Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Mike Alstott: A Tampa legend

• Guess the median home price in Tampa

• Tyler Childers comes to the Florida State Fairgrounds

• And more…

Fun Fact of the Week

Tampa is home to the world's longest continuous sidewalk! Bayshore Boulevard stretches 4.5 miles along the city's waterfront, offering scenic views of Tampa Bay. It's a popular spot for joggers, cyclists, and walkers, and it's lined with historic homes, beautiful parks, and vibrant public art, making it a beloved landmark in Tampa.

The Top Tampa News

💼 Business:

SouthState Bank leaving Midtown for Downtown Tampa

SouthState's move goes against a trend of companies leaving the central business district for mixed-use districts.

🏈 Sports:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers team psychologist emphasizes mental health

Tampa Bay Buccaneers team sports psychologist Dr. Joe Carella helps players' performance on and off the field, emphasizing that athletes are just as vulnerable as anyone else. He notes that the stigma around seeking help is shrinking and prefers the term "mental fitness" to "mental health." Bucs receiver Chris Godwin, entering his eighth NFL season, acknowledges the universal challenges of life, stating, "There’s no telling the different curve balls that life will throw at us. But one thing that is certain is that all of us will go through something."

🏦 Finance:

April 14-20 is the best time to sell a house, realtors say

Here in the Tampa Bay area, the housing market favors sellers as people continue to move here and look for housing. Across the U.S., the week of April 14-20 is considered the best week to list a house, according to Realtor.com. However, with more "realistic" expectations, potential homebuyers can expect a slightly better market. This change isn't necessarily bad for sellers either. The Tampa Bay area remains a seller's market, with more people looking for homes than homes available.

Upcoming Events

🎶 Tyler Childers - Mule Pull ‘24 Tour

• Date: Wednesday, June 5th, 7 PM

• Location: Florida State Fairgrounds

• Details: Grammy-nominated country singer-songwriter Tyler Childers /w special guests Valerie June & Willi Carlisle will perform live at The Florida State Fairgrounds on June 5, 2024.

• Tickets: Link

👟 Armature Works Run Club

• Date: Wednesday, June 5th, 7 PM

• Location: Armature Works

• Details: Join us at Armature Works for a 5k on the Riverwalk followed by great food and drinks within Heights Public Market. A short warm up will begin at 6:30pm.

• More information: Link 

🎶 Luis Miguel

• Date: Tuesday, June 4th, 7 PM

• Location: Amalie Arena

• Details: Latin superstar Luis Miguel will perform live at Amalie Arena on June 4, 2024.

• 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!

As of 2023, what is the approximate median home price in the Tampa Bay area?

A) $275,000

B) $325,000

C) $375,000

D) $425,000

Last week’s answer:

In what year was the University of South Florida founded in Tampa?

Answer: 1960

The 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane: Rebuilding Amidst the Storm's Wrath

Introduction: A City in the Path of Destruction

In the early hours of October 25, 1921, Tampa found itself in the crosshairs of one of the most powerful hurricanes to ever strike the region: the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane. This catastrophic storm unleashed its fury upon the city, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake and forever altering the course of Tampa's history.

The Fury of Nature: The Hurricane's Assault

As the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane bore down on the city, torrential rains and ferocious winds lashed the coastline, inundating low-lying areas and inundating neighborhoods with floodwaters. The storm surge, coupled with the hurricane's intense winds, wrought havoc upon Tampa's infrastructure, toppling buildings, uprooting trees, and inundating streets with debris.

A City in Ruins: The Aftermath of Destruction

In the wake of the hurricane's passage, Tampa lay in ruins, its once-thriving neighborhoods reduced to rubble and its residents grappling with the enormity of the disaster. Homes were destroyed, businesses were shuttered, and countless lives were forever changed by the storm's fury. The road to recovery seemed long and arduous, but amidst the devastation, a resilient spirit began to emerge.

Rebuilding from the Ashes: The Spirit of Resilience

In the months and years that followed the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane, the people of Tampa rallied together with remarkable resilience and determination. Volunteers poured into the city to offer aid and assistance, while civic leaders worked tirelessly to coordinate relief efforts and chart a path forward. Slowly but surely, Tampa began to rebuild from the ashes, laying the foundation for a brighter future.

A City Transformed: The Legacy of Resilience

Today, the scars of the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane are still visible in the city's landscape, serving as a reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of human existence. Yet, amidst the wreckage, a testament to Tampa's resilience and fortitude stands tall. The rebuilding efforts that followed the storm's passage transformed the city, spurring new growth, innovation, and opportunity. As Tampa continues to evolve and thrive, the legacy of the 1921 hurricane endures as a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience that defines the city and its people.

Famous People in Tampa History

Mike Alstott: A Tampa Bay Buccaneers Legend

Introduction: A Football Icon in the Heart of Tampa

Mike Alstott, affectionately known as "The A-Train," etched his name into the annals of Tampa Bay Buccaneers history through his bruising running style, unwavering toughness, and unparalleled passion for the game. As one of the most beloved figures in the franchise's history, Alstott endeared himself to fans with his blue-collar work ethic, selfless team-first mentality, and iconic touchdown celebrations, leaving an indelible mark on the city of Tampa and the hearts of Buccaneers faithful everywhere.

From Purdue to Tampa: A Journey to NFL Stardom

Mike Alstott's journey to NFL stardom began at Purdue University, where he emerged as one of the most dominant running backs in college football. Known for his powerful running style and nose for the end zone, Alstott garnered attention from scouts across the league and was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 1996 NFL Draft. From the moment he stepped onto the field at Raymond James Stadium, Alstott's impact on the Buccaneers was immediate and undeniable.

The Heartbeat of the Buccaneers: A-Train's Impact on the Field

During his illustrious 12-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Mike Alstott established himself as one of the most versatile and dynamic players in the league. Whether he was bulldozing through defenders as a running back, rumbling downfield as a fullback, or catching passes out of the backfield, Alstott's relentless determination and unmatched physicality made him a force to be reckoned with on game day. His ability to consistently deliver in clutch situations and lead by example earned him the respect and admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

A Champion's Legacy: Super Bowl Glory and Beyond

Mike Alstott's impact on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers extends far beyond the gridiron. As a key member of the team's historic Super Bowl XXXVII championship squad, Alstott played an instrumental role in bringing the Lombardi Trophy to Tampa Bay for the first time in franchise history. His gritty performances and unwavering leadership during the Buccaneers' championship run endeared him to fans and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in team history.

Conclusion: Forever A-Train

Though his playing days may be behind him, Mike Alstott's legacy continues to loom large in the hearts and minds of Buccaneers fans everywhere. As a member of the Buccaneers Ring of Honor and a beloved ambassador for the team, Alstott remains a cherished symbol of Tampa Bay's rich football tradition and a shining example of perseverance, dedication, and passion both on and off the field. As Buccaneers faithful continue to cheer on their beloved team, they do so with the knowledge that Mike Alstott's spirit will forever be riding alongside them, leading the charge with the unstoppable force of the A-Train.

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-Matthew Larsen