In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

🗓  This Week’s Events

🌦 WEATHER

🏠Pasco County Residents Triumph in Battle to Save Homes Near Giant Sinkhole

⚾Identity Debate: Should Tampa Bay Rays Become St. Petersburg Rays?

🌉Adrenaline Junkies, Take Note: Florida's Own Seven Mile Bridge Ranks Globally Terrifying

👮‍♂️No Crime, Just a Warning From TPD: Weekend Traffic Alert: Downtown Tampa Bustling with Events

🏀USF Bulls Clash with Florida State in Orange Bowl Basketball Classic

This Week’s Events in the NewTampa | Wesley Chapel FL Local Area

December 8 — Adoration of the Magi: A Madrigal Dinner - 8pm

December 9 — Adoration of the Magi: A Madrigal Dinner - 8pm

December 10 — 2nd Sunday Harvest Mkt @ The Grove - 10am-2

December 10 — Chanukah Street Fair, Krate at the Grove - 5pm

December 11 — Heralds of Harmony, NTPAC - 730pm

December 12

December 13

Pasco County Residents Triumph in Battle to Save Homes Near Giant Sinkhole

In the aftermath of Pasco County's largest recorded sinkhole in 2017, which condemned seven homes in Lake Padgett Estates, four families fought against demolition and emerged victorious. Despite initial government orders, these families hired engineers to assess their properties, leading to agreements absolving Pasco County of responsibility.

GeoView's geophysical testing found stable conditions, but acknowledged the calculated risk in a sinkhole-prone region. Residents, like Brian Bishop, express confidence in their safety. USF researchers created a 3-D model, revealing the sinkhole's 52-foot depth. This triumph highlights the community's resilience amidst geological challenges. Explore the sinkhole model and Florida's reported sinkholes on the provided links.

Identity Debate: Should Tampa Bay Rays Become St. Petersburg Rays?

St. Petersburg Councilwoman Gina Driscoll has proposed a name change for the Tampa Bay Rays amid ongoing stadium negotiations. Driscoll suggests rebranding the team as the "St. Petersburg Rays," emphasizing the city's identity.

The debate over the team's name revolves around the perception of the region versus the specific stadium location. Mayor Ken Welch argues that like other teams representing broader regions, the Rays symbolize the entire Tampa Bay area.

While acknowledging the historical connection to Tropicana Field, Welch shifts focus to the upcoming redevelopment project in the Historic Gas Plant District, aiming to honor the Black community and address community needs.

The proposal will be discussed at the December 14 city council meeting.

Adrenaline Junkies, Take Note:

Florida's Own Seven Mile Bridge Ranks Globally Terrifying

Florida's Seven Mile Bridge has earned a spot among the world's scariest bridges, according to TravelandLeisure.com. Despite its seven-mile length, the bridge's vulnerability to hurricanes adds an element of fear, especially during storms. While the newest version boasts a sturdier 65-foot-high arch, caution is advised in adverse weather.

The study emphasizes that terrifying bridges exist worldwide, with France's Aiguille du Midi Bridge claiming the top spot at an elevation of 12,605 feet. For thrill-seekers and those with a fear of heights, navigating these vertigo-inducing structures demands extra caution.

Click HERE to read the full article

No Crime, Just a Warning From TPD:

Weekend Traffic Alert: Downtown Tampa Bustling with Events

Downtown Tampa anticipates over 30,000 visitors on Saturday, December 9, creating traffic challenges due to various events and ongoing construction. Notable venues hosting events include Amalie Arena, Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa Convention Center, Straz Center, and Armature Works.

Road closures along Brorein Street, Bayshore Boulevard, and Ashley Drive will be in effect. To navigate this, the City of Tampa Mobility Department suggests alternative transportation like the TECO Streetcar, DASH, ride-shares, HART Buses, Pirate Water Taxi, e-scooters, or walking. Travelers are advised to plan for longer commute times, arrive early, and stay vigilant in crowded areas.

Click HERE for more information

USF Bulls Clash with Florida State in Orange Bowl Basketball Classic

The University of South Florida men's basketball team is set to face Florida State at the Orange Bowl Basketball Classic in Sunrise, Florida, on December 9. Led by top scorer Selton Miguel, the Bulls boast a strong bench that has consistently outscored opponents this season.

Despite a recent loss to UMass, Miguel's standout performance keeps hopes high. The historical matchup with Florida State adds intensity, with the Seminoles holding a series advantage. Key players for FSU, Darin Green Jr. and Jamir Watkins, present a challenge for the Bulls.

The tale of the tape reveals a close contest, promising an exciting game at Amerant Bank Arena. Tickets are available at orangebowl.org

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