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Good Morning Neighbors.
I don’t know if you saw what happened across the state but a Temple Terrace man was one of two people that were on a Beechcraft 55 aircraft that had to make an emergency landing on i95 this week. Both engines had failed and they actually landed on woman’s car. Thankfully everyone survived and the woman is still recovering from her injuries. I couldn’t imagine being in that car.
As most of the country deals with real winter weather, we’re getting our own little taste of it with temps dipping into the 40s. Over the next few days, expect lows in the mid-40s to mid-50s, but we’ll still catch some sunshine during the day, so there’s plenty of opportunity to take advantage of everything that’s going on.
We’ve got toy drives that will warm your heart, ugly sweaters that absolutely should’ve stayed in the attic, Santa popping up at every corner, Christmas markets packed with holiday magic, and even a festive puppet show to round it all out. Enjoy the weekend!
-Mike
In this edition of the North Tampa Buzz:
🍔 Portillo’s Set to Replace Rock & Brews in Wesley Chapel
🚧 Pasco County Launches Major Effort to Strengthen Storm-Ready Roads
🏡 Florida’s HOA Rules May See Their Biggest Overhaul Yet
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Share this with the with anyone who struggled with getting their Christmas lights up this year.
In The Santa Clause, what causes Scott Calvin to become Santa?
64 NTB subscribers out of 123 who voted had correctly guessed Snot as the family dog that cousin Eddie brings to the house in Christmas Vacation.
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Local Business
Portillo’s Is Officially on the Way to Wesley Chapel
Rock & Brews on State Road 56 is officially coming down, clearing the way for Wesley Chapel’s newest arrival, Portillo’s. The Chicago-based favorite is bringing its Italian beef, Chicago-style hot dogs, chargrilled burgers, and that famous chocolate cake to a brand-new 6,250-square-foot Restaurant of the Future design. The space will include indoor and patio seating, grab-and-go options, and double drive-thru lanes right in front of the Tampa Premium Outlets. No opening date yet, but it’s definitely one to look forward to.
Source: Tampa Beacon
Civic
Pasco County Takes a Hard Look at Storm-Ready Roads
There’s been a lot of talk lately about the strength of the ground beneath our feet, and Pasco County is finally giving it a closer look. After getting hit by two tropical storms last year, the county is studying nearly 2,000 miles of roadway to figure out which areas are most vulnerable. Planners and engineers are digging into everything from flooding and sinkholes to storm surge and wildfires so we can stay ahead of future problems. It’s a big project, but one that feels overdue for all of us who drive these roads every day.
The team will put together a long-term plan with recommendations for the next 5, 10, and 20 years, and commissioners are already flagging trouble spots like Little Road and parts of Hudson and New Port Richey. They also plan to bring in homeowners and the public through workshops and feedback sessions. If you’ve ever driven through rising water during a storm, you know how important this work is.
Community
Florida’s HOA Rules Might Be Getting a Major Shakeup
If you’ve ever felt stuck dealing with an HOA, you’re definitely not the only one. Lawmakers are taking notice, and a new bill in Tallahassee, HB 657, could completely change how HOA disputes are handled. It would create a dedicated community association court, make it easier for homeowners to challenge their HOA, and even outline a legal process for dissolving an HOA if a community ever chooses to go that route.
Gif by BenJammins on Giphy
The push for change is gaining steam after stories like one homeowner who said she has painted her house three times since 2015 just to keep up with demands. Supporters say the system needs a reset, while industry leaders feel better enforcement of existing rules is the real answer. The bill now heads to committee and will be a big topic once the legislative session opens in January.
If you live in an HOA neighborhood, this is definitely something to keep an eye on.
Compassionate Dementia Care Support in Wesley Chapel
Comfort Keepers of Pasco County is offering dedicated in-home care programs for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, helping families navigate the daily challenges that come with memory loss. Their caregivers focus on creating a calm, familiar environment while supporting seniors with routines, engaging activities, and meaningful companionship. Led by owner Tracy Kelley, the team aims to bring comfort to seniors and peace of mind to families, offering guidance, emotional support, and options for respite when caregivers need it most.
More from their site.
Pasco County Opens First Housing Community for Low-Income Veterans
Pasco County took a huge step toward ending veteran homelessness with the opening of Magnolia Oaks towards the west end of the county. This is the county’s first housing community built specifically for low-income veterans. The new development includes nearly 80 units, a community center, and a pool, all located less than two miles from the VA clinic on Little Road. Veterans like Samantha Vrbancic say stable housing has completely changed their lives, and Magnolia Oaks is designed to offer that same long-term stability to others as the county works toward its goal of functional zero homelessness.
Events
I hope this answers the question, “What is there to do around town without having to drive down to Tampa?”
Featured Event
Street Bash is getting a holiday makeover in Dade City with a night market, food trucks, music, and a toy drive to support local kids in need.
🎄 Quick Rundown
Who: Dade City Brew House + Rotary Club
What: Holiday Night Market & Toy Drive
When: Dec 12, 5–9 PM
Where: 14323 7th St, Dade City
Why: Help nearly 70 local children receive Christmas gifts
🎁 Highlights
Vendors, food trucks, live DJ
Kid zone and holiday fun
Bring new, unwrapped toys (games, art kits, sports gear, stuffed toys)
Live Music
Friday, December 12
Art's Tap House, New Port Richey | Swipe Right | 8–11 PM
Banana Wind Bar and Grill, Zephyrhills | Soul Circus Cowboys | 8–11:55 PM
Cigars International Superstore, Lutz | Live Music | 8–11:45 PM
Dade City Tap House & Spirits, Dade City | John Johnson | 8–11 PM
Double Bogeys Tavern & Grille, Lutz | Aurora 5 | 7–11 PM
Escape Brewing Company, Trinity | Jay Brown | 5–8 PM
Florida Cracker Fish Company, Tampa | Matthew McCartney | 7–10 PM
House of Brews, Lutz | Richie Hume | 6–9 PM
Jerry's Crystal Bar, Zephyrhills | Atomic Brew | 9 PM–1 AM
MDP Liquor 2.0 + The Drinks at 9 Bar & Grill, Lutz | Sunny Situation | 7–10 PM
North 30th Sports Pub & Grille USF, Tampa | 3-Dom Band | 7–11 PM
O'Brien's Irish Pub, Tampa | Life of the Party | 9 PM–1 AM
O'Brien's Irish Pub & Grill Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Lost Swamp Revival | 8–11:59 PM
Skipper’s Smokehouse, Tampa | Jah Movement | 8 PM
SouthernEaze Bar and Grill, Lutz | Joe Mongiardo | 6:30–9:30 PM
Starkey Market, Trinity | Lock & Key | 6–9 PM
Stonewater Grill, Land O' Lakes | 4X | 7–10 PM
The Brass Tap, Lutz | Live Music TBA | 7–10 PM
The Orpheum, Tampa | Rave Jesus | 8–11 PM
The Twisted Oak, Dade City | Mike Monts de Oca | 8–11 PM
Thomas Ps Sports Bar & Patio, Tampa | Brack Harris | 5–8 PM
Tiki Cove, Land O' Lakes | Rachel Duffin | 7–10 PM
Tom's Tavern (Forest Hills), Tampa | Maverick & Pasquini | 8–11 PM
Saturday, December 13
Art's Tap House, New Port Richey | Ginger Rose | 8–11 PM
Banana Wind Bar and Grill, Zephyrhills | The GrooveDiggers | 8–11:59 PM
BarrieHaus Beer Co Trinity, Trinity | Kip Kelly | 6–9 PM
Commandough's Pizza, Zephyrhills | Kyle Velez | 5–8 PM
Dade City Tap House & Spirits, Dade City | Kyle Velez | 9:30–11:59 PM
Double Bogeys Tavern & Grille, Lutz | Rivals & Villains | 7–11 PM
Escape Brewing Company, Trinity | Dreams Unwind | 5–8 PM
Florida Cracker Fish Company, Tampa | Jamie O | 7–10 PM
Happy Dayz, Dade City | Southern Knights Band | 9 PM–1 AM
House of Brews, Lutz | Richie Hume | 6–9 PM
Krate at the Grove, Wesley Chapel | Jazz & Jingles w/Tampa Bay Pride Band | 7–8:30 PM
Skipper’s Smokehouse, Tampa | Tophouse w/ Crowe Boys | 8–10 PM
SouthernEaze Bar and Grill, Lutz | Lou Menendez | 6:30–9:30 PM
Starkey Market, Trinity | Manny Sanfeliz & Tre Dicci | 6–9 PM
Stonewater Grill, Land O' Lakes | Roger and Todd | 7–10 PM
The Orpheum, Tampa | Emo Night Brooklyn | 8–11 PM
The Twisted Oak, Dade City | Ben Luchka | 8–11 PM
Tiki Cove, Land O' Lakes | Capt. Kirk | 7–10 PM
Tom's Tavern (Forest Hills), Tampa | Maverick & Pasquini | 8–11 PM
Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen, Tampa | Live Music Saturdays | 5–8 PM
Sunday, December 14
Skipper’s Smokehouse, Tampa | Acoustic Sunday Brunch w/ Beartoe | 1–4 PM
Starkey Market, Trinity | Kris Mikhel | 1–4 PM
Stonewater Grill, Land O' Lakes | JT Curtis | 5–8 PM
The Orpheum, Tampa | Agnostic Front | 6–11 PM
Tuesday, December 16
Ukulele Brand's, Land O' Lakes | Open Mic Night | 7–10 PM
Markets
Friday, December 12
Dade City Brew House, Dade City | Street Bash Night Market | 5–9 PM
McCall Park, Plant City | Jingle Jangle Market | 5–9 PM
The Hub at Bexley, Land O' Lakes | Moonlight Market | 5–9 PM
Saturday, December 13
