Issue #078: From Last to First: Cartucho, Amazon Innovates in Pasco, Alligator Finds Home, Polar Plunge Warms Hearts!

032524

Author

Ted Grellner
25 Mar

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Local News

🏇Cartucho: From Last to First in a Stellar Debut at Tampa

🤖Amazon's Pasco Project: A Robotic Revolution in Sorting and Shipping

 🐊 Nearly Half-a-Ton of Trouble: Temple Terrace Alligator Finds New Home

Sports

🧊Cold Waters, Warm Hearts: Polar Plunge Raises $80K for Special Athletes

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

March 25

March 26

March 28

March 29

March 30

March 31

Cartucho: From Last to First in a Stellar Debut at Tampa

 In an impressive display of speed and skill, Cartucho, a yearling acquired for $1.2 million at the 2022 Keeneland September Sale by the partnership of Three Chimneys Farm, William Lawrence, and Walmac Farm, made a spectacular debut at Tampa Bay Downs. Despite a challenging start that saw him trailing early on, Cartucho, ridden by Javier Castellano and favored at 6-5, showcased his prowess by securing a dominant victory, finishing 6 1/4 lengths ahead of the competition in a 7f race on March 24.

Starting slowly and getting squeezed back at the gate, Cartucho found himself at the back of the pack. However, his determination and agility were on full display as he quickly caught up, staying along the rail and overtaking rivals with a burst of speed in the final furlong, under the guidance of Castellano. This victory not only marked his graduation but also earned him the title of the 11th 'TDN Rising Star' for his sire, Gun Runner.

Cartucho hails from a lineage of champions. He is out of GI Ruffian Invitational H. winner Malibu Prayer, who was sold to Besilu Stables for $2 million at KEENOV in 2011. Cartucho has proven to be a worthy investment, adding to the legacy of his family which includes Japanese stakes winner Cros Parantoux and stakes-placed Awesome Ruta, among others.

This win at Tampa Bay Downs signifies a promising start to Cartucho's racing career, reflecting the potential seen in him at the Keeneland sale. With such a remarkable debut, all eyes will be on Cartucho as he continues to race, possibly following in the footsteps of his distinguished sire and dam.

Amazon's Pasco Project: A Robotic Revolution in Sorting and Shipping

 Pasco County is on the brink of a technological leap as Amazon moves forward with plans for a state-of-the-art robotic sorting center. Two years after its initial announcement, Amazon has submitted conceptual plans for a 517,220-square-foot distribution center located on State Road 52 and Bellamy Brothers Boulevard. This development marks a significant progression after a period of inactivity on the 69-acre site, acquired by Amazon for $11.8 million. The new facility, expected to create 500 jobs, emphasizes Pasco's growing role in the tech-driven logistics sector.

With groundbreaking initially anticipated shortly after the project's announcement in January 2022, delays placed the project on hold. However, the recent submission to Pasco County signals Amazon's commitment to developing this "outbound cross-dock center" aimed at enhancing the efficiency of its fulfillment network. The facility, part of Amazon's global supply chain, is set to open in 2024 and will specialize in the sortation and distribution of goods, promising a boost to the local economy and employment, particularly for those with technical skills.

The Pasco Economic Development Council has lauded the project, highlighting the local talent pipeline of robotics experts as a key asset. Modifications to the site plan, including adjustments to traffic flow and building structure, have been made in consultation with state transportation officials. This initiative not only underscores the importance of advanced site development for industrial projects but also cements Amazon's growing presence in Pasco County with a $150 million investment in the region.

Nearly Half-a-Ton of Trouble: Temple Terrace Alligator Finds New Home

A nearly 500-pound alligator, which had become a growing concern for residents of Temple Terrace, Florida, has been safely relocated from its unconventional home at an old Coca-Cola plant to Croc Encounters, a facility in Tampa specializing in the rescue of these reptiles.

The alligator, measuring 9 feet in length, had been residing at the plant for an extended period, drawing attention due to its size and the fact that it had been illegally fed by people, potentially increasing its dependency on human-provided food.

The presence of the alligator, lounging amidst mulch and trash, prompted Croc Encounters to step in, ensuring the safety of both the alligator and the community. Croc Encounters not only rescues alligators but also offers educational programs and tours, allowing visitors to safely interact with these formidable creatures.

This incident highlights the importance of adhering to Florida’s wildlife regulations, including the prohibition against feeding alligators, to prevent similar situations.

"Cold Waters, Warm Hearts: Polar Plunge Raises $80K for Special Athletes

In an inspiring display of community spirit and athleticism, over 500 participants took a chilly dive into Mirada Lagoon for the fifth annual Polar Plunge event in San Antonio, Florida, raising over $80,000 for Special Olympics Florida.

This significant event underscores the organization's commitment to offering free programming to its athletes and caregivers, emphasizing the importance of fundraising to support its wide range of activities.

Special Olympics Florida, serving nearly 70,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities, offers training, competitions, health screenings, and leadership development programs. Athlete Jacob Sare, who has been part of the Special Olympics for two decades, shared his journey of collecting gold medals in various sports, highlighting the profound impact of the organization on his life.

The event not only showcased the athletic achievements of participants like Sare but also celebrated the sense of community, health, and friendship that Special Olympics fosters among its athletes. 

As Special Olympics Florida continues to grow, they are actively seeking coaches to join their cause and help extend their impact.

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