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Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Tampa Bay Times cuts workforce

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Mabel Norris Reese

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself.”

—Mark Caine

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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 Tampa Bay area aquarium is known for its large collection of marine life and interactive exhibits?

A) Lowry Park Zoo

B) The Florida Aquarium

C) Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

D) Adventure Island

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: 

The Tampa Bay sports team that plays at Raymond James Stadium is A) Tampa Bay Buccaneers"

News

💼Business

Tampa Bay Times cuts workforce, signs St. Pete content partnership. (link)

Solar streetlights designed in Tampa may illuminate roads across southern US. (link)

🏒Sports

Former Quarterback Believes Baker Mayfield Can Take Buccaneers to Super Bowl. (link)

Rays' Shane Baz, Rob Brantly team up for triumphant comebacks as Tampa Bay beats A's. (link)

🏦Finance

Tampa office tower secures a $32 million refinance loan. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏋️ Ashlete HIIT Camp
1100 North 50th Street, Tampa, FL,
Monday August 26 | 5:30 - 6:30pm EDT | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Charley Crockett
Jannus Live Saint Petersburg, FL
Monday, August 26 | 5:30 - 6:30pm EDT | (more info)

🎸 Stone Temple Pilots The Jubilee Tour
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds Tampa, FL
Wednesday August 28 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Family Friendly

🍪 Purrfectly Sweet: Cat Cookie Decorating for a Cause
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay 3607 North Armenia Avenue Tampa,
Wednesday, August 28 · 6 - 8pm EDT | (more info)

Image of the Week

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

This week, I typed in “Tampa celebrating a futuristic holiday with unique traditions.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Tampa Historical Events

1930s: The cigar industry in Tampa faces challenges during the Great Depression.

During the 1930s, Tampa's iconic cigar industry, which had thrived for decades, faced immense challenges amidst the economic turmoil of the Great Depression. The cigar industry had long been a cornerstone of Tampa's economy and culture, with the city known as the ""Cigar Capital of the World."" However, the 1930s brought a series of hardships that tested the resilience of the industry and its workers.

The Great Depression led to a sharp decline in consumer spending, impacting the demand for cigars and luxury goods. As a result, many cigar factories in Tampa faced reduced production, layoffs, and even closures. Thousands of cigar workers, primarily Cuban and Spanish immigrants, grappled with unemployment and financial hardship, and the tight-knit Ybor City community felt the brunt of these challenges.

Despite the difficult times, the cigar industry in Tampa persevered. Some manufacturers adapted by introducing lower-cost cigar brands to cater to changing consumer preferences. The industry also received a boost during World War II, as cigars were included in soldiers' rations. While the Great Depression left an indelible mark on Tampa's cigar industry, its survival and adaptation showcased the resilience of both the industry and the diverse immigrant communities that had built it, ensuring that Tampa's cigar-making heritage continued to thrive in the years to come.

Famous People From Tampa

Mabel Norris Reese (1914–1995): Journalist who fought against racism and injustice.

Early Life and Education (1914-1932)

Born in 1914, Mabel Norris Reese grew up during a period of significant social change in the United States. Her early life was marked by a burgeoning interest in writing and journalism, influenced by the social issues of her time. Reese's formative years were characterized by a deepening awareness of societal injustices and a desire to address them through journalism.

Beginning of Journalism Career (1933-1945)

Reese began her career in journalism in the 1930s, a time when the field was dominated by men. She worked for various newspapers, honing her skills in reporting and writing.Her early career was marked by a growing reputation for tenacity and integrity in her reporting.

Establishing Herself as a Journalist (1946-1955)

Reese established herself as a respected journalist, known for her incisive reporting and willingness to tackle tough issues. She became editor of the ""Mount Dora Topic,"" a small Florida newspaper, where she began to make her mark. During this period, Reese's journalism started to reflect her deep commitment to social justice.

Fighting Racial Injustice in the South (1956-1965)

Reese became known for her courageous reporting on racial injustice in the South, particularly in Lake County, Florida. She covered controversial cases, including the wrongful conviction of four African American men, known as the Groveland Four. Her reporting during this time highlighted racial tensions and injustices, often at great personal risk.

Championing Civil Rights and Facing Backlash (1966-1975)

As a vocal supporter of the Civil Rights Movement, Reese used her platform to advocate for equality and justice.Her unwavering stance against racism and injustice led to backlash, including threats and violence against her.Despite the challenges, Reese continued her fearless reporting, earning admiration and respect for her bravery.

Later Career and Continued Advocacy (1976-1985)

In her later career, Reese remained dedicated to journalism and advocacy, continuing to write and speak out against injustice. She moved to Daytona Beach and worked for the ""Daytona Beach News-Journal,"" maintaining her focus on social issues. Reese's later work solidified her legacy as a relentless champion of truth and justice.

Final Years and Recognition (1986-1995)

In her final years, Reese's contributions to journalism and civil rights were increasingly recognized and celebrated. She remained active in the journalistic community, mentoring younger journalists and sharing her experiences. Reese passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of courageous journalism and advocacy.

Connection to Tampa

While Mabel Norris Reese's most notable work was in Lake County, she had connections to Tampa through her journalistic endeavors in Florida.Her reporting on racial injustice in the state resonated with the experiences of communities in Tampa and beyond. Reese's impact as a journalist in Florida included influencing the public discourse around civil rights and justice in cities like Tampa.

Personal Life and Characteristics

Reese was known for her fearless pursuit of truth, relentless advocacy for justice, and commitment to ethical journalism.Her personal life was characterized by resilience in the face of adversity and a deep commitment to societal change.Reese's work was driven by a profound sense of responsibility to use journalism as a tool for social justice.

Key Achievements

• Renowned for her courageous reporting on racial injustice in Florida, particularly the Groveland Four case.

• Served as editor of the ""Mount Dora Topic,"" using the platform to champion civil rights and justice.

• Recognized for her significant contributions to journalism and civil rights advocacy.

Mabel Norris Reese's career as a journalist was marked by her unwavering commitment to fighting racial injustice and advocating for civil rights. Through her bold reporting and editorial work, particularly in Lake County, Florida, she exposed societal injustices and championed the cause of the marginalized and wronged. Her legacy as a fearless journalist and a staunch advocate for truth and justice continues to inspire, reflecting her profound impact on journalism and civil rights advocacy.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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