When you get a craving for a sweet treat, you're going to want to find a bakery that can satisfy your desire for something delicious. Luckily, the Tampa, Florida, area has a lot of amazing bakeries that offer a variety of tasty baked goods. Try out one of these locations the next time you're in the mood for something sweet and freshly baked. Sprinkles Located on South Dakota Avenue in the charming Hyde Park historic district, you'll find Sprinkles. This bakery uses artisan ingredients and bakes all their goodies in small batches daily. They offer a wonderful selection of cupcakes, cookies, brownies, layer cakes, and more. You can even have your freshly baked cupcakes and cookies dispensed 24/7 from their cupcake ATM. more HaleLife Bakery If you're looking for baked goods that are gluten-free and vegan-friendly, then HaleLife Bakery is your go-to spot. They're located in Clearwater on Tech Drive, not far from Tampa. The staff here all have food allergies or restrictive diets, therefore, they understand that giving up foods you love can be challenging. This is why they strive to make the baked goods you love in a healthier way. You can enjoy donuts, cupcakes, mini cupcakes, brownies, and cinnamon rolls along with other treats when you visit this location. Alessi Bakeries Alessi Bakeries has its roots in Tampa. Nicolo Alessi, founder of Alessi Bakeries, started making his European-style bread and fresh baked goods for the local community in 1912, and since then, it has grown to become one of the most respected bakeries in the country. At this bakery, you can special order cakes for your next event, or check out their weekly specials to save money on your tasty treat. The menu has a variety of cakes, such as classic flavors, fancy designs, cookie cakes, tres leches cakes, and gourmet cakes. Other options are pastries, fruit pies, and brownie bites. Cake Cuties Bakery The baked goods at Cake Cuties Bakery are inspired by the owner's Southern upbringing. She loves sharing the warmth and joy that comes from eating freshly baked treats. Her entrepreneurial spirit and love of baking started when she began selling her pecan pennies at the age of 16. This bakery still sells these buttery pecan and brown sugar cookies, which are just the right amount of chewiness and crispiness that make it hard to eat just one. They also have cake pops, cupcakes, and a variety of other cookies like chocolate chunk, oatmeal, and white chocolate macadamia nut. Florida Bakery Whether you're hosting a wedding, sweet 16, baptism, or birthday, Florida Bakery has what you need. A family-owned and operated bakery for over 40 years, this place offers Cuban-style cakes and treats that are sure to keep you coming back for more. Try one of their incredible three layer cakes filled with fruit. Options for fillings include coconut, pineapple, guava, and many others. You can also get pastries, international sweets, or a Cuban hamburger. The next time you're in the mood for something sweet, stop by one of these locations. They're sure to have something that will satisfy your craving. Image via Pixabay.com

Drivers with large families used to only have one option when it came to cars that can fit everyone: the trusty minivan. Times have changed, though, and three-row SUVs have emerged as the safer, more versatile, and more comfortable solution. Two of the best three-row SUVs on the market today are the 2020 Ford Explorer and the 2020 Ford Expedition. Standard Equipment The standard trim for both the 2020 Explorer and the 2020 Expedition is called XLT. Although both of them are exceptionally well-equipped for base models, there are some differences between them. The Explorer comes with standard 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, a rearview camera, an 8-inch touch screen interface, and easy smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, or Bluetooth. The Expedition, on the other hand, has standard seating for eight passengers, as opposed to the seven seats of the Explorer. So, depending on the number of people that you need to drive around, this could be an important factor in choosing between the two. Otherwise, most of the standard features on the Explorer, such as 18-inch wheels, the 8-inch infotainment touch screen, and more, can also be found on the Expedition. more Power and Performance The standard engine for the 2020 Ford Explorer is a more than capable turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that's capable of producing up to 300 horsepower and 301 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the 2020 Expedition has a beefier standard engine, a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 with up to 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Both of them have more powerful engines available, however, with the top engine for both being a beastly 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 with 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer also has a hybrid option that offers great mileage and 318 horsepower. Utility and Cargo Space The 2020 Explorer has 18 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. It can be increased up to 47.9 cubic feet if you fold the third-row seats and an impressive 87.9 cubic feet of space with the bottom two rows both folded. Those who are in need of large cargo space should look to the Expedition, however. It has almost twice as much space as the Explorer, with 36 cubic feet behind the third row, an incredible 79.