Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• The Bucs are headed back to the playoffs

• Florida gas prices hit 2-year low

• The Bolts are back in action for a 3-game homestand

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on." – Robert Frost

The Top Tampa News from 2023:

💼 Business:

MUFG Bank and Serhant Realty Expand into Tampa: Tokyo-based MUFG Bank, the world's seventh-largest financial institution, and Serhant Realty, a modern real estate brokerage, expanded their operations into Tampa. This move included one of the largest office space leases in the region in the last five years, indicating a significant investment in Tampa's economic landscape. (link)

🏖️ Travel:

Clearwater Beach Hotel Recognized as a Top Meeting Site: The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa was awarded the Readers’ Choice Award by ConventionSouth magazine for the 10th consecutive year. (link)

🍽️ Culinary:

St. Petersburg Restaurant Tops Tripadvisor’s List: Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille on the St. Pete Pier earned the top spot on Tripadvisor’s 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Restaurants in the Everyday Eats category. (link)

📸 Lifestyle:

Tampa Among Top Instagram-Worthy Cities: A study by FloridaRentals.com ranked Tampa as the fourth most "Instagrammable" city in Florida. This reflects Tampa's scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy, making it a photogenic hotspot for residents and visitors ​​alike! (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 Events

🏒 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Los Angeles Kings - Jan 9, 2024 

The Bolts are back at Amalie Arena on Tuesday night when they take on the Los Angeles Kings. Don’t miss the first Lightning game of the New Year!

🏒 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. New Jersey Devils - Jan 11, 2024

The Lightning are right back in action on Thursday night when they take on the New Jersey Devils - welcoming long-time Lightning forward Ondrej Palat back to the Bay.

Music & Concerts

🎭 Company at Straz Center - January 9-14, 2024

Experience the Tony Award-winning musical comedy "Company" at the Straz Center. This groundbreaking show is known for its sophisticated humor and insightful take on modern relationships, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience.

🎼 The Florida Orchestra: From the Beginning - January 10, 2024

Delve into the origin story of symphony with The Florida Orchestra at Ruth Eckerd Hall. The performance features classical giants like Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Mahler, offering a rich musical journey through time.

Family-Friendly Events

🍖 St. Pete Bacon & BBQ Festival - January 13-14, 2024\

Head to Vinoy Park for the 7th Annual St. Pete Bacon & BBQ Festival. Enjoy over 100+ dishes, live music, and craft beers in a family-friendly environment, perfect for food enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in culinary delights.

🦜 Pirate-Themed New Year Extravaganza at Lights by the Bay - January 13, 2024

Join a pirate-themed drone show at Lights by the Bay for an evening of high-flying spectacle. The event features synchronized drones creating pirate scenes and treasure maps, making it a magical experience for families.

🐶 Mutts Gone Nuts at Ruth Eckerd Hall - January 14, 2024

Enjoy a family-friendly comedy dog show at Ruth Eckerd Hall. This event features talented four-legged performers in an action-packed spectacle that combines canines and comedy for an uproarious experience.

🎼 The Florida Orchestra – Sci-Fi Spectacular - January 14, 2024

Embark on a musical journey with The Florida Orchestra's Sci-Fi Spectacular at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Enjoy hits from popular science fiction movies and television, including Star Wars, Star Trek, and more, in a night of stellar musical adventure.

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 Pulitzer Prize-winning author, born in Tampa, is known for "The Yearling"?

A) Ernest Hemingway

B) Zora Neale Hurston

C) Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

D) John Steinbeck

Last week’s answer:

What was Babe Ruth's achievement in an exhibition game in Tampa? 

Answer: Hitting his longest home run - 587 feet

AI Image of the Week

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

This week, aliens invade the Tampa Riverwalk…

Tampa Historical Events

Planting of the Banyan Tree at the University of Tampa (1934):

In 1934, an event of great symbolic significance occurred at the University of Tampa, marking a notable chapter in the city's cultural and educational history. A magnificent Banyan tree was planted on the university's campus, which has since become an iconic landmark. This tree, known for its extensive root system and expansive canopy, was a gift from philanthropist and local real estate developer, G. David Sholtz, who later became the governor of Florida. The planting ceremony was attended by prominent members of the Tampa community, symbolizing growth, strength, and resilience - values deeply embedded in the university's ethos.

