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- Issue #188: Hillsborough Surtax Settlement & Refund Details | Comic Convention’s Big Comeback | Busch Gardens Retires Scorpion Coaster
Issue #188: Hillsborough Surtax Settlement & Refund Details | Comic Convention’s Big Comeback | Busch Gardens Retires Scorpion Coaster
08/26/2024
Ted Grellner
26 Aug
Keep your finger on the Pulse!
GOOD MORNING
Dr Ted
USAF Retired
In this issue of
NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse
Local News
— Hillsborough County Residents May Be Eligible for Surtax Refund in $569M Settlement
— Tampa Bay Comic Convention Draws 50,000 Fans in a Lively Return
Of Interest
— Scorpion Bows Out: Busch Gardens’ Classic Coaster to Close After 44 Years
Sports
— Tampa Bay Rays' Winning Formula: Does It Really Work?
🎵Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
This Month’s Events in the NewTampa Wesley Chapel Live Events Calendar
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Hillsborough County Residents May Be Eligible for Surtax Refund in
$569M Settlement
Tampa Bay area residents and visitors may be eligible for a refund due to an unconstitutional 1% sales surtax imposed in Hillsborough County from January 1, 2019, to March 15, 2021. A class action settlement allows those who paid the surtax during this period to claim a partial refund. The $569 million settlement fund will be used to compensate eligible claimants, fund transportation projects, and extend a sales tax holiday.
Claimants have two options: submit proof of taxable purchases for a full refund or claim a standard award of up to $100 if they resided in Hillsborough County during the surtax period without proof of purchases. Claims must be filed at www.FLTaxRefund.com by December 31, 2024. A virtual court hearing on November 7, 2024, will determine final approval. Those wishing to opt out or object must do so by October 25, 2024.
Tampa Bay Comic Convention Draws 50,000 Fans in a Lively Return
The Tampa Bay Comic Convention made a lively return to the Tampa Convention Center this weekend, drawing around 50,000 attendees, marking a return to pre-pandemic enthusiasm. Running since 2010, the event attracted fans eager to dive into a vibrant celebration of pop culture.
Highlights included celebrity meet-and-greets, author signings, and a bustling vintage market filled with unique collectibles. Cosplayers showcased their creativity, competing for prizes in various costume contests, adding to the dynamic atmosphere.
The event, distinct from other conventions, is careful to avoid being called “comic con” due to a past legal dispute with San Diego. However, this hasn’t dampened the community's spirit, which continues to thrive with its blend of nostalgia, creativity, and shared passion.
A standout moment was an appearance by an attendee dressed as Chainsaw Man, reflecting the colorful and energetic environment that defines this beloved convention.
Read More: tampabay.com <— don’t miss great photos of event
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Scorpion Bows Out: Busch Gardens’ Classic Coaster to Close After 44 Years
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is saying goodbye to its second-oldest roller coaster, the iconic "Scorpion," after 44 thrilling years.
The park announced that the beloved ride will permanently close after Labor Day on September 2. Scorpion, which first opened on May 16, 1980, was part of the park's Timbuktu section and quickly became a favorite among coaster enthusiasts. Notably, Scorpion is the last stationary coaster of its kind, making its closure a significant moment in theme park history.
While many will miss the adrenaline rush of Scorpion's 360-degree loop, Busch Gardens officials have hinted that this closure will allow for new attractions to be introduced in the future. As the park evolves, it continues to balance nostalgia with innovation, offering visitors fresh and exciting experiences.
Here’s an unexpected fact about roller coasters that might intrigue you:
The first roller coasters were not built for amusement parks, but rather originated from ice slides constructed in Russia in the 15th century. These early "coasters" were made of ice and were used for simple sliding fun. People would sit in sleds or blocks of ice equipped with straw seats and travel down slopes constructed of ice, sometimes fitted with wooden supports.
This pastime was initially a winter activity for the wealthy, but over time, it evolved into what we now recognize as the modern roller coaster, which features steel tracks and complex loops designed for thrill-seeking amusement park goers around the world.
Business Directory:
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Tampa Bay Rays' Winning Formula: Does It Really Work?
The Tampa Bay Rays are often praised for their innovative, low-cost approach to baseball, but this strategy has significant drawbacks. Despite being consistently competitive, the Rays frequently trade away key players during their contention windows instead of investing in top-tier talent. This pattern has prevented them from winning a World Series, even though they came close with a fourth-best record last season and a recent World Series appearance.
While other teams in sports face harsh criticism for falling short in the playoffs, the Rays receive a pass, largely due to the enduring myth of Moneyball. However, the reality is that most World Series champions come from the highest-spending teams. The Rays’ refusal to spend when it matters most keeps them competitive but ultimately stops them from achieving the ultimate goal—a championship title.
The Ultimate Tampa Bay Summer Market Guide
Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
The Arts
- USF College of the Arts
Theater
-NTPAC - New Tampa Performing Arts Center
- New Tampa Players
- USF School of Theatre & Dance
- Wesley Chapel Theater Group
- Carrollwood Players Theatre
Misc
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