Event: Free Community Food Distribution

5 Oct

🍎 FREE Community Food Distribution 🥖

Mark your calendars! The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with Pasco Sheriff’s Charities, Farm Share, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, The Gentlemen’s Course, and the Pasco County NAACP to bring FREE food to our community!

đź“… When: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

⏰ Time: 9 a.m. until food runs out

📍 Where: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 5326 Charles Street, New Port Richey, FL 34652

đźš— Drive-thru event – Rain or shine! đź›’ First come, first served – Arrive early!

Farm Share determines food selection and quantity. No registration required – just show up and receive fresh food for you and your family!

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with resources in our community. We look forward to seeing you there!

Farm Share, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider.

#PascoSheriff #CommunitySupport #FreeFoodDistribution #PascoCounty #NewPortRichey

Grand Opening: Chick-fil-a at Starkey Ranch in Odessa

1 Oct

Odessa Celebrates Arrival of New Chick-fil-A at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway

The Starkey Ranch and Trinity communities gained a highly anticipated dining destination on October 4, 2025, when Chick-fil-A opened its newest location in Odessa, bringing signature hospitality and quality food to this rapidly growing area.

Early risers who arrived at 6 a.m. for the grand opening were treated to festive celebrations and the chance to experience firsthand what makes this restaurant chain a national favorite. With the intersection of State Road 54 and Gunn Highway continuing to develop as a commercial hub, this addition strengthens the area’s appeal for residents and visitors alike.

Community Leadership with Josh Ragsdale

At the helm of this new restaurant is Josh Ragsdale, chosen by Chick-fil-A, Inc. as the local Owner-Operator. Ragsdale brings a vision centered on creating meaningful connections with every person who walks through the doors. His approach emphasizes genuine care for both guests and the team members who will serve them, promising an experience that goes beyond a typical restaurant visit.

“We look forward to making this restaurant a place where people feel valued each time they walk through our doors,” Ragsdale noted, setting the tone for what diners can expect from this location.

Grand Opening Celebration

The launch festivities embraced Chick-fil-A’s playful brand personality with an invitation for guests to don their best cow costumes or accessories. Those who arrived sporting spots were rewarded with complimentary entrĂ©es or kid’s meals—a fun tradition that brought families together and created memorable moments for the community.

The lighthearted promotion showcased the restaurant’s commitment to creating experiences that appeal to guests of all ages, from toddlers in cow-print shirts to adults fully embracing the bovine theme.

Making an Impact Through Philanthropy

Before serving its first sandwich, the new Odessa location made waves with its charitable commitment. A substantial $25,000 donation was directed to Feeding Tampa Bay, addressing food insecurity throughout the region. This Feeding America partner organization works tirelessly to ensure that families in need have access to nutritious meals, making this contribution particularly meaningful.

Beyond the opening day donation, the restaurant joins the Chick-fil-A Shared Table initiative. This program has proven remarkably effective nationwide, transforming surplus food into more than 35 million meals for those facing hunger. Local nonprofit organizations will benefit from this ongoing commitment to reducing food waste while addressing a critical community need.

What’s on the Menu

Food lovers can look forward to the full Chick-fil-A experience, starting with the legendary original Chicken Sandwich that put the brand on the map. Morning visitors will find breakfast favorites like the Egg White Grill and Chick-n-Minis, perfect for fueling up before a busy day.

The menu caters to diverse preferences and dietary needs, featuring Grilled Nuggets for health-conscious diners, fresh salads made with quality ingredients, and classic favorites like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich. Every item is prepared using real, whole chicken breast and produce selected for freshness and quality.

Designed for Modern Convenience

Recognizing that today’s families juggle packed schedules, the restaurant at 13402 State Road 54 offers flexibility in how guests order and receive their meals. Traditional dine-in service provides a comfortable space for families and friends to gather, while the drive-thru accommodates those pressed for time.

Mobile Thru technology allows tech-savvy customers to place orders ahead and pick them up seamlessly, while delivery service brings Chick-fil-A quality directly to homes and offices. Catering options make it easy to feed groups for meetings, parties, or special events.

The restaurant welcomes guests six days a week, opening at 6 a.m. and continuing service until 10 p.m., ensuring accessibility whether you need an early breakfast or a late dinner.