2155 Northpointe Pkwy, Lutz | Lutz Crafter's Market – Indoor Christmas Market | 10 AM–3 PM
Boyette Family Farms, Wesley Chapel | Christmas Market | 10 AM–4 PM
Carrollwood Cultural Center, Tampa | Kids Market at the Carrollwood Market | 10 AM–2 PM
Masaryk Winery, Masaryktown | Christmas Market at Masaryk Winery | 10 AM–3 PM
Park at Carrollwood Cultural Center, Tampa | Carrollwood Market | 10 AM–2 PM
Pasco County Care Pavilion, Land O' Lakes | Advent Health Holiday Market 2025 – by Tampa Bay Markets | 10 AM–2 PM
Starkey Market, Trinity | Starkey Market's Annual Holiday Market | 11 AM–4 PM
Texas Roadhouse, Odessa | Texas Roadhouse Community Market | 10 AM–2 PM
Tiki Cove, Land O' Lakes | Ho Ho Ho Moon Market | 5–9 PM
Wesley Chapel – The Grove 16, Wesley Chapel | Market at the Movies | 4–5 PM
Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus, Wesley Chapel | Christmas Village at Wiregrass | 9 AM–1 PM
Zephyr Park, Zephyrhills | Saturday @ Zephyr Park | 9 AM–2 PM
Sunday, December 14
In the Loop Brewing, Land O' Lakes | Hoppy Christmas Market | 12–4 PM
Masaryk Winery, Masaryktown | Christmas Market at Masaryk Winery | 10 AM–3 PM
The Grove at Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Harvest Markets | 11 AM–3 PM
Events
Friday, December 12
38545 5th Ave, Zephyrhills | Lindy Hop Lesson and Social Dance | 6:30–9 PM
38550 5th Ave, Zephyrhills | Coffee & Networking at the East Pasco Chamber Office in Zephyrhills | 8–9 AM
BarrieHaus Beer Co Trinity, Trinity | 12 Days of Beermas | 12 PM
Carrollwood Cultural Center, Tampa | Holiday Tree Display and Auction | 9 AM–9 PM
Commandough's Pizza, Zephyrhills | Karaoke | 7–10:30 PM
Florida Farm School & Animal Rescue, Dade City | Toddler Time | 10:30 AM–12 PM
Idlewild Baptist Church, Lutz | Annual Christmas Presentation at Idlewild | 7–8:30 PM
Keel Farms, Plant City | Country Fridays w/Line Dancing | 6–10 PM
Keel Farms, Plant City | Line Dancing – Country Fridays | 6–10 PM
Krate at the Grove, Wesley Chapel | Freestyle & House Music | 7–11 PM
Main Theatre, Tampa FL 33618, FL | Tampa Metropolitan Improv | 7–8:30 PM
Raprager Family Farms, Odessa | Rapragar Farms Winter Festival | 4–8 PM
Side Splitters Comedy Club – Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Kevin McCaffrey | 7:30–9:15 PM
Side Splitters Comedy Club – Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Kevin McCaffrey | 9:30–11:15 PM
That Place Down The Street, Land O' Lakes | Mommy and Me Play Date | 9 AM–12 PM
The Shops at Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel | Joy to the World: A Christmas Puppet Show | 6:15–9:15 PM
Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant, Wesley Chapel | Dueling Pianos | 7–11 PM
Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant, Wesley Chapel | Ugly Sweater Party – Dueling Pianos | 7–11 PM
Wesley Chapel – The Grove 16, Wesley Chapel | Senior Social – 50+ | 3–5 PM
Saturday, December 13
9317 Tarpon Springs Rd, Odessa | Alpaca Ranch Tour Tickets 2025 | 9–11 AM
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Frosty 5K ($) | 7–8 AM
BarrieHaus Beer Co Trinity, Trinity | 12 Days of Beermas | 12 PM
Beef 'O' Brady's, Land O' Lakes | Survey Says Trivia Game | 6–8 PM
Bubba's 33, Wesley Chapel | Breakfast w/Santa | 8–10 AM
Central Pasco Vet Care, Lutz | Pet Photos w/Santa | 1–4 PM
Chick-fil-A, Odessa | Toy Drive with Toys for Tots | 6 AM–10 PM
Chick-fil-A, Zephyrhills | Touch a Truck | 11 AM–2 PM
Dade City Raceway, Dade City | 2X Monster Trucks | 12–9 PM
Downtown Dade City, Dade City | Holly Jolly Shopping Trail | 10 AM–8:15 PM
Double Bogeys Tavern & Grille, Lutz | Breakfast w/Santa | 10 AM–1 PM
Florida Cracker Fish Company, Tampa | Brunch | 8 AM–2 PM
Idlewild Baptist Church, Lutz | Annual Christmas Presentation at Idlewild ($) | 4–5:30 PM
Idlewild Baptist Church, Lutz | Annual Christmas Presentation at Idlewild ($) | 7–8:30 PM
Keke's Breakfast Cafe, Lutz | Coffee w/the Clauses at Keke’s | 9:30–11:30 AM
Krate at the Grove, Wesley Chapel | Caribbean Night | 8:30–11 PM
Pasco County Animal Services, Land O' Lakes | PCAS Holiday Open House | 12–4 PM
Raprager Family Farms, Odessa | Rapragar Farms Winter Festival | 10 AM–8 PM
Side Splitters Comedy Club – Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Kevin McCaffrey | 7–8:45 PM
Side Splitters Comedy Club – Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Kevin McCaffrey | 9:30–11:15 PM
Subaru of Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Subaru of Wesley Chapel Car Meet | 3–5 PM
Tampa Palms Country Club, Tampa | Holiday Celebration | 1–2 AM
Texas Roadhouse, Wesley Chapel | Breakfast w/Santa | 9–11 AM
The Cozy Collective Studio, Dade City | Christmas Stroll Drop In – Downtown | 8–10 PM
The Grove at Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Blush Wine Fest ($) | 6:30–9:30 PM
Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant, Wesley Chapel | Dueling Pianos | 7–11 PM
Timmy Jon's BBQ, Dade City | Breakfast w/Santa | 9–11 AM
Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus, Wesley Chapel | Grinch Cookie Decorating Class | 11:30 AM–1:30 PM
Zephyrhills Public Library, Zephyrhills | Breakfast with Santa | 9:30–11 AM
Sunday, December 14
37800 Church Ave, Dade City | Sing Along w/Santa | 2–3 PM
AdventHealth Center Ice, Wesley Chapel | 8th Annual Winter Show | 1–3 PM
AdventHealth Center Ice, Wesley Chapel | 8th Annual Winter Show | 5–7 PM
AdventHealth Center Ice, Wesley Chapel | Tree Lighting | 4:30–6 PM
Agnes Lamb Park, Dade City | Breathe & Stretch Yoga | 1–2 PM
Buddy's Home Furnishings, Dade City | Santa at Buddy's | 1–5 PM
Florida Cracker Fish Company, Tampa | Brunch | 8 AM–2 PM
House of Brews, Lutz | Brunch w/Santa | 10 AM–1 PM
Idlewild Baptist Church, Lutz | Annual Christmas Presentation at Idlewild ($) | 7–8:30 PM
Once Upon A Child, Tampa | Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus | 1–3 PM
Raprager Family Farms, Odessa | Rapragar Farms Winter Festival | 10 AM–7 PM
Sister Scoops, Lutz | Scoops w/Santa | 5–6:30 PM
Stonewater Grill, Land O' Lakes | Brunch w/Santa | 11 AM–3 PM
Very Berry Brunch, Lutz | Brunch w/Santa | 1–3 PM
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Wesley Chapel, Lutz | Pup Photos w/Santa | 1–3 PM
Monday, December 15
Dade City Brew House, Dade City | Trivia | 7–9 PM
The Shops at Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel | Santa Pet Photos at The Shops at Wiregrass | 4–7 PM
Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory, Odessa | Trivia Night | 6:30–8:30 PM
Tuesday, December 16
Crunch Fitness – Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Ugly Sweater Mid Month Party (Free & Open to all) | 5–8 PM
Florida Cracker Fish Company, Tampa | Kids Night | 5:30–8:30 PM
Latte Vino, Lutz | Coffee Collaboration | 7:30–9:30 AM
O'Brien's Irish Pub, Tampa | Trivia w/Tucker | 7–9 PM
O'Brien's Irish Pub & Grill Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel | Trivia w/Dang Yo | 7:30–10:30 PM
Starkey Market, Trinity | Drum Circle | 7–10 PM
The Brass Tap, Lutz | Holiday Wine Tasting | 6:30–8:30 PM
The Wexford Irish Pub & Grille, Lutz | Trivia Night | 7–9 PM
Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant, Wesley Chapel | Trivia and Taco Tuesday | 7–9 PM
Whiskey Willy's, Lutz | Pool Tournament w/Karaoke | 9–11 PM
WOB Bar & Kitchen Odessa, Odessa | Holiday Movie Trivia & Ugly Sweater | 7–9 PM
We’ll be on Instagram with updates wherever we end up. Feel free to slide into our DM’s.
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