Florida Black Bear Captured At Tampa Airport

Yes, there was a Florida black bear at the airport. It wasn't headed to get onto a flight. According to the Tampa International Airport, Tuesday afternoon was the first time it's happened.

The bear was spotted by a TSA employee. It was seen along the fence near Hillsborough Avenue. After being reported to the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, multiple agencies were contacted to help capture the bear.

Those agencies included Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, along with TPA Operations, Airport Police and Tampa Fire Rescue. Collectively, they made sure the bear remained inside a perimeter until it was time to capture the bear.

There were two attempts by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to tranquilize the bear Wednesday morning. Instead, a trap set up was successful in capturing the bear.

In a statement by TPA Vice President of Operations and Guest Experience John Tiliacos:

“Thanks to these critical efforts, there was no risk to any employees or disruptions to Airport operations, reiterating the important rule for all airport employees and guests: If you see something, say something."

The Florida black bear was safely relocated to the Ocala National Forest.

[Source: Tampaairport.com]

Looking for something to do on your day off but can't fathom going outside because of the unbearable heat or heavy rain? Well, we found 10 indoor activities in Tampa that are perfect for rainy days or extreme summer temperatures.

We know everyone's first thought while visiting Tampa is heading to the beach or theme park. But that can be a wasted day if the weather doesn't cooperate. These Tampa indoor activities are perfect for the whole fam.

Temperatures are soaring in Tampa Bay. The average temp in the summer is 90 degrees, adding on the humidity can make it feel like it's over 100 degrees outside. Heat advisories are being issued it seems like every day. When the sun is scorching that badly or it's raining cats and dogs, it makes you rethink your summer plans. We've created a list of the most entertaining indoor activities in Tampa to check out when the heat is just too much. These spots are located all around the Tampa Bay area and some may be offering summer specials.

Sometimes it's even too hot for the beach or pool, but that doesn't mean you have to stay home. These activities are great to do with the kids, or just need to get out of your house. Not only are these activities fun, but most are pretty cost-effective. So don't worry about breaking the bank to escape the heat.

One of Tampa's top attraction! Sea everything living in the Florida waters and more! The aquarium is run by a nonprofit organization and is one of the top aquaria in the US.. Check out their new Birds of Prey exhibit running through Labor Day weekend! Experience this interactive and educational experience featuring birds of prey from around the world, including the Aplomado Falcon, European Common Buzzard, European Eagle Owl and Harris’ Hawk.

You can buy tickets to the Aquarium here

Get an awesome full body workout at this popular indoor climbing gym. Vertical ventures is located at 116 18th St S,  St. Pete. This 20,000 sq ft facility has 40ft tall routes, over 150 routes to climb, 75 climbing lines, and 9 auto belays for beginner climbers. A single visit including climbing gear starts at $25. Click here to see ticket prices, or purchase a membership.

We know this one is partially outside, but TopGolf's bays are meant to be enjoyed during all kinds of weather. The playing areas are surrounded with fans and if it gets too hot for you, cool off inside at the bar. Head there on a Tuesday and pay half price for gameplay. Walk-ins are always accepted but it may be in your interest to book a reservation to make sure you have a spot. You can get half-off your game if you book through the TopGolf app! (For a limited time only, works only Monday-Wednesday).

Sip, socialize, escape the heat, and create fun art! If you haven't tried a painting with a twist class, this is your sign to try it! Don't worry if you're not the creative type, you'll have assistance from artists around the shop to help you. Just follow Bob's Ross words and make "happy mistakes." Take home an art kit or sign up for an upcoming class, click here to see what they'll be painting at the South Tampa location. There are 4 locations in the Tampa area and each store offers different classes.

With so many big hits coming out this summer like Deadpool & Wolverine, Inside Out 2, It Ends With Us, and The Fall Guy there's plenty of opportunity to cool down and catch a flick.

Arcade Bars are the newest fad in Tampa Bay. Combine the love of beer with classic and new arcade games. Lowry Parcade in Tampa is the first one to hit the scene, this  loaded with classic arcade games like Donkey Kong, Galaga, Frogger and so much more.
Other arcade bars around the Tampa area worth mentioning are Reboot in Dunedin and GameTime in Ybor. Check out our full list here

Escape the heat and test your code-breaking, problem-solving, combination-cracking skills at any Escape Room in Tampa Bay. The Great Escape Room located at 300 Madison St #301, Tampa has been voted #1 escape room in the U.S. They have 5 different escape scenarios to choose from as well as two scavenger hunt rooms.

Too chicken to jump out of a plane? Us too, but we still are curious to know what it's like. Experience the sensation of flying in the state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnels, this experience is safe for all ages and is fun for the whole family. Check out prices here, no jumping, no falling, and no experience is needed.

If the heat outside is too much, maybe try some heat in the kitchen. Learn lifelong skills or impress someone you know with a new recipe by taking a professional cooking class at Sur La Table located in Hyde Park! Work with the chef-instructors to learn how to prepare delicious recipes, hone essential techniques and more. See available classes here, they sell out quick, so you definitely don't wait till the last minute to try this.

Like darts, but way more intense. Test your throwing skills and play with friends or family at Civil Axe Throwing located at 1517 East 9th Avenue, Tampa. They even allow you to bring in outside food and beverage (and yes, that does include beer and wine!) Weekday pricing starts at $24 for a 1 hour experience!