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 121.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the two bottom rows folded. The Expedition can also tow more, up to 9,000 pounds compared to 5,000 pounds for the Explorer. So if you are planning to use your SUV as a true utility vehicle, the Expedition is likely to suit you better. When it comes to picking the right SUV, it's important to consider the aspects and features that work best with you and your family. Although the 2020 Ford Explorer and the 2020 Ford Expedition have different features and attributes, they're both guaranteed to be a reliable road companion for you and your loved ones. Test drive them at a local Ford dealer to see for yourself. Image via Ford.com

Tampa, Florida, is a excellent place to sample seafood because of its prime location in Tampa Bay. We've compiled a list of three of the best seafood restaurants in Tampa, so you know where you can find some of the city's choicest seafood. Eddie V's Prime Seafood Eddie V's Prime Seafood is one of the highest rated seafood restaurants in Tampa. This restaurant serves seafood dishes like Petrossian caviar, shellfish appetizers, oyster plates on ice, soups and salads, and various fish plates. If you're not in the mood for seafood, you should try one of their premium hand-cut steaks. Eddie V's Prime Seafood also offers live entertainment, free Wi-Fi, available valet parking, and large party seating. Be sure to make reservations, so you don't have to wait to enjoy Eddie V's delicious seafood. This seafood restaurant is open for dinner Monday through Thursday from 4-11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 4-10 p.m. more Ocean Prime Another highly rated seafood restaurant you should visit is Ocean Prime. This restaurant serves a little bit of everything, from chilled lobster tail and oysters on ice to sushi rolls and goat cheese ravioli. Don't forget to order a soup or salad and a delicious fish plate for a lip-smacking meal. However, if you want to try something other than seafood, check out their chicken, pork, and prime steak menu options. Ocean Prime is a business casual restaurant and can accommodate private events. Don't forget to make reservations before you swing by this classy seafood restaurant. Ocean Prime is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m. Sunday is open only for dinner from 5-9 p.m. Rusty Pelican Tampa Restaurant If you want an excellent view of the bay, stop by the Rusty Pelican Tampa Restaurant. This seafood restaurant is located right along Tampa Bay and offers a Caribbean flair to its seafood dishes. The menu includes delicious seafood items, such as oysters; fresh clams, fish, and lobster; appetizers like blackened scallops, soups, and salads; and much more. You can opt for something other than seafood, such as New York strip steak, a smoked Cornish hen, or an all-American cheddar burger. The Rusty Pelican Tampa Restaurant can accommodate special events like weddings and business events, but if you want to go with a friend or small group, be sure to make reservations ahead of time. Note that this seafood restaurant takes a short break between lunch and dinner hours. Lunch hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner hours are Sunday through Thursday from 4:30-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4:30-11 p.m. Brunch hours are Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Whether you're just visiting Tampa on vacation or you've lived in the city your whole life, you'll want to check out these seafood restaurants. You don't want to pass up the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood prepared to perfection. Image via Pixabay.com

The 2020 Ford EcoSport is a subcompact crossover that offers plenty of great features at an affordable price. From several trim levels to high-tech equipment to luxurious amenities in the interior, this is one feisty little car that both looks good and drives great. Exterior Styling The 2020 Ford EcoSport is available in four trim levels: S, SE, Titanium, and SES. Sharp lines and a wide stance give the SUB a sporty look. LED signature lighting and halogen projector headlamps light the way for the SE, SES, and Titanium trim levels. With the SES Black Appearance package, your EcoSport can really stand out with a stylish black-painted roof and spoiler, unique hood decal, and luxurious Ebony interior. more Power and Performance The 2020 EcoSport is powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine as standard equipment. This engine gets 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. For more power, opt for the available 2.0-liter Ti-VCT engine with direct injection, which gets 166 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes standard with intelligent four-wheel drive, which gives the EcoSport added traction and offers greater