Event: Free Food Distribution

13 Mar

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office is teaming up with Pasco Sheriff’s Charities, Farm Share, Union Missionary Baptist Church, the Gentlemen’s Course, Samaritan Corporation of Pasco County Inc. and the Pasco County NAACP for a free community food distribution! The next food distribution event will be at Union Missionary Baptist Church on Thursday, April 3 and will begin at 9 a.m. It’s first come first served, so come out early! We’re thrilled to connect our community to this resource. See you there!

When: April 3, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – Until The Food Runs Out
Where: Union Missionary Baptist Church – 6235 Pine Hill Drive, Port Richey, Florida 34668

Event: Author Fest at Starkey Ranch Library

2 Mar

Author Fest returns to Starkey Ranch TLC for the ultimate face-off of literary heroes versus villains 💥🌟📚 All ages are welcomed to join us for exciting speakers, special storytimes, cool giveaways, fun activities and more. You especially don’t want to miss out on the event’s book expo, which features over 40 local and independent authors!

✏️ FREE EVENT
🗓️ Saturday, May 3 • 10 AM – 2 PM
📍 Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center
🔗 Event Information

Grand Opening: Erik’s Eatery Food Truck

13 Feb

Erik’s Eatery Food Truck is up and running and the reviews are in…. the food is AMAZING! After retiring for about 45 seconds after the sale of his families restaurant, Christo’s, Erik is back at it again with his impressive cooking skills and his commitment to making the finest foods available, all from his food truck! His menu has all the staples you’ve come to expect and we had the opportunity to test the food and it was spectacular! 

If you’re interested in seeing for yourself, check out the Erik’s Eatery Food Truck Facebook Page or feel free to contact Erik directly to book the truck! 

Erik’s Eatery
(727) 267-8191

Event: 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run

28 Jan

It’s almost time for this year’s Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics! Join us to celebrate these incredible athletes on March 26 at 9 a.m. at the Tampa Premium Outlets. No registration is required, so come out and show your support!

Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Where: Tampa Bay Premium Outlets at 2300 Grand Cypress Drive in Lutz, Florida 33559

Starkey Ranch, Trinity and Longleaf Communities – comes out and support the 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting the Special Olympics of Florida! 

Grand Opening: Starkey Ranch ER & Hospital

28 Dec

Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital: Opening Its Doors December 30th

 

Exciting news for the residents of Odessa, Starkey Ranch, and Trinity, Florida! A cutting-edge medical facility is set to open on December 30th, offering the community enhanced access to exceptional healthcare services. The new Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital, located at 2253 Heart Pine Avenue in Odessa, FL 33556, will soon be ready to serve patients with world-class medical care designed to meet the area’s growing needs.

State-of-the-Art Healthcare Facility

This modern hospital provides a fully equipped emergency room that delivers fast, expert care for a wide range of medical situations. Whether it’s a minor injury or a life-threatening emergency, the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital is prepared with the latest diagnostic technology and a highly trained medical team.

Open 24/7, the facility ensures that residents have immediate access to care around the clock. Patients will appreciate the streamlined process, featuring shorter wait times compared to larger hospitals, as well as the comfortable, patient-focused environment. With private rooms, advanced imaging services, and on-site diagnostic testing, the hospital offers comprehensive care in one convenient location.

A New Standard for Community Health

The Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital is part of the Nutex Health network, a nationally recognized leader in healthcare innovation. Since its founding in 2011, Nutex Health has been committed to delivering efficient, high-quality care tailored to patient needs. With more than 20 facilities nationwide, Nutex Health is redefining emergency healthcare with a focus on personalized service and patient satisfaction.

By opening this new hospital in Odessa, Nutex Health demonstrates its dedication to the growing healthcare needs of the Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and Odessa communities. This facility is positioned to support local residents with compassionate and accessible medical services as these vibrant areas continue to expand.

Conveniently Serving the Community

Located within the Starkey Ranch development, the hospital is ideally situated to serve the surrounding neighborhoods, making high-quality emergency care more accessible than ever.

This facility is poised to support:

  • Starkey Ranch: A thriving, family-oriented community with a focus on active living.
  • Trinity: A dynamic area known for its close-knit neighborhoods and vibrant local businesses.
  • Odessa: A region blending suburban appeal with ongoing growth and development.

Residents in these areas can rest easy knowing that exceptional medical care is just minutes away, enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.

Celebrate the Grand Opening

Residents are invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital on December 30th. This event offers a chance to tour the facility, meet the medical team, and learn more about the services available to the community.

For more information about this exciting new addition to Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and Odessa, visit their website at starkeyranchhospital.com.

