Issue #207: Big News for Strawberry Festival's 90th Year; Child Vaccinations at Record Low; Hedman Leads Lightning

09/20/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
20 Sep

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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Local News

— The Stage is Set: 90th Florida Strawberry Festival Unveils New Attractions

Of Interest

— New College Faces Financial Questions as Spending Per Student Soars

Medical News

— Florida Child Vaccination Rates Hit Decade Low, Sparking Concerns

Sports

— Victor Hedman Named Tampa Bay Lightning Captain, Succeeding Stamkos


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The Stage is Set: 90th Florida Strawberry Festival Unveils New Attractions

The Florida Strawberry Festival returns to Plant City from February 27 to March 9, 2025, celebrating its 90th year with the theme “The Stage is Set!”

This year, the festival introduces a brand-new soundstage, replacing the 35-year-old structure, to enhance entertainment and attract top performers.

Festival President Kyle Robinson promises a balance of tradition and innovation, with new attractions, vendors, and entertainment planned.

Attendees can expect headline performances, delicious food, agricultural exhibits, and thrilling midway rides as the festival continues to support the agricultural community.

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New College Faces Financial Questions as Spending Per Student Soars

A five-year plan for New College of Florida, which spends more per student than any other public university in the state, has raised concerns among the Florida Board of Governors.

Board member Eric Silagy noted that the college spent over $91,000 per student in 2023-2024, compared to the system average of $10,000.

The plan, requiring $200 million, includes ambitious goals for athletics and student success. However, Silagy expressed concerns about the high costs, especially given the college’s small size.

Corcoran defended the strategy, citing improvements in student retention and diversity through athletics.

Florida Child Vaccination Rates Hit Decade Low, Sparking Concerns

Florida's vaccination rate for kindergartners has dropped to 90%, the lowest in over a decade, causing concern among pediatricians. While 90% may seem high, experts recommend a minimum of 95% to prevent outbreaks of diseases like measles, polio, and chickenpox.

Dr. Rachel Dawkins of Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital notes the pandemic fueled more skepticism around routine vaccines. “We used to see these diseases, and they were deadly. Vaccination prevents that,” Dawkins explained. She stressed that even a 10% unvaccinated population represents a significant number of children at risk.

Victor Hedman Named Tampa Bay Lightning Captain, Succeeding Stamkos

The Tampa Bay Lightning have named Victor Hedman as their new team captain, following the departure of longtime captain Steven Stamkos to the Nashville Predators.

Hedman, a 16-season veteran with Tampa Bay, is regarded as the natural choice for the role. Reflecting on the honor, the 33-year-old defenseman expressed gratitude, acknowledging Stamkos’ influence during his tenure as captain.

General Manager Julien BriseBois praised Hedman as a "cornerstone player" who exemplifies leadership both on and off the ice. Hedman’s impressive resume includes two Stanley Cup championships, playoff MVP honors in 2020, and a Norris Trophy win in 2018 as the league’s top defenseman.

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