handling and maneuverability on the road. Both engines are paired to a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. With hill start assist, you can switch from the brakes to the gas pedal without the fear of rolling backward. The system works in tandem with the anti-lock brakes and holds the EcoSport in place for up two seconds while you move your foot from the brake pedal to the gas pedal. The sport-tuned suspension in the SES trim provides an even better feel on the road and provides less body roll. It takes curves as smoothly as if you're on the track. Cargo Room With 20.9 cubic feet of space, there's plenty of room for your gear in the back of the EcoSport. The 60/40 fold-flat rear seats give you even more space if you need it, expanding the cargo area to 50 cubic feet. A cargo management system comes as standard equipment on the SE, Titanium, and SEL trim levels. The system features an adjustable rear load floor and shelf that can be customized depending on the size of your haul. With the Cargo Management package, you'll get a cargo net and organizers to keep everything in its place and prevent it from moving around while on the go. Even if your arms are full, you can easily load and unload your car thanks to the rear swing gate. The gate opens wide, giving you easier access to your groceries or gear. High-Tech Gadgetry The 2020 EcoSport doesn't skimp on high-tech equipment. A voice-activated touchscreen navigation and 8-inch color LCD screen allow you to have maps and apps front and center. With FordPass Connect, you'll stay connected with a Wi-Fi hotspot, which is standard in all trims. Jam to your favorite tunes as they blast from the B&O sound system with 10 speakers in the Titanium trim level. Whether you're looking for a commuter to get you to work or just a fun ride to cruise around in, the 2020 EcoSport is the perfect vehicle. Image via Ford.com

When you want a sleek car that not only looks good, but is also good for the environment, look no further than the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid. With high-tech equipment, a comfortable cabin, plenty of power, and top-notch safety features, this midsize sedan is just as perfect for daily commutes as it is for cross-country road trips. The car is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Titanium. Power and Performance All 2020 Fusion Hybrid trims are powered by a 2.0-liter i-VCT Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine and electric motor that cranks out 188 horsepower and 129 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired to an eCVT automatic transmission with overdrive. You won't have to frequent the gas station as often, because the Fusion gets an EPA-estimated 43 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway, and includes a lithium-ion battery. The Fusion is front-wheel drive and has a strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. The hybrid car features regenerative braking, anti-lock brakes, and electric power-assisted steering. The SE and SEL ride on 17-inch sparkle silver-painted aluminum wheels, while the Titanium sports 18-inch premium-painted aluminum wheels. more SmartGauge with EcoGuide While driving any of the Fusion Hybrid trims, the SmartGauge with EcoGuide provides a visual front and center that both reminds you to be mindful of how you drive as well as shows you how you're doing in real time.  The unique dual LCD SmartGauge features a tree branch and the more efficiently you drive your Fusion, the more leaves will grow on the branch. The screens can be customized and configured with the MyView feature and include several modes. With Brake Coach, you can maximize your Fusion's efficiency. In Engage mode, the gauges will appear in separate screens to show you the engine power and power of the lithium-ion battery. In Empower mode, you'll find all the same information as in Engage mode, but you'll also be able to see when you're nearing the gasoline engine on/off limit. The Engage mode also tells you how much power is needed based on how far down you're pressing the gas pedal. Safety Features All trims of the 2020 Ford Fusion hybrid include Ford Co-Pilot360. This safety system features six main components that help you stay safe on your drive. Auto high beam headlamps turn on automatically if low-lighting conditions are detected. The blind spot information system alerts you if a vehicle or person is in your blind spot. The lane-keeping system alerts you with an alarm and flashing lights if you begin to veer out of your lane and will get you back on track. Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking senses when a collision is imminent and automatically applies the brakes to help avoid an accident. The rear view camera makes it easy to see what's behind you when you are backing up. In addition to the active safety features, all Ford Fusion hybrids also include passive safety features, such as a perimeter alarm, SecuriCode keyless entry keypad, and SecuriLock passive anti-theft system. Whether you're an environmentalist or just like driving a stylish sedan, the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid can suit your needs.

