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  • Issue #641: Tampa Airport's TSA Backup Plan, Invasive Mealybug Reaches Polk, USF Craft Beer Innovation, Busch Gardens' Lion & Hyena Ridge Opens

Issue #641: Tampa Airport's TSA Backup Plan, Invasive Mealybug Reaches Polk, USF Craft Beer Innovation, Busch Gardens' Lion & Hyena Ridge Opens

7/23/2026

Author

Ted Grellner
23 Jul

In partnership with

GOOD MORNING

Dr Ted
USAF Retired

 
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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.) - Sorry - Out of Order

Local News 

— Tampa Airport Bets on Private Security to Reduce TSA Shutdown Disruptions

— New Invasive Mealybug Threatens Florida Ranches as Infestation Reaches Polk County

Business News

— From Classroom to Craft Beer: USF Brewing Program Inspires New Signature Brews

Of Interest

— Busch Gardens Unveils Spectacular Lion & Hyena Ridge Experience This Weekend

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Tampa Airport Bets on Private Security to Reduce TSA Shutdown Disruptions

Tampa International Airport plans to transition most passenger screening operations to a private contractor under the TSA's new Gold+ program, with the change expected by May 31, 2027. Federal security standards and TSA oversight will remain in place, while the private operator will manage screening personnel and checkpoint technology.

Airport leaders say the move will make security operations less vulnerable to federal government shutdowns, improve staffing stability, and allow faster upgrades to screening equipment and infrastructure. Current TSA employees could continue working at Tampa but may transition to contractor positions with different employment benefits and protections.

The model mirrors security systems used in Germany and the United Kingdom, where private companies conduct passenger screening under strict government regulation. Supporters believe the change increases flexibility and resilience, while critics argue it could weaken federal jobs and labor protections. Tampa's transition could become a model for airports nationwide if successful.

New Invasive Mealybug Threatens Florida Ranches as Infestation Reaches Polk County

A new invasive pasture mealybug is threatening Florida's cattle industry after spreading to 16 counties, including Polk County, where ranchers are already seeing significant pasture damage. The tiny white insect feeds on grazing grasses by injecting a toxin that causes yellowing, weak growth, and can eventually kill the plants.

At Crooked Lake Ranch in Frostproof, rancher David McCullers estimates the pest has already damaged about 100 acres of pasture. After spending $9,000 on insecticide treatments, the infestation showed little improvement.

Researchers with UF/IFAS say the insect, first confirmed in Florida in May 2026, may have been present longer than previously believed. Scientists are testing additional insecticides while encouraging ranchers to report suspected infestations to help slow the spread. Ranchers warn the pest could have serious economic consequences if it continues destroying the grass that sustains Florida's cattle industry.

From Classroom to Craft Beer: USF Brewing Program Inspires New Signature Brews

The University of South Florida has partnered with Mastry's Brewing Co. to release its first official university-branded beer, celebrating the success of USF's innovative Brewing Arts Certificate program while supporting future students. The collaboration includes the St. Pete Pilsner and the Green & Gold Lager, both brewed by USF alumni and sold at Mastry's brewery and select retailers around Tampa Bay.

Launched in 2015 at the USF St. Petersburg campus, the 24-week Brewing Arts Certificate combines online coursework with hands-on brewery training and is supported by more than 45 industry partners. The award-winning label for the St. Pete Pilsner was designed by USF graphic arts graduate Ashley Wiser as part of a classroom project.

A portion of every beer sold benefits the Brewing Arts program, helping train the next generation of brewers while showcasing USF's growing impact on Florida's thriving craft beer industry.

Busch Gardens Unveils Spectacular Lion & Hyena Ridge Experience This Weekend

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will officially open its 35,000-square-foot Lion & Hyena Ridge habitat on Saturday, July 25, giving visitors an immersive new way to experience two of Africa's most iconic predators. The exhibit is home to five African lions—the largest lion coalition at any AZA-accredited facility in the U.S.—along with two spotted hyenas.

Guests can enjoy 270-degree glass viewing windows, overhead bridges, and interactive cave areas that bring them remarkably close to the animals. The habitat also features climbing structures, water elements, and heated and cooled rocks designed to promote natural behaviors and enhance animal welfare.

While lions and hyenas share the exhibit, they rotate through separate habitat areas rather than occupying the space together. Busch Gardens says the attraction is part of its $200 million park enhancement plan and reinforces its commitment to wildlife conservation, education, and world-class guest experiences.

Tampa Bay’s Best Things to do this week of July
Source:
cltampa.com

 
Things to do Around Pasco this week:
7/23 - 7/29
Source:
tampabaybeacons.com


Things to do Around
Tampa & WC
7/23- 7/29
Source:
tampabaybeacons.com

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