Issue #379: USF Tackles Hurricane Evacuation Confusion • Indoor Sports Arena Proposed for MOSI Site • Record Summer Camp Attendance at USF • Cane Toads Threaten Tampa Bay Pets

In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel
Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar - FIXED

WEATHER 

Local News

— USF Hurricane Experts Tackle Evacuation Confusion

— MOSI Land Eyed for Major Indoor Sports Arena

— USF Welcomes Record-Breaking Wave of Summer Campers

Of Interest

— Toxic Cane Toads Pose Deadly Risk to Pets Across Tampa Bay

🎵 Useful Arts & Entertainment Event Links

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USF Hurricane Experts Tackle Evacuation Confusion

As hurricane season nears, USF geosciences professor Jennifer Collins and her team are surveying residents to understand how they decide to evacuate—or not—during storms. The study, focused on those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, explores how people interpret forecast tools like the Saffir-Simpson scale and hurricane cones, which are often misunderstood.

Findings from previous USF research reveal that many underestimate Category 1 storms, focusing only on wind speed while ignoring threats like flooding. The team’s work is already shaping Pinellas County’s storm messaging, addressing concerns like pets, traffic, and trusted local weather influencers.

With support from partners like the University of Alabama and Auburn, Collins aims to improve emergency communication and save lives. The digital survey, which closes June 1, will inform government and nonprofit strategies ahead of future storms.

USF students play a central role, gaining experience while gathering data at hurricane expos.

Read More: usf.edu

MOSI Land Eyed for Major Indoor Sports Arena

Hillsborough County commissioners have selected land surrounding Tampa's Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) as the top site for a proposed indoor sports arena. The project aims to revitalize underused land, boost museum attendance, and attract new development—including hotels, restaurants, and retail.

The 175,000-square-foot facility would feature 12 basketball and 24 volleyball courts. Only 7 of MOSI's 74 acres are currently developed, making the site ideal for expansion. No land acquisition costs, easy access to major roads, and potential reuse of existing structures helped clinch the decision.

Initial funding includes $2 million from BP oil spill settlements, with the rest covered by sales and hotel taxes. Officials say the arena could become a transformative economic driver, generating 44,000 hotel stays annually and $24.5 million in local business revenue.

The proposal was approved unanimously (7–0) by the Board.

Read More: axios.com

USF Welcomes Record-Breaking Wave of
Summer Campers

The University of South Florida is hosting a record 56 week-long camps from June 2 to Aug. 2, welcoming over 2,500 students from grades 2–12—double last summer’s turnout. Programs range from robotics and filmmaking to Esports, archaeology, and emergency response, with many camps offering overnight stays for high schoolers on the Tampa and St. Petersburg campuses.

New additions include Camp Bullseye, focused on marine science and digital marketing in partnership with St. Petersburg, and a hospitality camp at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, giving teens hands-on experience across hotel operations.

Students will also engage in mock trials, zombie survival simulations, and creative STEM workshops like LEGO engineering and bioengineering. USF’s Rocky’s Residents program lets teens preview college life with dorm stays and evening activities.

USF's summer camps aim to inspire future careers while opening university doors to the broader community, said organizer Caryn Preston.

Read More: usf.edu

Toxic Cane Toads Pose Deadly Risk to Pets Across Tampa Bay

Florida pet owners are on high alert due to the deadly threat of cane toads, especially in the Tampa Bay area. These invasive toads secrete a potent toxin from their shoulders when threatened, which can kill dogs or cats within 15 minutes if ingested, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Cane toads breed rapidly and are often found near water, in yards, and urban areas. To protect pets, experts advise removing debris, eliminating water sources, and never leaving pet food outside.

The FWC encourages humane euthanization, recommending placing captured toads in a freezer. They stress not to confuse them with native southern toads, which are protected.

If a pet is exposed, wipe its mouth with a wet cloth and seek veterinary care immediately. Community education efforts, including talks at the Tarpon Springs Aquarium, aim to raise awareness.

Read More: fox13news.com

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Top Things to do Around Tampa & WC
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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

- The Krate, WC
- The Shops at Wiregrass, WC

For Kids
- Fun4TampaKids

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