Issue #192: New TV Pilot Highlights Tampa’s Hidden Gems + Bonchon’s Arrival + Debt Relief for Floridians

08/30/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
30 Aug

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

— NHC Tracks Potential Storm as Hurricane Season Nears Peak

Local News

— New TV Pilot Showcases Tampa Bay’s Hidden Gems

Food

— Bonchon Brings Famous Korean Fried Chicken to Tampa on Sept. 11

Business News

— Overwhelmed by Debt? How Nonprofits Are Helping Floridians Reclaim Financial Control

Sports

— Tampa Hosts Tourism Conference, Focuses on Sports as Key Growth Area


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NHC Tracks Potential Storm as Hurricane Season Nears Peak

The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a system with a 40% chance of development as it heads toward the Caribbean, coinciding with the peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Although the season is expected to be active, with up to 25 named storms, no immediate threats are present. Meteorologists advise staying informed but not panicking.

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New TV Pilot Showcases Tampa Bay’s Hidden Gems

This month, a new TV show pilot is being filmed across Tampa Bay, showcasing local landmarks like the University of Tampa and various eateries. The project is led by Talon Entertainment, one of the area’s newest production companies, founded by Steve Demmler in 2023. Demmler, whose parents were entrenched in the entertainment industry—his father was a long-time stagehand at "Saturday Night Live" and his mother was a Rockette—began his career working alongside his father on SNL.

Demmler sees immense potential in Tampa Bay’s talent pool and aims to create high-quality productions without the need to leave the area.

The pilot, "The Feather Detectives," is being filmed with a predominantly local cast and crew. Talon’s Head of Production, Tony Armer, emphasizes the opportunities they’re creating for those looking to break into the industry without moving to Hollywood.

Bonchon Brings Famous Korean Fried Chicken to Tampa on Sept. 11

Bonchon, the highly regarded South Korean fried chicken chain, is set to open its first Tampa location on September 11. This new eatery will be situated at 2308 E Fletcher Ave., the former site of Taco Bus.

Known for its signature double-fried, extra crispy Korean wings, Bonchon will offer a diverse menu including bibimbap bowls, pork belly buns, Korean tacos, bulgogi fries, and a full selection of beer and wine.

Bonchon first made its Florida debut in Orlando in 2017 and has since expanded within the state, with locations in St. Johns and Jacksonville. The chain's arrival in Tampa adds to the city’s vibrant food scene, which already features several notable Korean fried chicken spots such as Ganchu, K-Chicken & Grill, bb.q Chicken, and Soul of Korea.

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Overwhelmed by Debt?

How Nonprofits Are Helping Floridians Reclaim Financial Control

Floridians are struggling with high credit card debt, with the state ranking among the top ten nationwide. A recent report reveals that total U.S. credit card debt hit a record $1.14 trillion in the second quarter of 2024.

One Floridian, Nick Malapit, faced $27,000 in debt after relying on credit cards to cover daily expenses. Despite making regular payments, high interest rates kept him from reducing his balance.

To regain control of his finances, Malapit turned to Money Management International (MMI), a nonprofit offering free financial counseling and debt management services. MMI helped him create a budget, prioritize payments, and negotiate lower interest rates with credit card companies. This allowed him to finally reduce his debt.

MMI advises those struggling with debt to create a budget, focus on high-interest debts, and seek professional help if needed. Their services have been a lifeline for many Floridians on the path to financial recovery.

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Tampa Hosts Tourism Conference, Focuses on Sports as Key Growth Area

The Tampa Convention Center is hosting the Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism, highlighting sports as a crucial driver for future growth. 

Hillsborough County recently reported its most successful June in tourism, generating over $5 million. Florida welcomed nearly 75 million visitors in the first half of the year, surpassing last year’s figures.

Sports tourism is a major focus, with events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four returning to Tampa next spring, expected to draw large crowds. Local leaders are eager to repeat the success of 2019, when the event nearly filled downtown hotels.

The new Tampa Bay Rays stadium, opening in 2028 in St. Petersburg, and upcoming major sports events in Orlando and Miami, are set to further enhance Florida’s appeal as a premier destination.

An unexpected fact about tourism in New Tampa might be its nature preserves and parks that offer a serene escape within the city's bounds.

Unlike more well-known Florida destinations famous for beaches or theme parks, New Tampa provides a unique blend of urban and natural attractions.

For instance, places like the Flatwoods Wilderness Park are not only significant for their ecological value but also attract outdoor enthusiasts for biking, hiking, and wildlife observation, providing a quieter, nature-focused side to Tampa's tourism scene.

This contrast to the typical tourist hotspots offers a fresh perspective and is a delightful surprise to many visitors looking for tranquility and natural beauty in an urban setting.

The Ultimate Tampa Bay Summer Market Guide 

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