The opening of the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital marks a significant milestone in the local healthcare landscape. With its commitment to providing top-tier care, the future of healthcare in these communities looks brighter than ever.

Grand Opening: Farm To Taco in Trinity

27 Dec

Farm to Taco: A Fresh New Flavor in Trinity, Florida

 

If you’re looking for a dining experience that blends vibrant flavors with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients, Farm to Taco is your new go-to spot in Trinity, Florida. Located at 10700 State Road 54, Suite D-104, this innovative restaurant is already making waves in the local culinary scene. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Farm to Taco is the perfect place to grab a casual lunch or enjoy a lively dinner with friends and family.

A Fresh Approach to Mexican Cuisine

Farm to Taco lives up to its name by sourcing the freshest ingredients from local farms, ensuring every bite bursts with authentic flavor and quality. The menu features a creative take on traditional Mexican dishes, emphasizing fresh vegetables, responsibly sourced meats, and handmade elements.

What’s on the Menu?

Expect a wide range of mouthwatering options designed to suit every palate. Some highlights include:

  • Signature Tacos: Choose from unique offerings like the Get Ridiculous Birria Taco, featuring Tender Braised Beef in a Chili Pepper Broth with Fresco Cheese and Our Not – Yo -Cheese served with a Lime Wedge and a side of Beef Consommé for Dipping, or the Bah – Me – O – Mi Taco, filled with Hoisin Glazed Pork topped with House Pickled Veggies, Sliced Fresh Jalapeno and Fresh Cilantro.

  • Customizable Bowls: Check out the Get Ridiculous Birria Bowl which has Tender Braised Beef in a Chili Pepper Broth with Fresco Cheese and Our Not – Yo -Cheese served with a Lime Wedge and a side of Beef Consommé for Dipping and is Garnished with Diced White Onion and Fresh Cilantro. Includes yellow rice and red beans.

  • House-Made Desserts: Indulge in sweet treats like Fried Mini Churros with Nutella drizzle or our Chocolate Tortilla Crepes with warm Chocolate Tortilla topped with Dolce De Leche, Fresh Strawberries, and House made Whipped Cream

For the full menu, visit Farm to Taco’s online ordering page.

Ambiance and Experience

The moment you step into Farm to Taco, you’ll be greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that combines rustic charm with modern flair. Bright pops of color, natural wood accents, and a lively vibe make this space feel both cozy and vibrant. Whether you’re dining inside or enjoying Florida’s beautiful weather on their patio, the ambiance is as enjoyable as the food.

What You Need to Know

  • Location: 10700 State Road 54, Suite D-104, Trinity, Florida 34655

  • Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

  • Website: For more information or to explore their story, visit farmtotacotrinity.com.

  • Online Ordering: Prefer to enjoy your meal at home? Order online for pickup or delivery.

Farm to Taco is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of fresh, local food and creative culinary artistry. Stop by to experience it for yourself and discover your new favorite taco spot in Trinity!

Breaking News: Christo’s Family Restaurant Sold!

16 Dec

According to a recent Facebook post by Christo’s Family Restaurant, they have sold the Trinity dining staple to local Starkey Ranch Resident Dan Zweifel. 

Dear Community,

As we celebrate 23 remarkable years of Christo’s Family Restaurant serving this amazing community, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your steadfast support, trust, and loyalty. Each interaction, shared story, and smile has made this journey truly unforgettable and profoundly fulfilling.

After thoughtful reflection, we’ve come to the decision that it’s time to turn the page to a new chapter. With our family growing older and our parents ready to embrace retirement, we’ve chosen to take this step toward cherishing more family moments together. Over the years, we have been incredibly blessed by your unwavering support. Some of our closest friendships have blossomed within the walls of this restaurant, and we cherish the relationships that have grown from friendship into family. The joy of watching so many children grow from babies to adults in our restaurant—it truly touches our hearts. Now, as a family, we’re ready to experience the simple pleasure of enjoying a meal together on the other side of the table.

We are excited to announce that Dan Zweifel with his wonderful wife Diana, children Madison, Evan, Isabel and Zaylee will be taking over the business. With their shared commitment to service and community values, we are confident the Zweifel family will carry forward our legacy of care and dedication. Dan’s passion and vision bring new ideas that will continue to grow and honor the foundation we’ve built together.

We are deeply grateful for the privilege of serving you over the years. As we pass the torch, we’re excited to see the business thrive under new leadership and hope you’ll extend the same warmth and support to Dan and his family that you’ve so generously given us.