If you're in the market for a new SUV, you need to check out the 2020 Ford Escape. There are so many features you'll love, you won't want to look any further. Here are some of the best reasons to buy a new Ford Escape. Trim Levels This crossover SUV comes in five available trims. The S and SE are the baseline models and come nicely equipped. The SEL offers access to additional option packages. The Titanium model has all the bells and whistles that will rival any SUV on the market. There is even a Hybrid version, the SE Sport Hybrid. more Power The Ford Escape comes standard with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine with Auto Start-Stop technology, for performance and economy. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission this power plant is responsive and powerful. Upgrade to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and add the Class II Trailer Tow Package if you need to haul anything. A 3,500-pound towing capacity will get that boat or trailer wherever you need to go. They also offer the hybrid driven model powered by a 2.5-liter in-line 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine. This powertrain also features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and an 88kw electric motor. The battery that supports this system is a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery that is smartly stored beneath the vehicle rather than taking up cabin space. There is also a plug-in hybrid version with a 110-volt charger that takes 10-11 hours to charge, or you can get the 240-volt Level 2 charger that cuts the charge time to 3.5 hours. Every All-Wheel-Drive model has an available AWD Disconnect system. This system disables the rear-drive system when it detects all-wheel-drive isn't necessary, further enhancing economy. Technology The Ford Escape infotainment system is powered by their Sync 3 technology. Accessed through the floating touch screen, you can link your smartphones with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Easily access music playlists, navigation information, and send and receive calls or texts hands-free. Ford's Sync 3 system also uses WAZE navigation and can be equipped with Ford+Alexa. Instantly access your Amazon Alexa account to turn off lights at home, and even get Amazon Prime deliveries to your vehicle. Driver Assist Features The Ford Escape has a suite of available driver-assist features designed to keep you safer on the road. Ford's Co-Pilot 360 technology includes BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) to monitor your blind spots and alert you when making a lane-changing maneuver. A Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking system uses advanced radar and camera technology to identify a potential collision. It will even apply brake pressure should the driver fail to react. An Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go uses the same technology to keep your vehicle at a safe distance in traffic. It will even bring your Escape to a complete stop, and when the road ahead clears it will return you to your preset speed automatically. There are so many features you'll love on the 2020 Ford Escape. Come test drive one today and see which ones you'll love best. Image via Ford.com

Whether you need a truck to haul a heavy load, take you on an off-road adventure, or just get you around town, you can't go wrong with the Ford F-150 Raptor. It offers some great features both inside and out. Its high-strength body and frame construction make it tough and durable, while inside you'll stay comfortable and connected. Let's explore some of the Raptor's best features. Powerful and Capable Performance When you're looking for a versatile full-size truck, the F-150 Raptor is it. Its rugged suspension will help you tackle any terrain. A powerful high-output 3.5-liter V-6 Ecoboost engine gives you a best-in-class horsepower of 450 and 510 pound-feet of torque. Auto start-stop technology helps you save gas and save wear and tear on your brakes. For those weekend adventures with your boat or RV, you'll be pleased with the standard trailer brake controller and trailer sway control. They make towing your toys a breeze. Trail control and a terrain management system allow you to have more control when off-roading. more Technology and Comfort Inside There are plenty of standard and available interior features that make this ride feel luxurious on the inside. Unique trim accents and black carpet flooring with rubber floor mats for the front and rear give the interior a classy look, while being easy to clean after any adventure. Available dual-zone electronic automatic climate control keeps everyone comfortable. Stay connected with the easy to use Sync 3 infotainment system. It allows you to use voice-activated commands through your smartphone to access all your favorite apps. You can also enjoy the benefits of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration. Reliable Safety Regardless of where you take your Raptor, you want to know you'll be safe and secure behind the wheel. With Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, you can drive anywhere with confidence. A blind-spot monitoring system allows you to change lanes with ease. Use the pro trailer backup assist to hitch up your trailer effortlessly. Hill descent control will help you take on steep hills by applying the brakes automatically as needed. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go lets you relax behind the wheel, taking the stress out of driving. Tough Exterior What's the point of having a truck if it's not tough enough to handle any job you throw its way? The F-150 Raptor has a rugged exterior that's ready to take on any situation you need it to. A front grille with unique Ford block lettering lets people know you're proud to drive your Raptor. Halogen quad-beam LED headlamps with black surround, LED taillamps, and a tailgate LED light your way in style. An available tailgate step with a lift assist make getting in and out of your truck bed easy and safe. With all these features and more, you're going to love this full-size pickup truck. If you're ready to take it for a test drive or have any questions about what it can do for you, come in and see us at Elder Ford of Tampa; we're always available for you. Image via Ford.com

If you're in the market for a new SUV, you need to check out the 2020 Ford Escape. There are so many features you'll love, you won't want to look any further. Here are some of the best reasons to buy a new Ford Escape. Trim Levels This crossover SUV comes in five available trims. The S and SE are the baseline models and come nicely equipped. The SEL offers access to additional option packages. The Titanium model has all the bells and whistles that will rival any SUV on the market. There is even a Hybrid version, the SE Sport Hybrid. more Power The Ford Escape comes standard with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine with Auto Start-Stop technology, for performance and economy. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission this power plant is responsive and powerful. Upgrade to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and add the Class II Trailer Tow Package if you need to haul anything. A 3,500-pound towing capacity will get that boat or trailer wherever you need to go. They also offer the hybrid driven model powered by a 2.5-liter in-line 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine. This powertrain also features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and an 88kw electric motor. The battery that supports this system is a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery that is smartly stored beneath the vehicle rather than taking up cabin space. There is also a plug-in hybrid version with a 110-volt charger that takes 10-11 hours to charge, or you can get the 240-volt Level 2 charger that cuts the charge time to 3.5 hours. Every All-Wheel-Drive model has an available AWD Disconnect system. This system disables the rear-drive system when it detects all-wheel-drive isn't necessary, further enhancing economy. Technology The Ford Escape infotainment system is powered by their Sync 3 technology. Accessed through the floating touch screen, you can link your smartphones with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Easily access music playlists, navigation information, and send and receive calls or texts hands-free. Ford's Sync 3 system also uses WAZE navigation and can be equipped with Ford+Alexa. Instantly access your Amazon Alexa account to turn off lights at home, and even get Amazon Prime deliveries to your vehicle. Driver Assist Features The Ford Escape has a suite of available driver-assist features designed to keep you safer on the road. Ford's Co-Pilot 360 technology includes BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) to monitor your blind spots and alert you when making a lane-changing maneuver. A Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking system uses advanced radar and camera technology to identify a potential collision. It will even apply brake pressure should the driver fail to react. An Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go uses the same technology to keep your vehicle at a safe distance in traffic. It will even bring your Escape to a complete stop, and when the road ahead clears it will return you to your preset speed automatically. There are so many features you'll love on the 2020 Ford Escape. Come test drive one today and see which ones you'll love best. Image via Ford.com

Ford's iconic sports car, the Mustang, now comes with an EcoBoost engine in 2020. Here's a look at the 4 top reasons you should drive away with a new Mustang. Exterior Style The 2020 Mustang EcoBoost pays homage to its history with the Fastback design. LED headlights with signature lighting, performance hood vents, LED sequential taillights, and Dual Bright exhaust with rolled polished tips turn heads coming and going. You can upgrade to a blade decklid spoiler, performance rear wing, and a dual exhaust with quad tips for increased performance. The Mustang rides on standard 17-inch Sparkle silver-painted aluminum wheels. Available machine-faced aluminum wheels with ebony pockets or low-gloss ebony painted pockets come in 18-inch or 19-inch sizes. more Power The Mustang is powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine with twin independent variable cam timing. Paired with the 6-speed manual transmission this power plant pushes out 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission is aggressive, and short shifter throws smoothly glide through the gears for excellent launch and acceleration. Ford's Active Valve Exhaust systems allow you to control the noise level of your engine. Set it for Quiet Start in the mornings, or Sport for that thrilling