Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Tampa’s role in Prohibition

• Will Stamkos remain a Bolt?

• Rock the Park on the 4th of July in Tampa

• And more…

Fun Fact of the Week

On February 26, 1993, the Tampa Bay Lightning made history by hosting the first NHL game ever played outdoors in a warm-weather city. The game took place at the Expo Hall in the Florida State Fairgrounds, and the Lightning faced off against the Chicago Blackhawks. The event was a groundbreaking moment, showcasing the NHL's ability to expand into non-traditional markets and paving the way for future outdoor games in diverse locations.

The Top Tampa News

💼 Business:

Breeze Airways Expands Service from Tampa International Airport

Earlier this week, Breeze Airways announced that it will begin service from Tampa International Airport to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania starting Oct. 18. Fares for the new route start at $79 for one-way tickets if purchased by July 1 for travel by Jan. 7, 2025.

Breeze will also start nonstop service to the following routes in the coming months:

• Manchester, New Hampshire: Thursdays and Sundays, starting Sept. 5

• Bangor, Maine: Mondays and Fridays, starting Oct. 4

• Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania: Mondays and Fridays, starting Oct. 18

🏈 Sports:

The Lightning’s Contract Impasse with Steven Stamkos

With just over 48 hours until Steven Stamkos becomes an unrestricted free agent, the possibility of him leaving the Lightning is realer than ever. Despite expressing frustration over the lack of contract extension talks last summer, both Stamkos and GM Julien BriseBois believed things would work out. On Friday, BriseBois admitted uncertainty about a deal, and Stamkos' agent confirmed his client would test free agency unless the Lightning's offer changed. However, a recent trade has freed up enough cap space for a potential new deal with Stamkos and an extension for Victor Hedman, leaving hope for Lightning fans that Stamkos might still stay in Tampa.

🏦 Finance:

Home Prices Begin to Decline in Pandemic Boomtowns Like Austin and Tampa

Real estate prices surged nationwide during the pandemic, leading to bidding wars and all-cash offers. Now, the tide has turned in some markets. Home prices in cities like San Antonio and Austin in Texas, and Tampa, Florida, saw significant declines in April, according to Inercontinental Exchange (ICE). This shift comes as these markets recalibrate with more listings from homesellers and house builders, while fewer Americans are relocating to these once-hot metros.

Upcoming Events

 🎶 Rock the Park

• Date: Thursday, July 4th, 6:30 PM

• Location: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

• Details: Rock the Park showcases local artists in a grand setting along the northern terraces of Curtis Hixon Park with the City of Tampa skyline as a backdrop. The music genres are diverse, ranging from acoustic and small rock bands, to reggae, country, soul, and R&B.

• More info: Link

🎙️ KC and the Sunshine Band

• Date: Sunday, July 7th, 8 PM

• Location: Seminole Hard Rock Casino

• Details: KC and the Sunshine band will perform in Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa on Sunday, July 7 at 8 p.m.

• Tickets: Link

🛥️ Tampa Dining Cruise

• Date: Friday, July 5th, 5:30 PM

• Location: Yacht Starship (next to Sparkman Wharf)

• Details: Set sail on Yacht StarShip with the ultimate dining cruise and cocktail adventure on the waterways of Tampa Bay.

• Tickets: Link

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 iconic Tampa building was once the tallest skyscraper in Florida?

A) Tampa City Hall

B) Bank of America Plaza C) SunTrust Financial Centre

D) One Tampa City Center

Last week’s answer:

Tampa hosted its first Super Bowl in which year? 

Answer: 1984

Tampa's Role in Prohibition: The Rum-Running Era

Introduction: Tampa's Bootlegging Legacy

During the Prohibition era (1920-1933), Tampa emerged as a significant hub for illicit alcohol smuggling and distribution, earning the city a notorious reputation and leaving a lasting impact on its culture and economy.

Rum-Running and Smuggling: Tampa's Underground Economy

As Prohibition laws banned the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in the United States, Tampa's proximity to the Caribbean and Cuba made it an ideal gateway for smuggling rum and other liquors. Smugglers, known as "rum-runners," used fast boats to bring alcohol into Tampa's ports under the cover of darkness.

Organized Crime and Speakeasies: Tampa's Shadowy Underworld

Tampa's rum-running operations were intertwined with organized crime syndicates, who controlled the illicit trade and operated speakeasies—secret bars where patrons could drink illegally. The city became a haven for bootleggers, smugglers, and gangsters looking to profit from the demand for alcohol during Prohibition.

Law Enforcement and Crackdowns: The Battle Against Bootlegging

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Tampa Police Department and federal agents, waged a constant battle against bootleggers and speakeasy operators. Raids and arrests were common as authorities attempted to enforce Prohibition laws, though Tampa's geography and corruption often hindered their efforts.

Legacy and Culture: Tampa's Prohibition Era

Despite the challenges and risks, Tampa's rum-running era left a lasting imprint on the city's cultural landscape. Speakeasies became iconic symbols of defiance against Prohibition, and the era influenced Tampa's nightlife and social scene long after the repeal of the 18th Amendment. Today, remnants of this turbulent time can still be seen in Tampa's historic neighborhoods and tales of its bootlegging past endure as part of the city's colorful history.

Famous People in Tampa History

Tony Dungy: Leadership and Legacy in Tampa Bay

Introduction: A Hall of Fame Coach and Community Leader

Tony Dungy is a celebrated figure in Tampa Bay's history, renowned for his leadership both on and off the football field. His tenure as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and his impact on the community have left a lasting legacy, inspiring countless individuals and shaping the region's sports culture.

Early Life and Football Career

Born in Jackson, Michigan, in 1955, Tony Dungy's passion for football began at an early age. He excelled as a quarterback at the University of Minnesota before pursuing a career in the NFL. Dungy played for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Francisco 49ers, before transitioning to coaching.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Era: Historic Achievements

In 1996, Tony Dungy was hired as the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, becoming the first African-American head coach in the franchise's history. Under his leadership, the Buccaneers experienced significant success, transforming from a struggling team into a playoff contender known for its dominant defense and disciplined play.

Super Bowl Victory and Legacy

Although Dungy left the Buccaneers in 2001, his impact was profound. He laid the foundation for future success, including the team's victory in Super Bowl XXXVII in 2003, under coach Jon Gruden. Dungy's defensive strategies and leadership principles continued to influence the Buccaneers and the NFL as a whole long after his departure.

Community Engagement and Mentorship

Beyond football, Tony Dungy is deeply committed to community service and mentorship. He and his wife, Lauren, established the Dungy Family Foundation, which supports educational initiatives and provides resources to underserved youth in Tampa Bay and beyond. Dungy's advocacy for education and leadership development has empowered countless individuals to achieve their full potential.

Legacy and Impact

Tony Dungy's legacy extends far beyond his coaching career. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to serving others have made a lasting impact on Tampa Bay's sports community and beyond. Dungy's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016 solidified his place among the greatest coaches in NFL history, while his contributions to Tampa Bay continue to inspire future generations.

Conclusion: Inspiring Leadership

Tony Dungy's leadership and legacy in Tampa Bay exemplify the power of perseverance, integrity, and community involvement. His influence on the Buccaneers and the broader Tampa Bay community underscores the transformative impact of sports leadership and the enduring legacy of a true champion on and off the field.

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-Matthew Larsen