With deepest gratitude,
The Papapanos Family – Christo, Roula, Kyriakos & Ellie, Theo & Lynette, and all five grandchildren – Christos, Dimitri, Maria, Aria and Alexander.

Coming Soon: Dave’s Hot Chicken in Starkey Ranch

10 Dec

The fried chicken craze sweeping Tampa and St. Petersburg is now making its way to Pasco County. The area will soon welcome its third Dave’s Hot Chicken location, according to franchise co-owner Ian Liberman, who shared the news with Creative Loafing Tampa Bay.

Liberman and his brother Adam, who also own several local Fuzzy’s Taco Shop franchises, previously announced plans to bring eight Dave’s Hot Chicken locations to the Tampa Bay area. The new Pasco County restaurant, located at 13446 Pine Gap Spur in Starkey Ranch, is slated to open in April 2025.

This latest location will join two existing Dave’s Hot Chicken restaurants in Tampa. The first opened in July 2023 on Fowler Avenue near the University of South Florida. A second location followed less than a year later, opening at 2961 N Dale Mabry Highway, just south of Raymond James Stadium.

Dave’s Hot Chicken has seen rapid growth, now boasting 14 locations throughout Florida, according to its official website.

The menu features seven spice levels, culminating in the infamous “Reaper,” which comes with a bold disclaimer: “(Yes it is hot!) Eat it at your own risk.” Guests can try the Reaper spice on tenders, bites, or sliders. For those seeking relief from the heat, Dave’s also offers indulgent milkshakes in flavors like Oreo, M&M, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

With its continued expansion, Dave’s Hot Chicken is solidifying its presence as a favorite among spicy chicken enthusiasts in the Sunshine State.

Grand Opening: Pizza World of Odessa

4 Dec

Pizza World Celebrates Grand Opening of New Odessa, Florida Location

Pizza World is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location in Odessa, Florida, located at 2328 Gunn Highway. Known for its commitment to quality and a menu brimming with flavor, Pizza World is bringing its signature gourmet pizzas and more to the Odessa community.

The new location showcases Pizza World’s diverse menu, featuring crowd-pleasers such as:

  • Appondanza: A pizza packed with flavor, combining pepperoni, beef, pork sausage, Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, salami, bacon, mushrooms, olives, onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
  • Meat Grande: A feast for meat lovers, loaded with bacon, beef, Canadian bacon, ham, Italian sausage, mozzarella, pepperoni, pork sausage, and salami.
  • Ciao Bella: A vegetarian delight topped with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and mozzarella.

In addition to their iconic pizzas, the menu also includes an array of delicious options such as wings, subs, pasta, salads, calzones, appetizers, and desserts, ensuring something for every taste.

To mark the occasion, Pizza World is offering exclusive grand opening promotions and discounts at the Odessa location. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of online ordering through Pizza World’s website or mobile app, making it easier than ever to enjoy their favorite dishes.

Pizza World warmly invites the Odessa community to join the celebration, explore the menu, and experience their dedication to fresh ingredients and exceptional service.

For more details or to place an order, visit pizzaworldonline.com. Welcome to Pizza World Odessa—where great food brings people together!

Breaking News: 800+ Acre Sports Complex Coming To Trinity?

28 Nov

Storyland Studios Unveils Controversial Plans to Create America’s Largest Sports Entertainment Destination in Florida

Transforming Trinity, Florida into the Nation’s Premier Sports and Lifestyle Community

Storyland Studios has announced an ambitious project to transform nearly 800 acres in Pasco County, Florida, into the largest sports entertainment destination in the United States. Unveiled at the IAAPA 2024 Expo in Orlando, this groundbreaking development—dubbed “Trinity”—is set to redefine the North Tampa community as Florida’s “Sports Coast.”

Blending sports, arts, and health-focused amenities, the project promises to deliver a sustainable lifestyle community designed to attract athletes, teams, families, and fans nationwide.

A Vision for the Future

The Trinity project will feature a mix of indoor and outdoor sports facilities, including state-of-the-art stadiums, arenas, and recreational spaces, complemented by hotels, retail centers, restaurants, medical facilities, and residential areas. At six-and-a-half times the size of Disney Springs in Orlando, the project is poised to be a transformative hub for sports, entertainment, and community engagement.

“A story is waiting to be shared here by athletes, coaches, teams, and the families who will gather on these acres from across the country,” said Matt Ferguson, Chief Innovation Officer at Storyland Studios. “With world-class facilities, this destination will inspire dreams and create lifelong memories for all who come to compete, train, or play here.”