roar. There's also a Normal setting for everyday driving and a Track mode for when you feel like racing. You can also opt for a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. This automatic transmission is optimized for responsiveness and performance. Performance The Mustang comes standard with Selectable Power-Assist Steering, an Independent Rear Suspension, and monotube shocks with grippy bars and cross-axis suspension joints for superior control. It also features Electronic Line Lock and Launch Control systems standard. These are for track use only. You can add available Drive Modes, Stability Control systems, and Ford's MagneRide Damping system for the ultimate performance. The MagneRide Damping system monitors the road with sensors that react 1,000 times per second to changing conditions. The result is a smooth ride over any surface. Driver-Assist Features The Mustang can be equipped with a suite of driver-assist features. A Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection uses advanced technology to identify and alert the driver to a potential collision. An Automatic Emergency Braking system will apply additional brake pressure in emergency situations to help mitigate or even avoid a potential collision. Ford's Forward Collision Warning system with Brake Support also uses this technology to help the driver avoid or mitigate a potential crash. A Lane Keeping system will monitor the vehicle's path in marked lanes. When it detects a drift, it will alert the driver and even apply gentle steering correction to return the vehicle to its lane. An Adaptive Cruise Control system will automatically adjust the Mustang's speed based on the traffic ahead. When the way ahead clears, the system will automatically return the vehicle to its preset speed. There's a lot to like about the new Mustang EcoBoost. Come test drive one today, and see which reasons convince you to drive away with one. Image via ElderFordofTampa.com

Tampa, Florida, is home to several great spots where you can get up close and personal with not only native wildlife, but also animals from around the world. Spend the day mesmerized by the beauty of magnificent creatures at one of these top places to see animals in Tampa. The Florida Aquarium Home to more than 14,000 animals, The Florida Aquarium is the perfect spot to explore the underwater world and amazing sea life. Get up close to both aquatic and terrestrial animals, and learn about their incredible ecosystems. Take a walk through the Florida Wetlands Trails to see otters playing, birds flying around freely, and alligators lounging around. The Moon Bay Exhibit includes a 2,000-gallon habitat where you can touch jellyfish and watch them gracefully drift through the water. Marvel at the beauty of the Green Sea turtle and lionfish at the Coral Reef exhibit, where you'll also find sand tiger sharks, porcupinefish, and moray eels. Kids will get a kick out of touching and learning about some of the more unusual sea creatures in the No Bones Zone. This exhibit includes sea urchins, anemones, sea stars, and sea cucumbers. The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Drive. It is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. more Lowry Park Zoo Interact with numerous amazing animals from around the world at Lowery Park Zoo. The zoo encompasses 56 acres, and includes naturalistic settings and wildlife habitats that are home to more than 1,300 animals. Hop aboard the Expedition Africa safari tram to see giraffes, Maribou storks, elephants, and pygmy hippos. Enjoy close encounters with the Aldabra tortoise and go backstage at the white rhino encounter. Take a stroll along the Florida Boardwalk and Manatee Mangrove to see a variety of exotic animals that are rare or threatened with extinction, such as the Florida panther, manatees, and black bears. Have a seat and watch the Birds of Prey show, where you'll watch birds soar overhead and learn more about them. Head over to the Asia exhibit to see Clouded leopards, Indian rhinos, Malayan tapirs, and warty pigs at play in their own areas. You can even feed Lorikeet in the aviary. Lowry Park Zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. It is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Big Cat Rescue Big Cat Rescue is a sanctuary for rescued cats, both big and small. With more than 60 wild cats in their care, they continue the fight to provide freedom to exotic cats. The sanctuary is open to the public; you can take a walk through the habitats to see large cats, such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers. Additionally, a section for smaller cats is open for you to see bobcats, a Canada lynx, caracals, cougars, ocelots, Savannah cats, and servals. Big cat Rescue is located at 12802 Easy St. It is open Friday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Whether you're an animal lover or not, you'll be in awe of the natural beauty of the animals at these great places in Tampa. Image via Pixabay.com