The University's Expansion and the Banyan Tree's Symbolism:

The planting of the Banyan tree coincided with a period of significant expansion and development at the University of Tampa. During this time, the university was undergoing a transformation, expanding its academic programs and enhancing its physical infrastructure. The Banyan tree, with its remarkable ability to grow and spread, became a symbol of the university's aspirations for growth and excellence in education. Over the years, it has witnessed countless graduations, events, and has become a beloved spot for students and faculty alike, embodying the spirit of the institution.

The Banyan Tree in Modern Times:

Today, the Banyan tree at the University of Tampa stands as a historical monument, representing not only the university's growth and resilience but also the broader progress of the city of Tampa. It has grown into a sprawling structure, offering shade and tranquility to visitors and members of the university community. The tree has become an integral part of the university's identity, featured in its literature and as a backdrop for thousands of photographs. Its enduring presence continues to inspire current and future generations, reminding them of the university's rich history and its commitment to growth and learning.

Famous People in Tampa History

Cody Fowler (1892–1978): A Champion for Civil Rights and Legal Reformation

Introduction: Cody Fowler - Legal Luminary and Civil Rights Advocate Cody Fowler, born on April 10, 1892, in Tampa, Florida, and passing away on August 9, 1978, was a distinguished attorney, civic leader, and a pioneering figure in the civil rights movement within Tampa and beyond. As a prominent lawyer and the president of the American Bar Association, Fowler played a pivotal role in advocating for legal reforms and racial equality. His legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to justice and community service.

Early Life and Legal Career: Foundations of Advocacy (1892–1930) Fowler's journey commenced in Tampa, where his early experiences in a diverse community shaped his perspectives on racial and social injustices. He graduated from the University of Florida College of Law, quickly making his mark in the legal field. His practice in Tampa gained a reputation for excellence, and Fowler became known for his integrity and advocacy for fair legal practices.

Civil Rights Advocacy and Legal Reforms: Breaking Barriers (1930s–1960s) Cody Fowler's influence was most profoundly felt in his work towards racial equality and legal reforms. In an era marked by segregation and racial injustice, especially in the South, Fowler stood out as an advocate for integration and civil rights. He was instrumental in the formation of the Biracial Committee in Tampa, which played a crucial role in peacefully desegregating the city’s public spaces and facilities. His leadership in the American Bar Association led to significant advancements in legal ethics and practices, setting new standards for the legal profession.

Leadership in Tampa and Beyond: Impacting Change (1960s–1978) Beyond his legal achievements, Fowler was deeply involved in civic activities in Tampa. He contributed to various community initiatives, focusing on improving race relations and promoting social justice. Fowler's efforts were critical during the tumultuous period of the civil rights movement, bringing about meaningful dialogue and action towards racial harmony in Tampa. His legacy in the city is not only as a legal icon but also as a beacon of progress and unity.

Personal Life: Dedication to Family and Community (1892–1978) Cody Fowler's personal life reflected his public ethos of service and integrity. He was deeply committed to his family, and his relationships were founded on the principles he championed in his professional life. Fowler's approach to life was marked by a balance of dedication to his career, family, and community service.

Retirement and Legacy: A Lasting Influence (1970s) In his later years, Fowler remained active in advocating for civil rights and legal reforms. His retirement did not diminish his influence; rather, it allowed him to focus more on mentoring young lawyers and advocating for community causes. Fowler's legacy is etched in Tampa's history as a catalyst for change, a champion for justice, and a role model for future generations.

Major Achievements:

• Pioneering advocate for racial equality and civil rights in Tampa.

• Instrumental in the peaceful desegregation of Tampa's public facilities.

• Served as President of the American Bar Association, influencing national legal standards.

• Founder of the Biracial Committee, fostering dialogue and action on race relations.

• A respected leader and mentor in the Tampa legal and civic communities.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen