Tag: Odessa

Grand Opening: New Chick-fil-A Opens Its Doors in Odessa in Starkey Ranch

Posted on by Jay Thomas

New Chick-fil-A Opens Its Doors in Odessa: A Welcome Addition to the Growing Community

Excitement filled the air on October 4, 2025, as Odessa welcomed its newest Chick-fil-A location at the corner of State Road 54 and Gunn Highway—a highly anticipated addition serving the bustling Starkey Ranch and Trinity communities.

The grand opening celebration kicked off bright and early at 6 a.m., marking a milestone for the rapidly expanding area that has seen tremendous residential and commercial growth in recent years. This new location brings approximately 100 new jobs to the local economy and promises to deliver the exceptional service and quality food that has made Chick-fil-A a beloved brand nationwide.

Meet Your Local Owner-Operator

Josh Ragsdale has been selected as the local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A Odessa, bringing his commitment to hospitality and community care to the area. “Our mission is simple – to care for every Guest and Team Member with genuine hospitality and excellence,” Ragsdale shared. “We’re excited to serve the Odessa community and look forward to making this restaurant a place where people feel valued each time they walk through our doors.”

Opening Day Festivities

In true Chick-fil-A fashion, the grand opening featured the chain’s iconic “Cows Eat Free” promotion. Guests of all ages who showed up in cow attire—whether a full costume or simple cow-spotted accessories—received a complimentary entrée or kid’s meal. The fun, family-friendly celebration created a festive atmosphere and gave local residents their first taste of what promises to be a community gathering spot for years to come.

Giving Back from Day One

Ragsdale and his team demonstrated their commitment to the community right out of the gate with a generous $25,000 donation to Feeding Tampa Bay, a Feeding America partner food bank. This contribution will support local hunger relief efforts, making an immediate positive impact on families in need throughout the area.

The restaurant will also participate in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program, which redirects surplus food to local nonprofits. This nationwide initiative has helped create over 35 million meals to date, and the Odessa location will continue this tradition of fighting food insecurity in the Tampa Bay region.

Convenience Meets Quality

Located at 13402 State Road 54, the new restaurant is perfectly positioned to serve residents of Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and surrounding neighborhoods. The location offers multiple ordering options to fit every lifestyle, including dine-in service, drive-thru, carry-out, delivery, catering, and Mobile Thru for those on the go.

Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it convenient for breakfast on your morning commute, a quick lunch break, or dinner with the family.

More Than Just Great Chicken

While Chick-fil-A is famous for its original Chicken Sandwich, the menu offers something for everyone—from the Egg White Grill and Chick-n-Minis for breakfast enthusiasts to Grilled Nuggets and fresh salads for health-conscious diners. Every meal is prepared with real, whole chicken breast and fresh produce, sourced with care and prepared throughout the day.

But what truly sets Chick-fil-A apart is the signature hospitality that has become synonymous with the brand. That warm welcome, friendly service, and genuine care for customers creates an experience that goes beyond fast food.

A Perfect Fit for Growing Communities

The timing of this opening couldn’t be better for the Starkey Ranch and Trinity areas, which have experienced explosive growth as more families discover the appeal of this part of Pasco County. With new schools, shopping centers, and residential developments transforming the landscape, having a reliable, family-friendly restaurant option adds to the area’s appeal and convenience.

For families juggling school pickups, sports practices, and busy schedules, this Chick-fil-A location offers a welcome solution for those nights when cooking at home just isn’t in the cards.

Get Connected

Want to stay up to date with special promotions, community events, and restaurant news? Follow Chick-fil-A Odessa on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. You can also visit their website to explore career opportunities—the restaurant is always looking for enthusiastic team members who want to be part of something special.

Welcome to the Neighborhood

The opening of Chick-fil-A at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway represents more than just a new restaurant—it’s a sign of the continued growth and vitality of the Odessa area. With its commitment to quality food, outstanding service, and community involvement, this location is poised to become a neighborhood favorite.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, stop by and experience the hospitality that has made Chick-fil-A one of America’s most beloved restaurant chains. The team at Chick-fil-A Odessa is ready to serve you with a smile—and maybe even a “my pleasure.”

Chick-fil-A Odessa is located at 13402 State Road 54, Odessa, FL 33556. For more information, visit chick-fil-a.com or follow the restaurant on social media.

Yoga Returns to Starkey Ranch This September with Abby!

Posted on by Jay Thomas

We are so excited to start yoga again in September! Please review everything as we have made some changes to the classes offered, times, and pricing.

Free Introductory Class

Kick off the month with a complimentary yoga session to welcome everyone back to the practice.

Date: September 4, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 7:15 PM

Chair Yoga Sessions

Perfect for all fitness levels and those who prefer seated modifications, chair yoga offers gentle stretches and mindful movement.

Dates: September 2 & 16
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
Cost: $12 per class

Mat Yoga Sessions

Traditional mat-based yoga classes focusing on strength, flexibility, and relaxation.

Dates: September 11, 18 & 25
Time: 6:00 – 7:15 PM
Cost: $12 per class

Event Details

Location: Cunningham Hall
Instructor: Abby
RSVP Required: Please email [email protected] to reserve your spot

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to reconnect with your yoga practice and join our welcoming community. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced practitioner, Abby’s classes offer something for everyone. Mark your calendars and we’ll see you on the mat!

Event: Living with Alligators – A Wildlife Seminar at Starkey Ranch

Posted on by Jay Thomas

Wildlife Seminar: Living with Alligators

It’s Time for Gator Talk – You Don’t Want to Miss This!

Head on over to the Welcome Center to see Gator Rick give another amazing presentation on living amongst alligators!

Join Rick Vetter, known as “Gator Rick,” for an educational and engaging seminar about Florida’s most iconic reptile. This informative session will provide valuable insights into safely coexisting with alligators in our Florida community.

Event Details

Presenter: Rick Vetter “Gator Rick”
Date: Saturday, September 20th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Welcome Center

Whether you’re new to Florida or a longtime resident, this seminar offers essential knowledge about alligator behavior, safety protocols, and best practices for living in alligator territory. Rick’s expertise and engaging presentation style make this both an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.

RSVP Required: Please email [email protected] to reserve your spot.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of Florida’s most knowledgeable wildlife experts. Come prepared with your questions and discover how to confidently and safely share our beautiful natural environment with these fascinating creatures!

Starkey Cares: Pickleball Tournament

Posted on by Jay Thomas

🏓 Get Ready to Rally for a Cause at the Starkey Cares Charity Pickleball Tournament!

Mark your calendars and grab your paddles! The Starkey Cares Charity Pickleball Tournament is happening May 18, 2025 at Tampa Bay Pickleball, located at 180 Racetrack Rd, Oldsmar, FL — and it’s going to be an event to remember.

Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned pro, there’s a place for you on the court. Beginners can enjoy an instructional session and round-robin games from 2–3 PM ($40 entry), while intermediate and advanced players will battle it out in the tournament from 3–6 PM ($65 entry). All participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt and enjoy complimentary refreshments throughout the day!

This event isn’t just about fun and games — it’s a chance to make a real impact. All proceeds support Starkey Cares, a local organization dedicated to helping families in need across our community.

While waiting between matches, explore our raffle baskets filled with premium pickleball gear, snack on some treats, and connect with fellow players and supporters. Winners will be awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals at 6 PM, so bring your A-game!

🟡 Sign up by Friday to guarantee your spot and snag your t-shirt!
📧 Questions? Contact us at [email protected]
📍 Learn more at facebook.com/starkey.cares

👉 Click HERE to register now and be part of this fantastic cause.
Let’s play for something bigger. Let’s play for Starkey Cares.

Grand Opening: Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital

Posted on by Jay Thomas

Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital: Grand Opening on December 30th

 

The residents of Odessa, Starkey Ranch, and Trinity, Florida, have reason to celebrate as a state-of-the-art healthcare facility opens its doors to the community. On December 30th, the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital, located at 2253 Heart Pine Avenue, Odessa, FL 33556, will officially welcome patients, providing top-notch medical care tailored to the growing needs of the region.

About the Facility

This new healthcare hub offers a full-service emergency room designed to deliver rapid, expert care for various medical needs. From minor injuries to critical health situations, the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and staffed by a team of skilled medical professionals. The facility is operational 24/7, ensuring residents have access to immediate care when it’s needed most.

Patients can expect shorter wait times compared to larger hospitals, along with personalized attention in a welcoming environment. The hospital also features private patient rooms, advanced imaging services, and comprehensive diagnostic testing, making it a one-stop destination for emergency and specialty care.

A Commitment to Community Health

The Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital is part of the Nutex Health network, a trusted leader in the healthcare industry. Founded in 2011, Nutex Health specializes in innovative, patient-centered care solutions. With over 20 facilities nationwide, Nutex Health is dedicated to redefining how emergency services are delivered, focusing on quality, efficiency, and patient satisfaction.

By opening this facility in Odessa, Nutex Health aims to address the growing healthcare needs of the Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and Odessa communities. As these areas continue to expand, the hospital is well-positioned to support families, seniors, and individuals with accessible and compassionate care.

Serving Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and Odessa

The location of the hospital at the heart of the Starkey Ranch development underscores its commitment to serving the local population. With its convenient placement near major residential communities, residents no longer need to travel long distances for emergency care.

Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital is strategically positioned to serve:

  • Starkey Ranch: A rapidly growing community of families and active adults.
  • Trinity: A bustling area known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and thriving local businesses.
  • Odessa: A region combining suburban charm with a commitment to growth and development.

The hospital’s presence will undoubtedly enhance the quality of life for residents, providing peace of mind that top-tier healthcare is just moments away.

Join the Grand Opening Celebration

Community members are encouraged to visit the new facility on December 30th to learn more about the services and meet the team dedicated to their health and well-being. This milestone represents a significant investment in the community, ensuring that high-quality healthcare is accessible to everyone in the region.

For more information about the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital and its services, visit their website at starkeyranchhospital.com.

With the Starkey Ranch Emergency Room & Hospital, the future of healthcare in Starkey Ranch, Trinity, and Odessa looks brighter than ever.

Grand Opening: Farm to Taco in Trinity

Posted on by Jay Thomas

Farm to Taco: Trinity’s New Hotspot for Fresh, Flavorful Eats

Attention Starkey Ranch residents! There’s a delicious new addition to the local dining scene, and it’s just minutes from your neighborhood. Farm to Taco, located at 10700 State Road 54, Suite D-104 in Trinity, Florida, is now open and ready to impress with its commitment to fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Expect

Farm to Taco lives up to its name by offering a truly farm-to-table experience. This casual, family-friendly restaurant focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft tacos, bowls, and other delicious dishes bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner spot, Farm to Taco provides an inviting setting with rustic decor, vibrant colors, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends.

Menu Highlights

Farm to Taco’s menu has something for everyone, from adventurous foodies to picky eaters. Here are just a few highlights to tempt your taste buds: 

  • 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. It is served with a Lime Wedge and a side of Beef Consommé for Dipping and is Garnished with Diced White Onion and Fresh Cilantro. The bowl 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 Tortillas topped with Dolce De Leche, Fresh Strawberries, and House-made Whipped Cream

  • Kid-Friendly Options: Farm to Taco also caters to younger diners with kid-approved choices like simple tacos and cheesy quesadillas.

You can browse the full menu and even order online at Farm to Taco’s menu page.

Hours and Location

Farm to Taco is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., making it a great option for lunch, dinner, or an early evening bite. Conveniently situated near Starkey Ranch, it’s an easy trip for residents looking to explore exciting new dining options close to home.

Why Starkey Ranch Residents Will Love It

The Starkey Ranch community is known for its appreciation of high-quality, locally sourced products, and Farm to Taco fits right in with this ethos. Whether you’re grabbing a meal after a day at the Starkey Ranch District Park or looking for a new spot to gather with friends, Farm to Taco delivers a dining experience that’s both fresh and flavorful.

For more information, visit Farm to Taco’s website. Support local and treat yourself to an unforgettable meal today!

Breaking News: Christo’s Family Restaurant Sold!

Posted on by Jay Thomas

Christo’s Family Restaurant Changes Hands: Welcoming New Owners, the Zweifel Family

After years of serving delicious food and creating lasting memories in the heart of Trinity, Christo’s Family Restaurant is transitioning to new ownership. The beloved local eatery, a staple in the community, has been sold to Dan Zweifel and his family, longtime residents of the nearby Starkey Ranch Community.

The Christo family, known for their warm hospitality and commitment to quality, shared the news with the community in an open letter. Here is their heartfelt message:

A Letter from the Christo Family Restaurant’s Owners

Dear Trinity 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.

 

The Zweifel family, known for their deep roots in the Starkey Ranch Community, is eager to continue serving the Trinity area while honoring the traditions that have made Christo’s a cherished establishment. Dan Zweifel expressed his excitement, saying:

“We are honored to take over such a beloved restaurant. Our family is committed to maintaining the welcoming atmosphere and high standards that the Christos have established while also introducing fresh ideas to enhance the dining experience for everyone.”

Christo’s Family Restaurant will remain open during the transition, ensuring that customers can continue to enjoy their favorite dishes. The Zweifel family has also hinted at future updates and specials designed to bring a fresh energy to the menu while staying true to its roots.

The Trinity community welcomes this new chapter and looks forward to the continued success of Christo’s under its new stewardship. As one family’s journey ends and another begins, the spirit of togetherness that defines Christo’s remains steadfast.

Stay tuned for updates from the Zweifel family as they settle into their new role, and be sure to stop by Christo’s to show your support during this exciting time of change.

For more information or to share your thoughts about the change, visit Christo’s Family Restaurant in Trinity, Florida, and meet the Zweifel family in person.

Christo’s Family Restaurant is located at 3136 Little Road in Trinity, just down the road from the Starkey Ranch Community. They can be reached at 727-376-4082. Their hours are Monday-Saturday: 7 am to 3 pm and Sunday: 7 am to 2:30 pm

Grand Opening: Pizza World of Odessa

Posted on by Jay Thomas
 
Pizza World is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest location in Odessa, Florida, at 2328 Gunn Highway. This expansion brings their renowned gourmet pizzas to the Odessa community, offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes.

The Odessa location features Pizza World’s signature gourmet pizzas, including:

  • Appondanza: A hearty combination of pepperoni, beef, pork sausage, Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, salami, bacon, mushrooms, olives, onion, green peppers, tomato, and mozzarella.

  • Meat Grande: A meat lover’s delight with bacon, beef, Canadian bacon, ham, Italian sausage, mozzarella, pepperoni, pork sausage, and salami.

  • Ciao Bella: A vegetarian option topped with fresh basil, fresh garlic, mozzarella, olive oil, and tomatoes.

In addition to pizzas, the menu includes wings, subs, pasta, salads, calzones, appetizers, and desserts, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

To celebrate the opening, Pizza World is offering special promotions and discounts exclusive to the Odessa location. Customers can also enjoy the convenience of online ordering through their website or mobile app, making it easy to savor their favorite dishes at home.

Pizza World invites the Odessa community to join in the grand opening festivities and experience their commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional service. For more information or to place an order, visit pizzaworldonline.com.

Grand Opening: Lowe’s of Starkey Ranch

Posted on by Jay Thomas

New Lowe’s Store Opening on November 1st at 2317 Gunn Highway in Odessa, Florida

ODESSA, FL — The Odessa community is about to welcome a brand-new Lowe’s store, conveniently located at 2317 Gunn Highway, on the corner of Gunn Highway and State Road 54. The official grand opening will take place on November 1st, 2024, providing residents with easy access to all the home improvement products and services they need. Situated directly across from the bustling Starkey Ranch Community, this new Lowe’s location is set to become a hub for both local homeowners and professionals alike.

About Lowe’s

Lowe’s, a Fortune 50 home improvement company, has been serving customers for over 100 years. Known for its wide array of products and services, Lowe’s offers everything from hardware, tools, and building materials to appliances, outdoor equipment, and home décor. With a strong reputation for customer service and DIY expertise, Lowe’s remains the go-to store for home improvement professionals and weekend project enthusiasts.

Lowe’s commitment to community engagement and sustainability is well-known, with initiatives to improve energy efficiency, promote eco-friendly products, and support local communities through job creation and charitable programs. The opening of this new location in Odessa underscores Lowe’s dedication to expanding its presence in Florida’s growing neighborhoods.

Convenient Location for the Odessa Community

The Odessa store’s prime location on the corner of Gunn Highway and State Road 54 is expected to be a major convenience for nearby residents. It’s located right across from Starkey Ranch Community, one of the fastest-growing master-planned developments in the area, known for its mix of residential homes, parks, and nature preserves. Homeowners and builders from the community will now have a shorter trip to access a wide variety of home improvement supplies, tools, and expert advice.

What to Expect from the New Store

Lowe’s Odessa store will offer a comprehensive shopping experience, with a variety of departments such as:

  • Lumber & Building Materials: Perfect for contractors and DIYers tackling construction projects.
  • Appliances: Featuring a selection of the latest energy-efficient models for kitchen and laundry upgrades.
  • Outdoor & Garden Center: Stocked with plants, patio furniture, and everything needed to create the perfect outdoor oasis.
  • Paint & Home Décor: A vast range of color options and design inspiration to refresh any room in your home.
  • Hardware & Tools: From hammers and drills to power tools, Lowe’s has everything you need to get the job done right.

Additionally, the store will include professional services such as key cutting, custom home installations, and in-store consultations for home projects big and small. With its dedicated team of knowledgeable associates, Lowe’s is ready to assist customers in finding solutions to their home improvement needs.

Community Impact

The opening of the Lowe’s Odessa store will not only make shopping more convenient for locals, but it will also contribute to the local economy by providing new job opportunities. The store is expected to employ over 150 associates, ranging from sales associates to specialists in departments such as electrical, plumbing, and kitchen remodeling. This addition to the community is likely to attract further development and increase business in the surrounding area.

Grand Opening Festivities

To celebrate its grand opening on November 1st, the Lowe’s Odessa store will host a series of events, including special discounts, product demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. Customers can expect exclusive promotions throughout the opening weekend. 

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, this new Lowe’s location in Odessa will be the ultimate one-stop shop for all your home improvement needs. Be sure to mark your calendar for November 3rd and stop by to explore all that the new Lowe’s has to offer!

Store Details:

  • Location: 2317 Gunn Highway, Odessa, FL 33556
  • Opening Date: November 1st, 2024
  • Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Sunday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

For more information, visit the Lowe’s website or contact the store directly by calling 813-547-7129.