In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

This Week’s Events

WEATHER

Local News

🎨Kristin Lucas: Redefining Art in the Digital Age at the College of the Arts

🚗  Florida could crack down on left-lane drivers as SB258 heads to Senate

🥃 Kendall Jenner's Spirited Visit: Tequila Tasting at Luekens in Tampa

Of Interest

💦Great Wolf Lodge announces opening date for South Florida resort and water park

Crime

💻The Thin Line Between Investigative Reporting and Hacking: Tim Burke's Indictment

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

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February 23 — 9th Annual SunWest Crab & Shrimp Fest--2/23-25th, SunWest Park, 17362 Old Dixie Hwy, Hudson

February 24 —  Gasparilla Distance Classic -- 2/24-25

February 24 — Repticon - Family event (no tix at door)--2/24-25, Florida State Fairgrounds, 9/10am-4pm

February 25 — USF Symphony Orch, USF Concert Hall (MUS 101) TPA, 2-4pm

February 26

February 27

February 28 — Wiregrass Weekly 3.1 Run Club,Irish 31 Pub House & Eatery, 28358 Willet Way, WC, 630pm

February 28 — Ghost Stories by the Fire (& S'mores)-only 10 tix available,12603 Corral Rd, Tampa 33626, 7-830pm

Kristin Lucas: Redefining Art in the Digital Age at the College of the Arts

The College of the Arts at USF (Tampa Campus) is set to host a unique exhibition by the Kennedy Family Visiting Artist, Kristin Lucas. Renowned for her innovative approach to art, Lucas will showcase an eclectic mix of works, blending various mediums like intervention, video, participatory media, game-like art, and augmented reality experiences. Her art delves into the complex interplay between natural, social, and technological realms, often spotlighting the precarious balance between prosperity and vulnerability within these environments.

Lucas's art is not just about viewing but experiencing. She employs an experimental research method, inviting collaboration and audience participation, thus transforming mixed realities into a canvas of humor, philosophical reflections, and a celebration of existence. Her work transcends traditional platforms, reaching audiences through diverse channels like phone apps, social media, and even unconventional spaces like zoos and public areas.

A graduate of The Cooper Union and Stanford University, Lucas currently serves as an associate professor of Studio Art at the University of Texas at Austin. She is also a prominent member of Collective Task, an international group of artists and poets known for their collaborative creations.

Click HERE For Show Details - 2/28 6-730pm

Click HERE for her studio website

Florida could crack down on left-lane drivers as SB258 heads to Senate

The Florida Senate recently passed a bill (HB 317) aimed at restricting the use of the left lane on highways. This bill mandates that drivers on highways with two or more lanes in the same direction and speed limits of 65 mph or higher can only use the left lane for passing, exiting, or when directed by traffic control devices. High-occupancy vehicle lanes are exempt from this rule.

The bill proposes non-criminal moving violation fines up to $158 for drivers who fail to comply. This legislation is intended to improve highway safety by reducing instances of passing on the right​

Kendall Jenner's Spirited Visit: Tequila Tasting at Luekens in Tampa

Kendall Jenner recently graced Tampa with her presence, hosting a private tequila tasting event at Luekens Wine & Spirits. Known for organizing stellar celebrity meet-and-greets, Luekens added another feather to its cap following a successful event with Mark Wahlberg. Dressed in simple workout attire, Jenner, the towering beauty, impressed guests with her down-to-earth demeanor, showcasing her new 818 Tequila brand.

Participants, including myself, were treated to an exclusive tasting of Jenner's 818 Tequila, guided expertly by her business partner, David. The highlight was the array of tequila blends, especially the Reposado with its caramel notes and the Anejo, a favorite of attendee Doug. David's insights into the proper sipping technique and aroma appreciation added to the experience.

Jenner's venture into the tequila business follows a trend set by celebrities like George Clooney, whose success with Casa Migos reflects the potential for substantial financial gains in the liquor industry. With her 818 brand, Jenner could be on track to rival the achievements of her sister Kylie, a Fortune 500 climber with her beauty brand.

This event not only highlighted the appeal of 818 Tequila but also served as a reminder of Tampa's vibrant scene for tequila enthusiasts.

Great Wolf Lodge announces

opening date for South Florida resort

and water park

Great Wolf Lodge has announced the opening date for its new resort and water park in South Florida. Scheduled to open on September 25, 2024, in Naples, this resort will be the first Great Wolf Lodge in Florida and the brand's 21st in the nation.

The 92,000-square-foot indoor water park is designed with various interactive and immersive features, including a centerpiece attraction named Otter Cave Waterworks. The resort aims to provide a whimsical and adventure-filled experience, reflecting the stories of the Great Wolf Pack characters.

The water park will include numerous attractions such as 12 slides, three pools, and interactive water play zones, all maintained at a cozy 84 degrees.

Click HERE for more information

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The Thin Line Between Investigative Reporting and Hacking: Tim Burke's Indictment

Tim Burke, a 45-year-old Tampa media consultant, faces 14 federal charges relating to alleged computer hacks at Fox News. Burke, who heads Burke Communications and has previously collaborated with major media clients like HBO and ESPN, was arrested and appeared in court in handcuffs. He was released on his own recognizance.

The indictment charges Burke with conspiracy, unauthorized computer access, and intercepting communications. It alleges that he and an unnamed accomplice used stolen credentials to access and share protected broadcast video streams. This included content like Kanye West's antisemitic rant and Tucker Carlson's footage.

His wife, Tampa City Council member Lynn Hurtak, stands by his innocence. The FBI previously searched their home, seizing devices related to Burke's business.

Burke's defense team asserts that his actions were part of legal digital journalism, comparing his use of credentials to sharing Netflix passwords. They claim the material was accessed via unencrypted links, not requiring special tools.

Prosecutors sought to restrict Burke's internet use, but the magistrate released him with specific conditions. This case raises significant questions about the ethics and legality of digital journalism.

Click HERE for the whole story

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