The Ford Transit Connect is more than just a van. It's a vehicle that connects your business to your customers. Here's a list of 4 things that make the 2020 Ford Transit Connect the perfect vehicle for your business. Trim Levels The Ford Transit Connect comes in two wheelbases. One is designed for cargo use only, and the other is outfitted for up to 7 passengers. Both options come in three trim levels: the XL, XLT, and Titanium. The 2020 edition comes with a possible 92 different configurations when factoring in all the engine, wheelbase, and other options. This is up from 64 in previous models. All trims now come with power sliding side doors. Power adjustable, folding, heated side-view mirrors come standard on the XLT and Titanium trims, as well as rain-sensing windshield wipers. more Engine Options The Transit Connect is powered by a 2.0-liter engine with direct injection. This in-line 4-cylinder is paired with Ford's 8-speed automatic transmission and has an Auto Start/Stop function for additional fuel savings. For fleet customers, the van can be equipped with a 2.5-liter engine with CNG/LPG fuel capability, and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Customers can upgrade to a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, or go for the 2.0-liter in-line 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Driver-Assist Features The Transit Connect now offers a suite of driver-assist systems like their Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. This system uses advanced radar and camera technology to identify potential collisions. It then sends audio and visual cues to the driver, and can even apply additional brake pressure in emergency situations. It can also be outfitted with Ford's BLIS system, a blind spot monitoring system that uses similar technology to alert the driver when a vehicle enters your blind spot. An Adaptive Cruise Control system automatically adjusts vehicle speed based on the traffic ahead. When traffic clears the Transit Connect will return to its preset speed automatically. A Lane Keep Assist system monitors the vehicle's path between marked lanes. The system will alert the driver and even apply gentle steering to return the vehicle to its lane. It also features a Rear Cross Traffic system to alert you when objects cross behind the vehicle when in reverse. Technology The Transit Connect uses Ford's Sync3 technology to run the infotainment system. Accessed through a floating 6.4-inch touch screen, you can link your smartphone to access music, navigation, and more. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Capability allow you to send and receive calls and texts, get directions, and more, all hands-free. Sync3 is standard on XLT and Titanium models, and an option on the XL. Also standard on all models is the 4G LTE modem with Wi-Fi that can support up to 10 devices. An available wireless charging station makes recharging a breeze. There's a lot of great features on Ford's new van. Come test drive a 2020 Transit Connect today and see which configuration suits your business perfectly. Image via ElderFordofTampa.com

Tampa, Florida, is home to an incredible number of wonderful lunch and dinner destinations, but there are times when nothing else will do. It is time for tacos. Take a look at our favorite taco joints in Tampa and try one out when that time comes. Lolis Mexican Cravings Drive down to 8005 Benjamin Road to check out this frequently packed taco restaurant. If you love hand-pressed tortillas and an absolutely authentic taco experience, you'll love Lolis. They make tacos in the Mexican tradition, with less tortilla and a lot more flavor than the typical chain varieties. Patrons adore the al pastor topped with pineapple, the freshly fried sopes, and the fish tacos. The flavors of their dishes are heavy with citrus and herbal flavors. Give their tacos a try, and you'll swear that you have been dropped into the middle of Mexico City. more Acapulco Taqueria For a tasty take on traditional tacos try out Acapulco Taqueria at 1001 North MacDill Avenue in West Tampa. Prepare to be blown away by their chicken and steak packed tacos. Their meats are incredibly juicy and full of flavor. Make sure to make use of the lime and salsa you are given. They are meant to magnify the tastes of the tacos. The owners here find that simplicity is best when crafting a great taco. Give one of their plates a try or customize your own. Either way, you won't leave disappointed. If you like a seasoned heat that comes on slow and doesn't overpower you this is the taco destination you're looking for. Taqueria Emanuel For genuinely great grilled tacos covered in melted cheese, head down to 280 North MacDill Avenue in East Tampa. These folks go heavier on cheese, sauce, and greens than other establishments, and the customers don't mind at all. Their pricing is popular with the people, and their drinks are plentiful. This is no fast food restaurant. It takes time to craft a truly great taco, but they are more than worth the wait. Customers come back again and again for the campechano and cochinita pibil tacos. Give their menu a try, and you'll be back again, too. Bartaco For your choice of traditional or US-style tacos, stroll over to 1601 West Snow Avenue. Gobble up three to five tacos for a filling meal. Bartaco tacos may not be huge, but they are packed with flavor. Look out over Hyde park as you relax with the ones you love and enjoy these great Mexican, Spanish, and American-inspired offerings. Some of their menu choices are surprising, like duck tacos and pork-belly tacos. No matter how many times you visit, you'll always end up full, and you'll never be bored. Tampa tacos are terrific. Keep these restaurants in mind so that you'll know where to go when your taco craving hits. Spicy, sweet, saucy, or covered in cheese, you can't go wrong with a good taco.