Issue #292: Tampa Tops Dog-Friendly Cities + Big Cat Rescue’s Future + FBI Tracks Terror Suspect

1/17/2025

Author

Ted Grellner
17 Jan

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GOOD MORNING
Today’s issue is about dogs, big cats, and a bad “cat”. Enjoy


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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar

Local News

— Tampa Crowned the Most Dog-Friendly City in America

— Hillsborough’s Big Cat Rescue Land to Be Developed for Housing

Crime

— Tampa FBI Tracks October Visit of New Orleans Terror Suspect

Of Interest

— Foam, Fun, and Festivities: Tampa Welcomes Big Idea Entertainment

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NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Tampa Crowned the Most Dog-Friendly City
in America

Tampa has been named the most dog-friendly city in the U.S., thanks to its abundance of pet-welcoming amenities and vibrant community. From dog-friendly hotels to dedicated parks and restaurants, the city offers an ideal environment for dog lovers and their furry companions.

Tampa boasts 264 dog-friendly hotels with an average review score of 8.31, ensuring a comfortable stay. Popular destinations like Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Davis Islands Dog Beach provide ample opportunities for off-leash fun and scenic strolls. Restaurants such as The Sail Pavilion cater to canine guests with shaded patios and water bowls.

This dog-friendly culture, combined with the city's sunny weather, makes Tampa a standout destination for pet owners. Whether exploring local parks or dining alongside your pup, Tampa provides a perfect blend of comfort and adventure for both residents and visitors.

Hillsborough’s Big Cat Rescue Land to Be Developed for Housing

Big Cat Rescue, the Hillsborough sanctuary made famous by the Netflix series Tiger King, has sold a portion of its land for $19.5 million to Clearwater-based developer Boos Development Group. Approximately 55 acres of the property will be used to build 200 townhomes, while another 11 acres are under contract for a 280-apartment development.

Carole and Howard Baskin, who ran the sanctuary for over 20 years, announced the sale as part of their broader mission to eliminate the need for big cat sanctuaries. The remaining animals at Big Cat Rescue have been relocated to the expansive 450-acre Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas, offering them significantly larger living spaces.

The sale proceeds will fund conservation efforts and initiatives to prevent big cat extinction. The Baskins see this as a triumph, reflecting a reduced need for sanctuaries due to legal protections like the 2022 Big Cat Public Safety Act.

Tampa FBI Tracks October Visit of New Orleans Terror Suspect

The FBI’s Tampa Field Office has confirmed that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, identified as the perpetrator of the deadly New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, visited Tampa between October 26-28, 2024.

While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not found any evidence of criminal intent linked to his time in the city.

The FBI’s Joint Terrorist Task Force has been tracking Jabbar’s movements and reviewing financial records to identify purchases made during his visit. Investigators are also conducting interviews with individuals who may have interacted with him.

Amid growing concerns over Tampa’s upcoming Gasparilla celebrations, the FBI reassured the public that there is no indication Jabbar had significant contact with anyone in the area.

Anyone with information about Jabbar’s activities in Tampa is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

Read More: mysuncoast.com

Foam, Fun, and Festivities: Tampa Welcomes Big Idea Entertainment

Foam on the Range

Big Idea Entertainment, a leading Orlando-based mobile party provider, is expanding to Tampa, offering exciting event options for families.

Known for creating unforgettable experiences, the company specializes in mobile entertainment like Foam Parties, Bubble Shows, Backyard Carnivals, and GelBlaster events. Each service caters to various age groups and is designed to bring fun directly to clients’ locations.

Highlights include the Foam Palooza package, where professional-grade foam cannons turn yards into bubbly wonderlands, and interactive Bubble Shows, which enchant kids with hands-on play and super-sized wands. For action-packed fun, Gellyball Adventures offers low-impact shooter games with unlimited ammo and gear, all overseen by safety instructors. Backyard Carnivals complete the lineup with classic games and festive tents.

Big Idea Entertainment’s expansion aims to make events stress-free for hosts while delivering unforgettable fun for guests. Learn more or book at BigIdeaEntertainment.com.

Read More: cw39.com — looks like fun!

Reader Comments

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25 Biggest Music & Comedy Acts Coming to Tampa Bay
& Sarasota

Source: heraldtribune.com

Best Live Music in Tampa Bay this week

Source:

Top Things to do in Tampa Bay & Wesley Chapel
1/16 - 1/22
Source: tampabeacon.com

This Week in TB area:
1/14 - 1/21
Source: tampabay.com
This Week in NT | WC

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