Strategic Location Serves Growing Region

The placement of this restaurant couldn’t be more strategic for the booming residential areas of Starkey Ranch and Trinity. As these communities continue to expand with new homes, schools, and amenities, having trusted dining options becomes increasingly important for residents who have chosen to make this area their home.

The intersection of State Road 54 and Gunn Highway has emerged as a key commercial corridor, and this Chick-fil-A location adds to the growing list of conveniences that make the area attractive to both current residents and prospective homebuyers.

The Chick-fil-A Difference

What separates Chick-fil-A from other quick-service restaurants extends beyond menu items. The brand has built its reputation on creating positive interactions through attentive service and a culture that values each customer. Team members are known for their friendly demeanor and willingness to go the extra mile—qualities that Ragsdale plans to cultivate at this location.

This commitment to hospitality has earned Chick-fil-A consistently high ratings in customer satisfaction surveys and created loyal fans who appreciate being treated with respect and warmth during every visit.

Join the Community

Stay informed about special offers, local events, and news by connecting with Chick-fil-A Odessa through their social media channels on Facebook and Instagram. These platforms provide a direct line to announcements about promotions and ways the restaurant engages with the community.

Those interested in employment opportunities can explore openings through the restaurant’s website. With approximately 100 positions created by this location, job seekers will find opportunities to join a team that values growth, leadership development, and creating positive customer experiences.

Looking Ahead

As the Odessa area continues its transformation from suburban community to thriving commercial and residential destination, the arrival of Chick-fil-A represents another chapter in that growth story. The restaurant stands ready to serve families rushing to soccer practice, professionals grabbing lunch between meetings, and everyone in between.

With its foundation built on quality food, exceptional service, and active community involvement, this location is positioned to become woven into the fabric of daily life for Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Stop by and discover why Chick-fil-A has earned its place as one of America’s favorite restaurant chains. The team is ready to welcome you with open arms and that signature phrase: “my pleasure.”


Find Chick-fil-A Odessa at 13402 State Road 54, Odessa, FL 33556. Learn more at chick-fil-a.com or connect via social media.

Breaking News: FlameStone Grill in Trinity Is Closing

3 Aug

🚨 BREAKING: FlameStone American Grill Trinity Location Closes Permanently 🚨

FlameStone American Grill in Trinity has announced it is permanently closing its doors effective immediately after 8 years of operation.

In a farewell message to customers, the restaurant expressed gratitude to guests and staff, stating that their “support, laughter, and shared memories made every moment worthwhile.” The establishment served the community through various occasions from first dates to family dinners and celebrations.

The Trinity location’s closure does not affect the Oldsmar location, which remains open for business. Gift cards from the Trinity location can still be redeemed at the Oldsmar restaurant.

Oldsmar Location Contact: 813.814.7778

This marks the end of an era for the Trinity dining scene as FlameStone concludes its 8-year run in the area.

Starkey Ranch ER & Hospital – Teddy Bear Clinic

13 Jul

Starkey Ranch ER & Hospital Hosts Inaugural Teddy Bear Clinic for Young Patients

Starkey Ranch ER & Hospital is bringing healthcare education to life with their first-ever Teddy Bear Clinic, designed to help children overcome medical anxieties while having fun with their favorite stuffed companions.

The special event is scheduled for Saturday, July 26th, 2025, from 10 AM to 12 PM at the hospital’s location on 2253 Heart Pine Avenue in Odessa, Florida. This innovative program allows children to bring their beloved teddy bears and other stuffed animals to receive “medical treatment” from healthcare professionals, creating a positive and educational experience around medical care.

What Makes This Event Special

The Teddy Bear Clinic represents a creative approach to pediatric healthcare education. Children will have the opportunity to play doctor and help “rehabilitate” their stuffed animals under the guidance of medical professionals. This hands-on experience helps demystify medical procedures and equipment, making future healthcare visits less intimidating for young patients.

The program has already generated significant community interest, with organizers announcing that the inaugural event has reached full capacity. Parents who secured spots through the RSVP process can look forward to watching their children engage in this unique learning experience.

Community Response and Future Plans

The overwhelming response to Starkey Ranch ER & Hospital’s first Teddy Bear Clinic demonstrates the community’s enthusiasm for innovative pediatric healthcare programs. Hospital staff expressed excitement about welcoming children to their facility for this special educational opportunity.

For families who missed the chance to participate in this inaugural event, there’s good news on the horizon. Hospital organizers have confirmed that additional Teddy Bear Clinics will be scheduled in the future, ensuring more children in the Starkey Ranch and surrounding communities will have the opportunity to participate.

Parents who reserved spots for the July 26th event should prepare for a morning of learning, laughter, and teddy bear rehabilitation as Starkey Ranch ER & Hospital continues to build stronger connections with the families they serve.

The hospital’s commitment to community engagement and pediatric care education through programs like the Teddy Bear Clinic reflects their dedication to making healthcare more accessible and less frightening for their youngest patients.

Event: Free Food Distribution – July 9, 2025

1 Jul

Free Community Food Distribution – July 9, 2025

Join Us for a Drive-Thru Food Distribution Event

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce a free community food distribution event happening next week! This collaborative effort brings together multiple community organizations to support local families in need.

Event Details

đź“… Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM until food runs out
📍 Location: Refuge Church
5320 Palmetto Road, New Port Richey, FL 34652
đźš— Format: Drive-thru distribution (rain or shine!)

Important Information

  • First come, first served – arrive early to ensure availability
  • Drive-thru format for easy and safe distribution
  • Event continues until all food is distributed
  • All food selection and quantities are determined by Farm Share
  • Farm Share, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider

Community Partnership

This event is made possible through the incredible partnership of:

  • Pasco Sheriff’s Office
  • Pasco Sheriff’s Charities
  • Farm Share
  • Refuge Church
  • The Gentlemen’s Course
  • Pasco County NAACP

Why This Matters

Food insecurity affects many families in our community, and events like this provide crucial support to those who need it most. By working together, these organizations are making a real difference in the lives of local residents.

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office is proud to connect community members to this valuable resource. Events like these strengthen our community bonds and ensure that no one goes without access to nutritious food.

Getting There

Refuge Church is conveniently located on Palmetto Road in New Port Richey. The drive-thru format makes it easy for families to participate while maintaining safety and efficiency.

Questions?

For more information about this event or future food distribution opportunities, contact the Pasco Sheriff’s Office or visit the participating organizations’ websites.

Mark your calendars for July 9th and help us spread the word! Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors who might benefit from this community resource. Together, we can make sure everyone in our community has access to the food they need.

See you there!

 

Event: One Act Theater Festival – July 12-13 – Starkey Ranch TLC

19 Jun

Local Talent Takes Center Stage: Wesley Chapel Theater Group’s One-Act Festival Returns This July

The curtain is rising on an exciting theatrical experience as the Wesley Chapel Theater Group prepares to present their highly anticipated One-Act Festival. This summer showcase promises an unforgettable afternoon of entertainment, featuring six original short plays that highlight the incredible talent of local playwrights, directors, and actors.

A Celebration of Local Creativity

The One-Act Festival represents the best of community theater, bringing together diverse voices and stories that reflect our local creative spirit. Audiences will experience a rich tapestry of comedy and drama, with each play offering a unique perspective and theatrical style. From heartwarming moments to laugh-out-loud comedy, this festival has something for every theater lover.

Featured Productions

The festival lineup showcases six distinct plays, each crafted by talented local writers and brought to life by skilled directors:

A Rainy Night in Hollywood – Tom Erb’s atmospheric piece, directed by Rodney Bueno, promises to transport audiences to the golden age of cinema with its evocative storytelling.

ClichĂ© – Keith Whalen’s cleverly titled work, under the direction of Jade Ashlee Rivera, likely plays with theatrical conventions and audience expectations in delightfully unexpected ways.

Three Years – Samantha Sacasa’s intimate drama, directed by David Sparano, suggests a deep exploration of time, relationships, and personal growth.

Full Frontal Transparency – Jenna Jane’s bold creation, directed by Allan Anderson, hints at raw honesty and emotional revelation that will keep audiences engaged.

The Oatmeal – Robert Grogan’s intriguingly titled piece, brought to life by director Darrin Person, promises to find profound meaning in the seemingly mundane.

Love, Lost (Rings), and What We Wore – Jessica Burchfield both wrote and directed this production, offering a personal vision that explores themes of love, loss, and the objects that hold our memories.

