificent residence by Mark Maconi Homes. The home includes a study, home theater, second-story bonus room and 3-car garage.

With the golf course vista as a backdrop, this is a great home for entertaining, with an indoor and outdoor kitchen plus a built-in wine captain center. What we found particularly interesting was the “art gallery” with large built-in shelving and tiers to showcase collectibles. Nothing like great views inside and out for guests!

If you’re around this weekend, I would strongly encourage you to take the time to visit this newest masterpiece at The Champions’ Club by Mark Maconi Homes during their mini grand opening … Saturday and Sunday, the 26th and 27th of January.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2008

TRINITY MEDICAL CENTRE

Every time I pick up a local paper or magazine, there is more popping up about the Trinity Medical Centre. It will be the region’s first new hospital in more than twenty years, so no wonder there’s an excitement throughout the whole tri-county area of Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.

We have already seen professionals from the medical field moving into the area and will continue to do so as the Centre will be one of Pasco’s largest private employers. Trinity and the entire SR-54 corridor has been exploding with new shopping, restaurants and service-related businesses, and now we know a big reason why.

To find out more about the Centre itself and the services to be offered, you will want to visit

http://www.trinitymedicalcentre.org. You may be as amazed as I was at the fact that it will be built exclusively with all private rooms, but there’s more to learn…see for yourself.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2007

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

The busiest group of folks out here these days is the Adult Activities Committee, who have been keeping everyone happy and in their best partying form. New this fall has been the monthly adult socials, typically held on a Friday evening at the club and themed differently each time. Let’s see, the last two were South of the Border and a Luau, so not sure what to expect for December.

This activities committee is also finalizing plans for a huge New Year’s Eve party at the club – anticipated attendance is over 200! Complete with catered yummies, tent and dance floor on the back lawn, music and merriment of all kinds, it promises to be a wonderful night. We’re obviously lobbying Mother Nature for a nice mild night, but the area heaters are rented, just in case it gets chilly out on the pool deck.

Amongst all that fun, the developer also puts on several events each year – first a Trunk or Treat Halloween party, gate decorating contest and neighborhood Trick or Treating. Club director Frank Oliveto does this kind of thing great, and we received lots of comments about people happy to have such a great, safe option for kids right here in their own community. The developer puts on a delightful Holiday Family Gathering – coming up this weekend – which will include a visit and story time with Santa, a holiday musical presentation from the Seven Springs Middle School choir, tree decorating, a cookie exchange and light refreshments.

These are all wonderful ways to get neighbors and families to meet and enjoy some rewarding fellowship despite such busy daily lives. It’s all good cheer for the holidays.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2007

DAYDREAMING!

It is getting SO hard to go to work these days, particularly so when you look out the window and see golfers teeing up their ball all day long and taking on Fox Hollow. For the non-golfers, they still can enjoy a view that's hard to describe, with a beautiful 14-acre horseshoe lake reflecting blue skies and green fairways. But for the golfers, there's a Robert Trent Jones, Sr. masterpiece out that window. Those in the know consistently rate Fox Hollow as the finest semi-private course in the Tampa Bay area. Give it a try and you will surely understand their thinking.

Course superintendent Terry Teets is not only a turf expert, but also an excellent golfer, and he knows what kind of condition golfers should enjoy on a great course. Beautiful tee boxes, tight but not too tight fairways, beautifully maintained collars and fringe around every green, and of course, near perfect putting surfaces that are fast and true. It must be that new Seashore Paspalum grass they re-did the greens with two years ago.

Yep it’s hard to go to work these days, between Fox Hollow and the beautiful weather. Maybe tomorrow . . .

TRINITY, FLORIDA - WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2007

LET'S ALL BE THANKFUL!

Everybody is scurrying around to get ready for Turkey Day. Moms are cleaning house and baking everyone's favorite pies while Dads are ..... well, around my house Dad is cleaning the bird and getting it ready to stuff. A job I just despise.

It's funny really, our family looks forward to Thanksgiving, not only for the unbelievable smorgasbord of the most fabulous delectable dishes that you crave all year, but also for the traditional Macy's Parade and an afternoon of football. But now you can add to that list, standing in line to be one of the first to rush in as the department stores open their doors early Friday morning. Seems as though some as early as 4:00 am.

A friend of mine just mentioned that she and some girlfriends are going to camp out in front of a popular electronics store (not to mention any names), starting about 5:00 pm Thanksgiving night. Can you imagine? Oh well, old age is setting in. That is just way too much work to save a few dollars.

Well, seems that's one more thing for which I am thankful this year...none of my girlfriends were looking for a camping partner.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2007

TOO LITTLE TIME

Now is when you wish everybody had two weeks off to enjoy this incredible weather we are having. November…April, hard to say because both are at the top of my list as favorite months of the year. One thing for sure, we aren’t having to savor the sunny days knowing that the cold, cloudy, blustery, winter days lie just around the corner. No indeed, there are many more of these to come.

With picture-perfect weather as a backdrop, there are endless events taking place across the Tampa Bay area this weekend and continuing right up until the holidays. You name it, there’s something for everybody. Between jazz festivals, art shows, medieval fairs, chili cook-offs, rib and seafood fests, guided hikes and the Ford Ironman World Championship 70.3 on Clearwater Beach, there is no excuse to be a couch potato. Unless of course, you are glued to the flat screen cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or your favorite collegiate football team. Allowed, but only for an afternoon.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2007

FRIDAYS ON THE GOLF COURSE

On a recent Friday I had the pleasure of greeting, meeting and playing in a golf tournament at Fox Hollow, since The Champions' Club was one of the title sponsors. The Gulf Coast Injury Center put on the tournament, and donated $10,000 to The Mike Alstott Family Foundation to help needy families in the Tampa Bay area. Mike Alstott was present to autograph memorabilia for participants. It was such an honor to meet him and to see such a fine example of a professional athlete dedicating his time and effort to supporting such a worthy cause.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2007

FALL IS IN THE AIR

It’s great fun to be out and about in the neighborhood these days…a lot of our homeowners have so creatively decorated their mailboxes and entryways for Halloween. The last day of October, just around the corner, can you believe it? We say it every year, but truly, it does seem to come faster every year. And certainly retailers are in their heyday now, the beginning of the holiday season.

