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Good morning, Tampa!
ICYMI, Tampa was just ranked the third-best city for couples. Good news for those available for mistletoe, margaritas, and bad holiday decisions. Now, let’s dive into what you need to know:
Downtown is getting a massive new skyscraper
S’mores with Mrs. Claus at Armature Works this Wednesday
Hotel Haya holding a holiday market this Friday
— Pat & Shannon Cooper
BIG SCOOP
Sheriff’s Office Seeks Help Making Christmas Special for Kids
Local law-enforcement is calling on community members to donate new, unwrapped toys and gift cards — the goal is to make the holidays brighter for children across Sarasota County who might not otherwise get gifts this year.
What’s Happening
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is hosting its 9th annual Holiday Toy Drive, collecting donations through December 15.  Donations support a few local nonprofits — including All Star Children’s Foundation, Teen Court of Sarasota, and Guardian ad Litem — reaching kids from newborns up to 18 years old.
Why it Matters
There are many children in foster care, group homes, or difficult family situations who otherwise might wake up to an empty living room on Christmas morning — this drive helps guarantee they get something under the tree. With a tight deadline and a good stretch left to go, it’s a simple but powerful way for Tampa Bay area folks to spread some cheer this holiday season.
How You Can Help
Tampa residents can donate new, unwrapped toys or gift cards now through December 15 at designated Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office drop-off locations. Monetary donations and online wish-list purchases are also being accepted to help reach kids of all ages. Even a small contribution can make a big difference for a child’s Christmas morning.
LOCAL PICK
Bad Monkey
Why It’s Worth a Visit
Bad Monkey is a full-throttle Ybor City staple — a lively, military-themed bar with a wild vibe, 20+ TVs, and just the right mix of energy and chill.  Whether you’re catching a big game, hanging with friends, or just looking for a fun night out, this place delivers. The three distinct spaces — main bar, upstairs VIP lounge, and outdoor patio — make it easy to find your scene.
What to Try
For food: Go for the classic burger or a crispy Buffalo chicken wrap — both solid pub-grub bets that pair perfectly with a drink.
For drinks: Grab a cold draft beer during their happy hour (Monday–Friday, 3–6pm), or treat yourself to a Moscow Mule or Rum Punch if you prefer cocktails.
For social: Try the upstairs VIP lounge — it’s got pool tables, a big screen, and a fun “back-deck” vibe that feels separate but still part of the action.
How We’re Feeling
Bad Monkey isn’t your quiet lounge — it’s a full-on Ybor City experience. It nails the trifecta of great drinks, solid eats, and a social atmosphere that feels welcoming whether you’re solo, with friends, or celebrating something. If you’re in Tampa and want a night that actually feels like a night out, this place hits.
LOCAL SCOOP
New Speed Limit on Howard-Frankland Bridge
The speed limit on the Howard Frankland Bridge will drop from 60 mph to 55 mph starting last night, as part of a safety effort by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Full Scoop →
Tampa Could Get a New Tallest Tower
A developer has proposed building a 70-story, 740-foot mixed-use skyscraper—Elliott Towers—in downtown Tampa, which would make it the tallest building in the city if approved. Full Scoop →
Snack Shack Rebuild Underway in Madeira Beach
After damage from Hurricane Helene forced it to close, local leaders and community partners are working to reopen the beloved Snack Shack in Madeira Beach — aiming to restore a favorite gathering spot for residents and visitors alike. Full Scoop →
ACE Students Get Behind-the-Scenes Look at Gasworx
Teens in the ACE Mentor Program toured the massive redevelopment site at Gasworx in Ybor City to learn about architecture, construction, and engineering. Full Scoop →
Florida SNAP Rules Change for 2025
Florida has tightened eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), meaning more adults — including those ages 55–64 and parents whose children are older than 14 — must meet new work or training requirements to qualify. Full Scoop →
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R/TAMPA
If you’re hoping to actually see the downtown Tampa fireworks, the Grand Hyatt by the airport is a great hotel but unfortunately not a good viewing spot—it’s too far west to catch the Riverwalk show clearly.
For prime views (and rooftop vibes), locals swear by:
JW Marriott Water Street: rooftop pool + skyline views
Edition Tampa: luxury rooftop bar right by the action
Le Méridien (old courthouse hotel): hidden gem near downtown
Westin Waterside: some rooms have direct water/fireworks views
If you’re flexible on “in-room view,” booking anywhere in Water Street, Harbour Island, or Channelside and walking to the Riverwalk is usually the best mix of price + experience.
And happy milestone birthday—that’s an awesome way to celebrate it 🥂
AROUND TOWN
MONDAY (12/8)
Dinner with Strangers: Bucs Fans Edition | Local Restaurant
Are you a Bucs fan looking to do something spontaneous? Eat dinner with a few strangers and make some lifelong friends. Full Scoop →Figure Drawing Class | Tampa Museum of Art
Learn the fundamentals of figure drawing and grow your skills during this 3-hour guided session. Full Scoop →Black Polish | The Orpheum
Black Polish blends soulful melodies and high-energy beats in their Monday night set at The Orpheum. Full Scoop →
TUESDAY (12/9)
World’s Largest Toy Drive | Tampa Motor Enclave
Bring a smile to a child in need this season and donate a toy for this massive, ten-city-wide toy drive. Full Scoop →The Grinch | Sparkman Wharf
See The Grinch for FREE at Sparkman Wharf. The first 25 guests will receive a free themed donut from Everglazed. Full Scoop →OE Book Club: The Secret Garden | Oxford Exchange
Join the OE Book Club for a lively discussion of The Secret Garden, wine, light bites, and a holiday book swap. Full Scoop →
WEDNESDAY (12/10)
The Muppet Christmas Carol | Tampa Theatre
Arguably the best holiday movie, The Muppet Christmas Carol, is playing at 7 pm, so grab your family for a fun, musical evening. Full Scoop →S’mores and Story Time by the Fire | Armature Works
Roast some marshmallows over the fire and cozy up with your loved ones to listen to Story Time with Mrs. Claus. Full Scoop →Paint Night | Flippers PIzzeria
Enjoy a glass of wine and get creative! This month’s painting creation is called Gnome for the Holidays. And grab a slice while you’re there. Full Scoop →
THURSDAY (12/11)
The Holiday Promenade | Water Street
Check out this evening market to shop from local vendors for unique gifts and take in the festive atmosphere. Full Scoop →Sentimental Value | Tampa Theatre
Hailed as one of the best films of the year, Sentimental Value is playing on the big screen this weekend. Full Scoop →Holiday Mixology Class | NOVEL Beach Park
Join an expert from Salt & Surf Bartending to learn how to create fun, festive cocktails—and maybe enjoy a few yourself. Full Scoop →
FRIDAY (12/12)
Brandy, Monica, Kelly Rowland, & Muni Long | Benchmark International Arena
Jam out to a night of 90’s R&B classics as Brandy and Monica bring their “The Boy Is Mine Tour” to Tampa with special guests Kelly Rowland and Muni Long. Full Scoop →Les Miserables | Straz Center
The touring production of the iconic musical, Les Mis, is coming to the Straz Center from the 10th to the 14th. Full Scoop →Feliz Novedades | Hotel Haya
Shop from a curated selection of local artists, makers, and small businesses at this holiday market. Full Scoop →
SCORECARD
Final Scores
🗓️ 12/6
0 | Lightning
2 | Islanders
🗓️ 12/7
20 | Buccaneers
24 | Saints
Upcoming Games
🏒 Lightning v Maple Leafs (12/8 @ 7:30 PM EST)
📍Scotiabank Arena | Toronto, CA
🏒 Lightning v Devils (12/11 @ 7:00 PM EST)
📍Prudential Center | Newark, NJ
🏈 Buccaneers v Falcons (12/11 @ 8:15 PM EST)
📍Raymond James Stadium | Tampa, FL
Tampa Gears Up for 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl
The 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl will spotlight Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Vanderbilt Commodores on December 31 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa — marking the first-ever matchup between the two programs. Full Scoop →
Gary Sheffield Falls Short in 2026 Hall of Fame Vote
Despite being on this year’s ballot for National Baseball Hall of Fame consideration, Sheffield failed to earn enough votes from the Contemporary Era committee — as only red-hot slugger Jeff Kent collected the necessary support for induction. Full Scoop →
Tampa Bay Sports Collector Expo Draws Huge Crowd
Thousands attended the Tampa Bay Sports Collector Expo at the Florida State Fairgrounds over the weekend, where around 200 vendors showcased millions of dollars in cards, memorabilia, and collectibles — turning the show into a major regional gathering. Full Scoop →
WEATHER
Monday
73 🌡️ 51 | 🌧️ | 46% | 💨NNE 8 mph
Tuesday
70 🌡️ 52 | 🌤 | 12% | 💨NE 9 mph
Wednesday
73 🌡️ 55 | 🌤 | 8% | 💨NW 8 mph
Thursday
74 🌡️ 51 | 🌤 | 7% | 💨NW 6 mph
Friday
75 🌡️ 55 | 🌤 | 6% | 💨E 4 mph
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HAVE A GREAT WEEK
Your support keeps The 813 Scoop growing — thank you, neighbors!
Pat & Shannon Cooper