What Makes One-Act Plays Special

One-act plays offer a unique theatrical experience, delivering complete stories in concentrated bursts of drama and emotion. Without intermissions to break the tension, these short works rely on tight writing, focused performances, and creative staging to create maximum impact. The format allows playwrights to experiment with bold concepts and innovative storytelling techniques while giving audiences the chance to experience multiple complete stories in a single evening.

Supporting Local Arts

By attending the One-Act Festival, theater-goers directly support the local arts community. These productions provide invaluable opportunities for emerging playwrights to see their work performed, give directors the chance to hone their craft, and offer actors the experience of bringing new characters to life. Community theater serves as the backbone of local culture, fostering creativity and bringing people together through shared storytelling.

Event Details

When: July 12-13, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Doors Open: 1:40 p.m.
Where: Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center
12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa, Florida 33556

Tickets: https://www.simpletix.com/e/wctg-presents-one-act-festival-2025-tickets-218617

The intimate setting of the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center provides the perfect venue for these short works, allowing for close connection between performers and audience members. The cozy atmosphere enhances the theatrical experience, making every seat feel like the best seat in the house.

Don’t Miss This Theatrical Gem

The Wesley Chapel Theater Group’s One-Act Festival represents everything wonderful about community theater: local talent, original stories, and the magic that happens when creative minds come together. Whether you’re a longtime theater enthusiast or someone looking to explore live performance for the first time, this festival offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to the world of local theater.

Mark your calendars for July 12-13, 2025, and prepare to be entertained, moved, and inspired by the incredible talent in our own backyard. With six different plays spanning comedy and drama, the One-Act Festival promises an afternoon of theatrical discovery that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next production from this talented group.

The Wesley Chapel Theater Group continues to prove that exceptional theater isn’t limited to major metropolitan areas – sometimes the most memorable performances happen right in our own community, created by the passionate artists who call this place home.

 

Event: Family Day at Starkey Ranch TLC

14 Jun

Free Family Fun Awaits at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 28th! The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center is hosting an incredible FREE Family Day packed with activities, entertainment, and excitement for the whole family from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

What Makes This Event Special?

This isn’t just another community event – it’s a full day of adventure designed to bring families together through hands-on experiences, educational exhibits, and pure fun. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it accessible for everyone in the community.

Hands-On Vehicle Adventures

The Touch-A-Truck experience features over 20 impressive vehicles that kids (and adults!) can explore up close. Get ready to climb aboard and discover:

  • Military tanks and vehicles
  • Fire trucks and emergency vehicles
  • Massive 18-wheelers
  • Construction equipment including bucket trucks and concrete mixers
  • Road graders and heavy machinery
  • And many more exciting vehicles!

This is a rare opportunity for children to see these powerful machines up close and learn about the important work they do in our community.

Educational Discovery at MAPS Museum

The MAPS Museum will be bringing fascinating exhibits featuring real dinosaur bones and other incredible displays. It’s a perfect chance for curious minds to explore natural history and spark an interest in science and discovery.

Bike Safety and Fun

Bring your family’s bikes for the Bike Obstacle Course – a safe and exciting way to practice cycling skills while having a blast. Even better, free bike helmets will be given away to ensure every rider stays safe on future adventures.

Delicious Treats and Refreshments

Nothing works up an appetite quite like a day of family fun! The event features:

  • Free hot dogs and drinks for all attendees
  • Snow cones for just $1 (with proceeds supporting the Starkey Ranch Friends of the Library)
  • All refreshments available while supplies last

Games, Prizes, and Entertainment

The excitement continues with free game booths where families can win prizes together. Plus, kids will love the Toy Story Short Toons screening on the big screen in the theatre, complete with:

  • 11:00 AM: Small Fry
  • 11:45 AM: Hawaiian Vacation

Each child attending the movie screenings will receive a free Toy Story toy, popcorn, and a drink – making it a complete entertainment experience.

Community Connection

This event represents the heart of what makes Starkey Ranch special – a community that comes together to create memorable experiences for families. The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center and Pasco County Libraries have organized this celebration as a way to strengthen community bonds while providing educational and entertaining opportunities for all ages.

Event Details at a Glance

When: Saturday, June 28th, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center
Cost: FREE admission
What to Bring: Your family, bikes for the obstacle course, and excitement for a day of fun!

Don’t Miss Out!

With activities ranging from educational exhibits to thrilling vehicle exploration, delicious food, entertaining movies, and exciting games, this Family Day promises something special for every member of your family.

Remember, all food, drinks, and prizes are available while supplies last, so arriving early ensures your family gets to experience everything this amazing event has to offer.

See you there for a day of unforgettable family memories at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center!

Trinity Community Health Fair – June 21st

8 Jun

Free Community Health Fair Coming to New Port Richey

The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County is hosting a Community Health Fair that offers valuable free health services to our local residents. This is a wonderful opportunity for Trinity, Odessa, and New Port Richey community members to prioritize their health and wellness.

Event Details

When: Saturday, June 21
Time: 9 a.m. to noon
Where: Moon Lake Park
8985 Lake Drive, New Port Richey

Free Health Screenings Available

The health fair will provide comprehensive FREE SCREENINGS to support your health, including:

  • Vision and blood pressure checks
  • Mammograms
  • Dental bus services
  • HIV and hepatitis C testing
  • Florida WIC Program eligibility information
  • Narcan distribution

Why Attend?

Community health fairs like this one provide accessible healthcare services right in our neighborhood. Whether you’re looking to stay on top of routine screenings, need dental care, or want to learn about available health programs, this event offers something for everyone in our community.

These types of preventive health services can help detect potential health issues early and connect residents with ongoing care resources. Plus, all services are provided at no cost to attendees.

Getting More Information

For additional details about the services offered or other health programs available in Pasco County, you can visit Pasco.FloridaHealth.gov or scan the QR code that will be available at the event.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 21, and take advantage of this opportunity to invest in your health and well-being. We’re fortunate to have organizations like the Florida Department of Health bringing these vital services directly to our community.

This event is open to all residents and represents the kind of community-focused healthcare initiatives that make our area a great place to live and thrive.

 

3D Mammography Screening at Starkey Ranch

7 May

Mobile 3D Mammography Screening at Starkey Ranch

Don’t wait—annual 3D mammography is one of the best ways to protect your health and catch breast cancer early. The Mobile 3D Mammography Bus is coming to Starkey Ranch, making it easier than ever to get screened close to home.

Event Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Where: Starkey Ranch Welcome Center
Address: 2500 Heart Pine Ave, Odessa, FL 33556

What to Expect

  • Quick, 10-minute screening appointments

  • Same-day results for added peace of mind

  • Exams are read by a fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologist

  • All insurance plans accepted

How to Reserve Your Spot

Book your screening today at: www.3dmobilemammography.com
Or call: 844-546-5871

Annual screenings save lives. Don’t miss this opportunity to take control of your health with the latest 3D mammogram technology—all from the comfort of your own community.

West Pasco Girls Fast Pitch Cornhole Tournament

23 Apr

Join Us for the 5th Annual West Pasco Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Association Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser & Festival!

Get ready for a day of fun, competition, and community spirit! The 5th Annual West Pasco Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Association (WPGFSA) Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser is set for April 27th, 2025, at 12 PM, hosted by Escape Brewing Company in Trinity, Florida.

📍 Location:
Escape Brewing Company
11495 Trinity Blvd, Trinity, FL 34655

This exciting event isn’t just about cornhole—it’s a full festival experience! Enjoy great craft beer, delicious food, and plenty of entertainment for the whole family. SWAG Party Rentals will be on-site with inflatables—just $10 for a wristband—providing endless fun for the kids starting at 11 AM and lasting until the end of the tournament.

🎯 Tournament Details:

  • Competitive & Amateur Divisions

  • Early Team Registration: $50 per team

  • Day-Of Registration: $60 per team

  • Check-In, Sign-Up & Practice: 11 AM – 12 PM

  • Tournament kicks off at 12 PM

Whether you’re a seasoned cornhole pro or just in it for fun, there’s a spot for everyone!

🎟️ How to Register:

Scan the QR code on the event flyer to register your team in advance and save!

đź’¬ More Information:

Looking for details on registration or sponsorship opportunities? Visit the WPGFSA Facebook page and check under the “Events” section:
👉 www.facebook.com/WPGFSA


Don’t miss out on a fantastic day of friendly competition, local brews, tasty eats, and family fun—all while supporting the West Pasco Girls Fast-Pitch Softball Association!

Grab your teammates, bring the family, and we’ll see you at Escape Brewing Company on April 27th!