Comprehensive Development for a Thriving Community

The Trinity Development Initiative, Inc. (TDI) is partnering with Storyland Studios to design a community that integrates sports entertainment, arts, and health-conscious living. This expansive project will include a professional soccer stadium, a 7,500-seat baseball stadium, a multi-field training complex, an ice arena with five regulation rinks, and a basketball arena. Additionally, an outdoor adventure park and a performing arts center will draw visitors year-round for tournaments, performances, and recreational activities.

“This community has a deep love for sports and the arts, but currently lacks nearby facilities to support those passions,” said Johnny Scott, CEO of TDI and Lead Pastor of Generations Christian Church . “Our goal is to provide world-class amenities, from shops and restaurants to training facilities and performance venues, creating a vibrant, multi-use destination where people can live, work, and play.”

A Commitment to Sustainability

The Trinity project emphasizes environmental responsibility and sustainable development. The initiative aims to be carbon-neutral, with renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and thoughtful landscaping to preserve the natural beauty of Pasco County. “This project is a gift to our community, and we are committed to protecting and enhancing the region’s resources while welcoming visitors from around the world,” Scott added.

Driving Economic Growth and Community Engagement

The project is designed to strengthen Pasco County’s infrastructure while minimizing demands on existing resources. By funding new roads, water systems, and power solutions, Trinity will serve as an integrated partner in the region’s growth, offering long-term benefits for residents and businesses alike.

“This development is more than just a destination—it’s an opportunity to inspire, connect, and uplift a community,” said Mel McGowan, Chief Creative Officer at Storyland Studios. “Through intentional design and a focus on sports, arts, and wellness, Trinity will become a place where lives are transformed and unforgettable experiences are created.”

Mixed Reactions from Trinity Residents Over Proposed Sports Complex

The announcement of the massive Trinity Sports Complex, touted as America’s largest sports entertainment destination, has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among residents of Trinity, Florida. While some community members are excited about the potential economic benefits and enhanced recreational opportunities, a significant portion has voiced strong concerns over the project’s impact on local infrastructure, wildlife, and overall quality of life.

Residents critical of the development cite the area’s existing struggles with traffic congestion and limited infrastructure as key issues. “Our roads are already overwhelmed, and this project will only make it worse,” said local resident Maria Stevens. “Without a serious investment in roadways, public transit, and utilities, this development will disrupt our daily lives.”

Environmental concerns also dominate the conversation, with many worried about the potential destruction of wildlife habitats across the nearly 800-acre site. “This area is home to diverse wildlife that makes Trinity special,” said environmental advocate Paul Hanson. “Paving over natural spaces for a complex of this size will have irreversible consequences for the ecosystem.”

The scale of the project—six-and-a-half times the size of Disney Springs—has also raised questions about how the community will handle the influx of visitors, particularly during tournaments and events. “The charm of Trinity is its quiet, suburban feel,” said local business owner Emily Carter. “Turning it into a tourist hub could change the character of our town forever.”

Proponents of the complex argue that it will bring jobs, boost local businesses, and position Trinity as a premier destination in Florida’s burgeoning “Sports Coast” region. However, critics insist that these benefits cannot come at the expense of long-term sustainability and community well-being.

Developers at the Trinity Development Initiative (TDI) have promised to address these concerns by funding infrastructure improvements and incorporating environmentally conscious practices into the design. Still, for many residents, these assurances feel insufficient. “We’ve heard promises like this before,” said resident David Ortega. “What guarantees do we have that they’ll follow through?”

As plans for the complex progress, Trinity’s community remains divided. Many hope for further engagement with developers to ensure that the voices of concerned residents are heard and that the project’s impact is carefully managed.

Facebook Community Group Trinity Chat Feedback can be found here.

About Storyland Studios

Storyland Studios is an innovative experience design firm with expertise in creating immersive environments that inspire and connect. With team members who previously worked for Disney, Universal, Pixar, and LEGOLAND®, Storyland Studios delivers world-class storytelling and design. Learn more at storylandstudios.com.

About IAAPA

IAAPA is the global trade association for the attractions industry, representing professionals from theme parks, water parks, zoos, aquariums, and more. Founded in 1918, IAAPA connects industry leaders and promotes excellence in safety and innovation. Visit IAAPA.org for more information.

About Trinity Development Initiative

Trinity Development Initiative, Inc. is spearheading the nation’s largest sports and lifestyle community in Trinity, Florida, just north of Tampa. Dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and community impact, TDI is redefining the region’s identity as Florida’s “Sports Coast.” Lead Pastor Johnny Scott of neighboring property owner Generations Christian Church is the CEO of the Trinity Development Initiative. 

Information for this story was sourced from the website of Storyland Studios.