Issue #155: Tampa Tourism Boom: New Hotels & Eateries, Pasco Schools' Fee Changes, Local Biz Spotlight & iPhone Scam Alert

07/10/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
10 Jul

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

 Local News

— Tampa's Tourism Surge Brings New Hotels and Dining Experiences

— Pasco Schools Adjust Volunteer Background Check Fees Amid Community Concerns

— Local Business Spotlight: Infinity Aero Club Tampa Bay: Empowering Through Aviation

Of Interest

— New 'Smishing' Scam Targets iPhone Users: Beware of Fake Apple ID Requests

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Local News Brought to You By:
NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Tampa's Tourism Surge Brings New Hotels and Dining Experiences

renovated historic hotel

Tampa's tourism is thriving, breaking records in 2023 and continuing strong in 2024. Hillsborough County collected over $7 million in Tourism Development Tax for March and April, driving significant growth. Over 2,500 new hotel rooms have been added in the past three years.

New attractions include the Florida Aquarium's expansion, the renovated Tampa Convention Center, and a booming culinary scene with 30 Michelin-listed restaurants. Historic venues like the Hotel Flor Tampa and Ten Rooms Ybor blend old and new, preserving architectural features while offering modern amenities.

Luxury additions such as the Tampa EDITION and expanded Epicurean Hotel elevate Tampa's hospitality. The Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile scenic path, connects these attractions. Craft, Tampa's first dining river cruise, offers a unique culinary experience on the Hillsborough River.

Read More: travelpulse.com — great article

Pasco Schools Adjust Volunteer Background Check Fees Amid Community Concerns

Pasco County school district revised its volunteer background check policy after complaints about the $41.25 fee, offering financial assistance to those unable to pay.

The program, effective July 1, mandates continuous monitoring to ensure volunteer safety. Volunteers needing checks include field trip chaperones and classroom helpers, while visitors, like those attending events, are exempt. Schools can use various funds to cover fingerprinting costs, and fees for activities can include volunteer expenses.

Assistant Superintendent Kevin Shibley highlighted the necessity for robust checks to prevent disqualified individuals from volunteering. Over 1,000 people have completed the process since the update, with the district historically seeing about 23,000 annual volunteer sign-ups.

 Local Business Spotlight

Infinity Aero Club Tampa Bay: Empowering Through Aviation

Infinity Aero Club's mission is straightforward yet ambitious: to impact over one million lives globally by making aviation and technology programs accessible and affordable. Since its inception, the club has already touched the lives of over 67,000 individuals, with its sights set on many more.

Diverse Programs and Initiatives

The club offers a wide array of programs designed to spark interest and provide hands-on experience in aviation. From discovery flights and drone operations to aircraft maintenance and entrepreneurship training, Infinity Aero Club caters to varied interests. A standout initiative, the "Hidden Treasures" tour, aims to introduce young people to the wonders of aviation. The club also collaborates with the Boy Scouts of America, extending its reach through the Explore Aviation Post and Club program.

Leadership Rooted in Service and Dedication

Ricardo Foster’s impressive background as a retired U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander and seasoned entrepreneur fuels the club’s success. His dedication to community service and passion for making aviation accessible to disadvantaged communities are the driving forces behind Infinity Aero Club’s impactful programs. Ricardo’s extensive experience in real estate, national security, and business start-ups further strengthens the club's foundation.

Ricardo Foster LtCdr USNR

Recognition and Awards

Infinity Aero Club’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The organization was honored with the Hillsborough County Black Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year Award for positively impacting over 21,000 lives in 2023 alone. Additionally, the club is nominated for the Pasco Economic Development Council Award 2024, highlighting its role in enhancing the quality of life in Pasco County through job creation, capital investment, and civic engagement.

Community Engagement and Upcoming Events

The club’s commitment to community engagement is evident in its upcoming Aviation Exploring Post & Club Open House on July 13, 2024. This event invites middle and high school students to explore aviation careers, offering insights into piloting, aircraft maintenance, drone operation, and more.

Looking Ahead

With a robust vision and dedicated leadership, Infinity Aero Club Tampa Bay continues to soar, fostering a new generation of aviation enthusiasts and professionals. As they work towards their goal of impacting one million lives, the sky is truly the limit.

For more information about their programs and initiatives, visit their website.

New 'Smishing' Scam Targets iPhone Users: Beware of Fake Apple ID Requests

A new phishing scam targeting iPhone users is emerging, with cybercriminals aiming to steal Apple ID information.

While these scams started via email, there is an increasing trend of "smishing," or phishing through text messages. These messages appear to be from Apple, requesting iCloud information and often include a CAPTCHA to seem legitimate. Reports of such scams have significantly increased, with text message scams becoming more common than email ones.

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