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- Issue #271: Tampa Airport Expansion Begins • USF Faces Activism Allegations • New Italian Spot Jay Luigi Opens • Rays Stadium Funding Update
Issue #271: Tampa Airport Expansion Begins • USF Faces Activism Allegations • New Italian Spot Jay Luigi Opens • Rays Stadium Funding Update
12/19/2024
Ted Grellner
19 Dec
Keep your finger on the Pulse!
GOOD MORNING
If you’re a dog lover, Puppy Pals, a show at the NTPAC last night was a winner. I’ve included a couple of images from the show to demonstrate how well-trained these smart little guys were from walking the “high wire” to sheer athleticism, surprising even the trainer.
Our first podcast is now live on Spotify:
Tampa Bay Tidbits: Local and Beyond - this will be a weekly podcast with new episodes to drop on Mondays (though it might be a while before the weekly schedule starts to kick in. Its still a work in progress)
Enjoy and please share with your friends:
Dr Ted
USAF Retired
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse
Our Event Calendar
Local News
— Tampa Airport Breaks Ground on Major Terminal Expansion
— Activists Accuse USF of Civil Rights Violations Over Palestinian Advocacy
Food
— Ciccio’s Jay Luigi Debuts Flagship Italian Restaurant in Tampa
Sports
— Tampa Bay Rays Seek More Funds for $1.3 Billion Stadium Project
🎵 Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
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NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse
Tampa Airport Breaks Ground on Major Terminal Expansion
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is breaking ground on its new Airside D terminal, a state-of-the-art expansion set to open in 2028. The two-story, 16-gate facility will accommodate the region’s rapid growth, boosting the airport’s capacity from 25 million to 35 million annual passengers by 2037.
The terminal will feature an arrival processing area, two airline lounges, and a central hub for shopping and dining. Designed to support both domestic and international flights, it aims to enhance connectivity for the Tampa Bay area expanding international operations and regional access to global destinations.
Activists Accuse USF of Civil Rights Violations Over Palestinian Advocacy
The Tampa Bay Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) has filed a federal complaint against the University of South Florida (USF), alleging violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The group claims USF discriminates against students associated with Palestinians and students of color, obstructing their advocacy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Palestinian rights, including calls to divest from Israeli policies.
SDS attorney Collin Poirot explained that Title VI prohibits federally funded institutions from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. With federal funding making up a significant portion of USF’s research budget, the group argues the university must ensure equal access and protection from harassment or retaliation.
SDS hopes the Office for Civil Rights investigation will lead to meaningful changes benefiting marginalized students on campus.
Walking the highwire ©2024 Ted Grellner
Ciccio’s Jay Luigi Debuts Flagship Italian Restaurant in Tampa
Jay Luigi, an Italian eatery by Ciccio Restaurant Group, opens its largest full-service restaurant and bar in Tampa on December 19. Located at 516 S. Howard Avenue, the venue replaces Luv Child and expands upon the original Jay Luigi in St. Petersburg, which focuses more on quick service.
Known for its Roman-style pizzas, the Tampa location highlights sit-down dining with creative Italian dishes, including Pala (light and fluffy) and Tonda (thin and crispy) pizzas, fresh pasta, shareable plates, and craft aperitif cocktails. Locally sourced veggies and grilled meats further enhance the menu.
This concept is the product of Jason Brunetti and Pizza Chef Vito Recchia, who spent five years honing their craft in Italy. The Tampa opening marks Ciccio’s most significant full-service venture yet.
It’s a high flying dog (PuppyPals) @NTPAC ©2024 Ted Grellner
Tampa Bay Rays Seek More Funds for $1.3 Billion Stadium Project
The Pinellas County Commission approved $312.5 million in bonds on Tuesday to help fund a new $1.3 billion stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays. However, the team immediately announced it cannot cover additional cost overruns caused by delays and wants to renegotiate the July agreement.
The Rays blame delays on hurricane-related setbacks and say construction now won’t finish until 2029, increasing costs beyond their $600 million commitment. The team president warned the project’s future, including redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District, remains uncertain without further funding from the county and city.
Local officials, including St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch, have insisted no additional funds will be allocated. County Commissioner Chris Latvala called for new ownership, citing strained relations with the team.
The controversy casts doubt over the future of both the stadium and surrounding redevelopment plans meant to revitalize the area with housing, parks, and cultural amenities.
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Top Things to do in Tampa Bay & Wesley Chapel
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Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links
The Arts
- USF College of the Arts
- USF Steinway Piano Concert Series
Theater
-NTPAC - New Tampa Performing Arts Center
- New Tampa Players
- USF School of Theatre & Dance
- Wesley Chapel Theater Group
- Carrollwood Players Theatre
Misc
For Kids (Nov-Dec)
- Fun4TampaKids
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