Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• The Tampa Bay Sun women’s soccer team set to make debut

• Lightning make a playoff push

• The story of Wade Boggs

• And more…

Fun Fact of the Week

Tampa is home to the only river in the United States that flows north, the Hillsborough River, which meanders through the city before spilling into Tampa Bay.

The Top Tampa News

💼 Business:

Rays Eye Support for New Stadium with Public Funding:

The Tampa Bay Rays, alongside their development ally Hines, are pitching a plan for a new $1.3 billion ballpark adjacent to their current home at Tropicana Field. Their vision hinges on rallying support from St. Petersburg's business community to back the use of public funds for the project, aiming to create a modern venue that could further invigorate the city's economic and sports landscapes.

🏈 Sports:

Tampa Bay Sun FC: A Trailblazing Women's Sports Team

The Tampa Bay area proudly welcomes its first professional women's sports team, The Tampa Bay Sun FC, marking a historic moment for the region. Under the leadership of Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown, the team will be ready to host some action directly behind Blake High School.

🏦 Finance:

Navigating Property Taxes in Florida: A Guide for New Homeowners

The journey into homeownership in Florida comes with its share of surprises, particularly the rise in property taxes post-purchase. A lack of awareness regarding this increase, and the potential for homestead exemptions, has left many new homeowners in a bind. With property taxes on the rise recently, the issue has gained more attention. To assist, the Community Development Corporation (CDC) of Tampa has stepped up efforts to educate and guide novice homebuyers, aiming to help them navigate these financial waters more smoothly.

Upcoming Events

Sports Events:

🏒 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins

• Date: Wednesday, March 27

• Location: Amalie Arena

• Details: Witness the speed and excitement of professional hockey as the Tampa Bay Lightning take on the Bruins in a game with major playoff implications.

• Tickets: Check Ticketmaster

🏒 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. New York Islanders

• Date: Saturday, March 30

• Location: Amalie Arena

• Details: The Lightning are back in action on Saturday against the Islanders!

• Tickets: Check Ticketmaster

Family Friendly:

🌼 Spring Fest in the Park

• Date: March 29-31

• Location: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

• Details: Celebrate the arrival of spring at Tampa's Spring Fest in the Park! Enjoy three days of family fun, including flower and garden displays, food trucks offering a variety of tasty treats, live music, and plenty of activities for kids of all ages.

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which historic Tampa hotel, known for its Moorish revival architecture, played a significant role during the Spanish-American War?

A) The Floridan Palace Hotel

B) The Tampa Bay Hotel

C) The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

D) The Don CeSar

Last week’s answer:

The Tampa Bay area was originally inhabited by which Native American tribe?

Answer: The Tocobaga Native American tribe

AI Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, Tampa on the prairie…

The Tampa Bay Rays' Inaugural Season and Evolution

In 1998, Tampa Bay witnessed a monumental moment in its sports history with the introduction of the Tampa Bay Rays, an expansion team in Major League Baseball (MLB). This significant event marked Tampa's inclusion into the world of professional baseball, establishing a new franchise that would grow to captivate the hearts of local fans and baseball enthusiasts nationwide. Founded by Vince Naimoli, the team originally known as the "Tampa Bay Devil Rays," began playing their home games at Tropicana Field, a domed stadium that offered a unique experience for baseball fans in the region.

The Impact of the Rays on Tampa Bay's Sports Identity:

The arrival of the Rays transformed the sports landscape of Tampa Bay, adding the excitement of MLB action to the area's sports offerings. Despite facing the challenges common to new franchises, including building a competitive team and cultivating a fan base, the Rays gradually carved out their identity in the baseball community. Their evolution from an expansion team to a competitive force in the American League represented the determination and spirit of the Tampa Bay area. The team's efforts to connect with the community and embrace the region's culture played a crucial role in fostering a loyal following.

Legacy and Success of the Tampa Bay Rays:

Over the years, the Rays have defied expectations, becoming known for their innovative strategies, including pioneering the use of the "opener" pitching strategy. Their approach to building a competitive team on a limited budget has been admired and analyzed across the sport. The Rays' achievements, highlighted by their American League pennants in 2008 and 2020, have not only brought excitement to their fans but also elevated Tampa Bay's status as a sports city. The team's ability to compete at the highest levels of baseball has made Tropicana Field a destination for baseball fans, contributing significantly to the local economy and the area's national reputation.

The Tampa Bay Rays' journey from their inaugural season to becoming a staple of the MLB embodies the resilience and innovation of the Tampa Bay community. As the team continues to build its legacy, its impact on Tampa Bay's sports identity and its contribution to the fabric of the community remain undeniable. The story of the Rays is one of growth, determination, and the unifying power of sports, reflecting the dynamic spirit of Tampa Bay itself.

Famous People in Tampa History

Wade Boggs (1958–Present): Baseball Legend and Tampa's Hometown Hero

Introduction: Wade Boggs - A Hall of Famer from Tampa

Wade Anthony Boggs, born on June 15, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska, but raised in Tampa, Florida, is one of baseball's all-time great hitters. Growing up in the Tampa area, Boggs honed his skills on local fields, developing into a player known for his exceptional hitting ability. His career in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Boston Red Sox, is marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the game, making him one of the most celebrated athletes to come out of Tampa.

Early Life and Entry into Baseball: Tampa's Own Rises to Stardom

Boggs attended Plant High School in Tampa, where his talent on the baseball field began to draw attention. After high school, he was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 1976, setting the stage for what would become a legendary career. Boggs's ascent from Tampa's baseball diamonds to major league stardom was fueled by his relentless work ethic and a batting eye that made him one of the most feared hitters of his time.

Major League Career: Mastery at the Plate (1982–1999)

Wade Boggs made his MLB debut in 1982 with the Boston Red Sox and quickly established himself as one of the game's premier hitters. Over his 18-year career, which included stints with the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Boggs amassed 3,010 hits, a .328 career batting average, and was a 12-time All-Star. He won five batting titles in the 1980s, a testament to his prowess at the plate. Boggs was known for his disciplined approach to hitting, often leading the league in on-base percentage.

Transition to Tampa Bay and Personal Achievements

In 1998, Boggs returned to his roots, joining the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for the final two seasons of his career. His 3,000th hit, a home run, was a memorable moment in both his career and Tampa Bay sports history. Beyond the field, Boggs's contributions to the community and his embodiment of sportsmanship and professionalism have left a lasting impact on Tampa and the sport of baseball.

Legacy and Honors: A Tampa Icon and Baseball Hall of Famer

Wade Boggs's induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005 cemented his status as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. In Tampa, Boggs is celebrated not only for his achievements in MLB but also for his contributions to the community and his lasting influence on young athletes. His legacy is a source of pride for Tampa, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with determination and integrity.

Major Achievements:

12-time All-Star.

Five-time American League batting champion.

Member of the 3,000 hit club.

Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005.

Wade Boggs's journey from Tampa's baseball fields to the Hall of Fame is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to the game. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring baseball players in Tampa and beyond, making him a true hometown hero.

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-Matthew Larsen8