Issue #431: Aug. 1 Is Hulk Hogan Day • Dade City Oak Saved • Mosquitoes Swarm Tampa Bay • Rays Trade Caballero

In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse

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Local News

— Governor Declares Aug. 1 as “Hulk Hogan in Florida Day”

— Community Uproar Halts Removal of Historic Oak in Dade City

OMG

— Saltmarsh Mosquitoes Swarm Tampa Bay After Wet Season

Sports

— Rays Send Caballero to Yankees in Final-Minute Deadline Deal

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Governor Declares Aug. 1 as “Hulk Hogan
in Florida Day”

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proclaimed Friday, Aug. 1 as Hulk Hogan in Florida Day in honor of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, who passed away on July 24 in Clearwater at the age of 71.

Flags will be flown at half-staff at the Capitol and all government buildings in Pinellas County.

Born Terry Bollea, Hogan moved to the Tampa Bay area at an early age and remained a local fixture, owning businesses and launching Real American Beer in 2024.

“The Hulkster was a true Floridian through and through,” DeSantis’ office said.

Hogan became a cultural icon in the 1980s and ’90s, headlining the first WrestleMania in 1985 and facing legendary opponents like Andre The Giant and The Rock.

Despite a 2015 scandal that temporarily removed him from WWE’s Hall of Fame, Hogan was reinstated in 2018.

He leaves behind a complicated but iconic legacy in sports and entertainment.

Read More: mysuncoast.com

Community Uproar Halts Removal of Historic Oak
in Dade City

A 200-year-old live oak tree outside the Pasco County courthouse was set for removal, but intense public backlash has placed the decision on hold.

Local residents, including attorney Keeley Karatinos and activist Kevin Taggerty, argue the tree is healthy and a vital symbol of Dade City’s charm. “It would be like removing the heartbeat of Dade City,” Karatinos said.

Pasco Commissioner Ron Oakley voiced concern over safety risks, citing a similar tree collapse in 2022 and its proximity to the WWII memorial, which includes names of his relatives.

A 7-year-old arborist report had recommended removal, but the Dade City Commission paused the plan pending a more thorough inspection, now underway.

Dozens rallied Wednesday to support preserving the tree. Officials said results from the new arborist report, expected next month, will guide future actions.

Still, residents vow to keep fighting for the tree’s preservation and the town’s historical identity.

Read More: abcactionnews.com

Saltmarsh Mosquitoes Swarm Tampa Bay
After Wet Season

Florida is facing a severe outbreak of saltmarsh mosquitoes, and experts say Tampa Bay may be in for a rough season.

Thanks to standing water left by last year’s hurricanes and recent high tides, mosquito eggs have had months to mature. These aggressive biters, common along the coast, can travel up to 40 miles inland, making even non-coastal communities vulnerable.

“They’re a nuisance and a threat to quality of life,” said Adriane Rogers of the Pasco County Mosquito Control Board. She emphasized the difficulty of controlling mosquitoes across large, marshy areas, many of which require aerial spraying.

While saltmarsh mosquitoes don't carry more diseases than typical species, they do bite more frequently and can transmit heartworm to pets.

Experts advise wearing bug spray and protective clothing, as these mosquitoes are just as active during the day as at night.

Read More: fox13news.com

Rays Send Caballero to Yankees in Final-Minute Deadline Deal

In a surprise last-minute move, the Tampa Bay Rays traded second baseman José Caballero to the New York Yankees, just before Thursday’s 6 p.m. MLB trade deadline.

In return, the Rays receive center fielder Everson Pereira and a player to be named later, according to YES Network’s Jack Curry.

Caballero, 28, was pulled mid-game during the Rays’ rain-delayed 7-4 loss to New York, seen hugging teammates in the dugout. Known for his speed, Caballero leads MLB with 34 stolen bases, tied with Pittsburgh’s O’Neil Cruz.

Originally debuting with the Mariners in 2023, Caballero was acquired by Tampa Bay this January. He’s hitting .226 with 2 home runs and 27 RBIs over 85 games this season.

Pereira, currently playing in Triple-A, adds to Tampa Bay’s outfield depth. He played 27 games for the Yankees in 2023 and is hitting .254 this year.

Read More: si.com

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Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links

The Arts
- USF College of the Arts
- USF Steinway Piano Concert Series

Theater
-NTPAC - New Tampa Performing Arts Center
- New Tampa Players
- USF School of Theatre & Dance
- Wesley Chapel Theater Group
- Carrollwood Players Theatre

Misc

- The Krate, WC
- The Shops at Wiregrass, WC
- visitflorida.com

For Kids
- Fun4TampaKids

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