Issue #156: New ER for Pasco, Chipotle's Innovative Drive-Thru, & Rising Auto Insurance Rates

07/11/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
11 Jul

Keep your finger on the Pulse!

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GOOD MORNING

A note on a local news story yesterday. A reader (Cory) wrote to report that Ten Rooms Ybor is now closed, 3 months after opening.

Dr Ted
USAF Retired

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

 Local News

— AdventHealth Starts Construction on New Meadow Pointe ER in Pasco

— Chipotle Revolutionizes Fast Food with Wesley Chapel's First Chipotlane

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

Of Interest

— Sharp Rise in Auto Insurance Premiums Linked to High-Theft Vehicles

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Local News Brought to You By:
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AdventHealth Starts Construction on New Meadow Pointe ER in Pasco

AdventHealth and Pasco County officials broke ground on a new Emergency Room (ER) in Meadow Pointe at 5170 Chapel Commerce Drive, Wesley Chapel, FL.

The 13,000-square-foot facility will have 12 patient beds, two triage rooms, and comprehensive imaging and lab services. This $26 million project, scheduled for completion by early 2025, will create over 30 new jobs.

Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills, Dade City, and Connerton, emphasized the importance of meeting the needs of the rapidly growing community. The new ER will join AdventHealth’s network of eight other freestanding emergency rooms in the Tampa Bay Area.

Officials, including Rep. Randy Maggard and Pasco County Commissioner Seth Weightman, attended the ceremony.

Chipotle Revolutionizes Fast Food with Wesley Chapel's First Chipotlane

(A little AI image humor)

Chipotle has introduced its first Chipotlane in Wesley Chapel, the fourth in the Tampa Bay area. This new feature lets customers order and pick up custom meals from their car via the Chipotle app, making it a quick and convenient option.

"Using our app to pick up via a Chipotlane is the fastest way to get Chipotle," a spokesperson said, noting it takes under 30 seconds.

The Wesley Chapel location offers Chicken Al Pastor for a limited time. Chipotle plans to open its 1,000th Chipotlane later this year. Despite this, in-store dining remains popular, with 63.5% of Q1 2024 sales coming from in-restaurant experiences.

Located at 28906 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544, this new Chipotle is open from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. and provides employment opportunities. Interested candidates can apply on Chipotle’s website.

 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.

Sharp Rise in Auto Insurance Premiums Linked to High-Theft Vehicles

Auto insurance rates have surged in 2024, with some vehicle owners facing significant hikes. Factors such as higher new car prices and increased repair costs have led to premiums rising by over 20% for many. Owners of specific models, particularly certain Hyundais and Kias, are experiencing even steeper increases due to these cars being high-theft targets following a viral TikTok challenge.

Rebecca Long, a mother of three, saw her insurance jump by $900 for six months, with her 2016 Hyundai Sonata's premium rising from $857 to over $1,200. Insurers are raising rates or even refusing coverage for these high-risk vehicles.

According to Bankrate, the average car insurance policy now exceeds $2,500 per year, which is nearly 3.5% of a family’s income. To manage rising costs, experts suggest shopping around for better rates, asking about usage discounts, bundling policies, removing optional coverages, and raising deductibles. Even drivers with clean records, like Long, are not immune to these hikes.

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