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- Issue #582: Aquafence Donation Protects Aquarium Life | Tampa Bay Seniors Get Job Support | UF Warns on Swamp Eels | Rays Bring Back Concert Nights
Issue #582: Aquafence Donation Protects Aquarium Life | Tampa Bay Seniors Get Job Support | UF Warns on Swamp Eels | Rays Bring Back Concert Nights
4/9/2026
Ted Grellner
09 Apr
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse
Our Event Calendar
Please post events of interest to our NT|WC Live Events Calendar; its easy to do.
Local News
— Donated Aquafence System Aims to Safeguard 20,000 Aquarium Animals
— Workforce Program Targets Unemployed Seniors in Tampa Bay
Of Interest
— Invasive Swamp Eels Threaten Florida Wildlife, UF Researchers Warn
Sports
— Baseball Meets Country Music as Rays Revive Concert Nights
Donated Aquafence System Aims to Safeguard 20,000 Aquarium Animals
The Florida Aquarium is adding a critical layer of protection against future hurricanes with a newly donated Aquafence flood barrier system. City leaders say the system will help safeguard the downtown Tampa facility, its 20,000 animals, and millions of dollars in infrastructure.
The move follows lessons learned during Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, which exposed the aquarium’s vulnerability to storm surge. The barrier, similar to one used successfully at Tampa General Hospital, is designed to protect exhibits, staff, and habitats from rising المياه.
Installation is being supported by Tampa General Hospital and Water Street Tampa developers, while the city continues broader resilience efforts. Tampa has invested $350 million in stormwater upgrades since 2019 as part of a $1.9 billion budget plan.
Officials emphasize evacuation is not feasible, making flood protection essential ahead of this hurricane season.
Workforce Program Targets Unemployed Seniors
in Tampa Bay
A workforce training program in New Port Richey is helping unemployed seniors across Tampa Bay reenter the job market. Run by the Access Center, the initiative serves low-income adults aged 55 and older who have been out of work for at least six months. With nearly 80,000 people unemployed in the region, many seniors struggle with limited computer skills and adapting to modern job demands.
The program provides hands-on training in technology, resume building, and digital tools, including artificial intelligence. Participants also receive financial support while gaining skills and searching for stable employment.
Although the program can last up to four years, many participants find jobs within 8 to 12 months. By improving skills, confidence, and employability, the initiative helps seniors regain independence while contributing to lower unemployment and a stronger local economy.
Invasive Swamp Eels Threaten Florida Wildlife, UF Researchers Warn
University of Florida researchers are asking residents to help track the spread of Asian swamp eels, an invasive species first documented in the Everglades in 2007.
These eel-like fish, native to Asia, are now spreading across South Florida and have been found in areas near Tampa, including Little Manatee River and Bullfrog Creek. Scientists warn they may be contributing to declines in crayfish and amphibian populations.
The species is especially difficult to control due to its unique survival traits. Swamp eels can breathe air, survive in low-oxygen water, and burrow into mud during dry periods. They also reproduce quickly and consume a wide range of prey, from worms to fish.
Because they are hard to detect, researchers are urging the public to report sightings of any “eel-like fish” in canals or wetlands. Reports can be made via IVEGOT1.org, the mobile app, or by calling 1-888-IVEGOT1.
Baseball Meets Country Music as Rays Revive Concert Nights
The Tampa Bay Rays are bringing back their popular Postgame Concert Series for the 2026 season, adding a strong country music theme to this year’s lineup. The series features three Saturday night performances at Tropicana Field, giving fans a full evening of baseball followed by live entertainment.
Scheduled artists include Chase Rice (May 2), Cole Swindell (May 30), and Jordan Davis (Aug. 15), each performing after Rays home games. Fans can enhance their experience with a $35.10 field access wristband, allowing closer proximity to the stage.
Team officials say the series is designed to create a more dynamic fan experience by combining sports and live music. The return of the concerts also follows the Rays’ reopening at Tropicana Field, highlighted by a national anthem performance from Eric Church.
The promotion offers fans added value, turning a standard game ticket into a full night of entertainment.
Tampa Bay’s Best Live Music
Apr 2 - Apr 9
Source: cltampa.com
Gasparilla Music Fest (Water St, Tpa) | Tampa Bay Blues Festival (Vinoy Park) |
Top Events in Tampa Bay for week of | |
|
Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
The Arts
- The Exhibiting Society of Artists (new)
- 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
- Carrollwood Center Events
- Craft Festivals (new)
- Fall (Farmer’s) Market Guide for Tampa Bay (new)
- The Krate, WC
- The Shops at Wiregrass, WC
- visitflorida.com
For Kids
- Fun4TampaKids
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