The parties have already started. Last weekend’s Halloween Costume Party at the Champions’ Club Clubhouse was a big hit. There were well over a hundred adults dressed in lavish costumes – from scary, to funny, to not-so-sure what – who danced the night away with friends and neighbors. And not to leave the kids out, the concierge and staff have had a ghoulishly good time planning for them as well for the "Trunk or Treat" festivities on October 31^st.And rumor has it that many of the neighbors are hosting "Join Us if you Dare" events.

But, it’s not just partying in disguise, or filling the bags with candy, but the long-awaited feeling of fall in the air that adds a spark to our spirit.

Four of our luxury home builders – Arthur Rutenberg Homes, Campagna Homes, Costanza Homes and Samuelsen Builders – entered their respective models in the 2007 Tampa Bay Luxury Home Tour. Wow, what a great first two weekends!

You’ve all seen and heard about the various Parades and Tours put on at different times of the year by the local builder associations, and they really turn out the traffic. But this is very specifically targeting those looking for luxury homes in very upscale communities, and so far the response has been far better than anyone expected.

A little Chamber of Commerce weather hasn’t hurt either, so a lot of people are finding their way to The Champions’ Club to check out these stunning model homes. If you have a little time this weekend, you should take a look, too. This is the final weekend of this year’s tour, so don’t miss the opportunity. You may even want to check out Fox Hollow Golf Club while you’re here. Wish I were out there right now, but, alas, still on the clock.

TRINITY, FLORIDA - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2007

DINING AT ITS BEST!

Oh, what a treat! A very nice young man just dropped off some coupons for free appetizers at the recently-opened Tijuana Flats. Along with so many other new restaurants in the area (Outback Steakhouse, Bonefish Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, and the Trinity Grille to name a few), Tijuana Flats has been well received, according to him. The Trinity area certainly needed a Mexican-themed restaurant. Some of the other recent openings nearby include Crispers, Up the Creek and Shane's Rib Shack. It is exciting to drive around the area these days, because everywhere you look there is something new under construction or getting ready to open.

My husband and I lived in Texas for 14 years, and we became very fond of the Tex-Mex cuisine. If we couldn't get our weekly fix, we were not happy campers. From what I'm reading here, Tijuana Flats is authentic Tex-Mex. "Honey, will you be home on time tonight? We're going out for dinner!"

Luxury Home Tour

Coming to The Champions' Club

There's an army of fixer-uppers skittering all around The Champions' Club in preparation for the upcoming Luxury Tour of Homes, which starts next weekend. All four of our builders with models on site - Arthur Rutenberg Homes, Campagna Homes, Costanza Homes and Samuelsen Builders - have entered this upscale tour, which is sponsored by Tampa Bay Homebuyer and promises three consecutive weekends of visits from some of the area's most discriminating buyers.

Everyone is in touch-up mode, and landscaping is being freshened up all around to put our best foot forward. According to organizers, we should be expecting hundreds of visitors over the next three weekends, each here to soak in the magnificent designs, architectural elements and elegant furnishings they see often in their dreams of the perfect home. Even in this challenging market, there are still people out there who know just what they want, and also know when they see it.

So you might want to watch and listen for details about the Luxury Home Tour and come on out for a visit. In the meantime, I need to go sweep the stoop. We have company coming!

Trinity, Florida - Thursday, September 6, 2007

School bells are ringing, parents are singing!!!

Now that school has been in session for almost a month, everyone should be back in the swing of their new schedules, including no more sleeping in nor staying up late.

It was a long summer as schools let out at the end of May and did not start back until August 20th. It was an exceptionally long summer break as the School Administration changed the beginning and ending dates of the 2007-2008 school year, 12 weeks to be exact. With the new starting date of August 20th, the proposed last day of school for students will be June 4th, 2008. Next summer will get everyone back to the normal 10-week summer break.

For those who would like to have a complete list of planned holidays, in-service days, etc. you may visit www.pasco.k12.fl.us.

Trinity, Florida – September 3, 2007

Welcome To The Champions’ Club!

We did it! After months of brainstorming and lots of meetings with some really smart people, we’ve completed our redesign of ChampionsClubFla.com. We’re very excited to welcome you to our new site.

Research indicates that nine out of 10 people start their search for a new home online. So our goal is to bring you to our site, encourage you to spend some time getting to know all you can about our beautiful, luxury community, and convince you to keep The Champions’ Club on your “must see” list. Over the next few weeks we’ll be adding photo galleries and video tours of the community, our stunning model homes by some of the areas finest luxury builders and the private members-only clubhouse. We will also be showing off Fox Hollow Golf Club, home to the last course designed and built by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr. You can enjoy photographs of The Champions’ Club right now by clicking on the Photo Tour button.

There’s something going on everyday at The Champions’ Club, and our staff at the Welcome Center will be keeping you up to date on all the activity right here on our new CC Blog. We’ve made it easy for you to talk to our staff or request a private tour of the community. Consider this a standing invitation to visit June Place at The Champions’ Club Welcome Center, where you will be treated to a wonderful overview and tour of our community. Welcome!

TRINITY, FL - FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010

PASCO'S FINEST!