Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• AI art of the week

• Upcoming Tampa Bay Lightning home game

• A deep dive into the life of Lykes Brothers

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.”

—Arthur Schopenhauer

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!

Tampa's Lettuce Lake Park is known for its boardwalks through what type of ecosystem?

A) Mangroves

B) Pine Flatwoods

C) Hardwood Hammock

D) Cypress Swamps

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Tampa Bay sports team that plays professional soccer is D) Tampa Bay Rowdies

News

💼Business

Billion-dollar Tampa RV company announces new CEO. (link)

New Tampa Downtown Partnership CEO wants to bring storefronts to life. (link)

🏒Sports

Bucs’ Vita Vea day to day after injury in Detroit. (link)

Tampa Bay Lightning Superstar Tops NHL 25 RW Rankings. (link)

🏦Finance

New York investor pays $137M for Tampa Bay hotel. (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

🏒 Tampa Bay Lightning v Carolina Hurricanes
Amalie Arena Tampa, FL
Tuesday September 24 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 The Red Pears, Ultra Q, and The High Curbs in Tampa
Crowbar 1812 17th Street North Tampa,
Tuesday September 24 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Sexyy Red 4 President Tour
Amalie Arena Tampa, FL
Wednesday September 25 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎶 Epik High
The Ritz Theater - Ybor City Tampa, FL
Wednesday September 25 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family Friendly

🔍 Scavenger Hunt Tampa
2902 N Shoreview Pl Tampa,
Tuesday, September 24 | 2pm 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 “Futuristic urban zoo in Tampa with holographic animals.” 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

1985: Tampa witnesses major urban development and a real estate boom.

In 1985, Tampa experienced a significant urban development and real estate boom, transforming the city's skyline and urban landscape. This period marked a dynamic phase in Tampa's history as the city saw a surge in commercial and residential construction, leading to a revitalized downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. The real estate boom was driven by a combination of factors, including population growth, favorable economic conditions, and increased interest from investors and developers.

During this era, numerous high-rise buildings and condominium complexes reshaped Tampa's downtown core, offering a mix of residential, office, and retail spaces. The development also extended to the waterfront, with the construction of the Tampa Convention Center and the development of the Channelside District, adding to the city's appeal as a destination for business and entertainment. The boom significantly contributed to Tampa's economic growth and solidified its position as a major metropolitan area in Florida.

The urban development and real estate boom of 1985 left a lasting impact on Tampa's urban fabric, shaping the city's modern skyline and infrastructure. It reflected Tampa's ambition to create a vibrant, thriving urban center that catered to the needs and aspirations of its residents and businesses. Today, the legacy of this period continues to be visible in Tampa's dynamic real estate market, making it a city with a thriving urban core and a magnet for those seeking the best of both business and lifestyle opportunities.

Famous People From Tampa

Lykes Brothers (19th-20th century): Founders of a major agribusiness and shipping conglomerate in Tampa.

Early Beginnings and Family Roots (Late 19th Century)

The Lykes Brothers' story began in the late 19th century with Dr. Howell Tyson Lykes, who left his medical practice to take over his family’s 500-acre farm in Florida after the Civil War. The Lykes family initially engaged in cattle ranching and citrus farming, laying the groundwork for their future business empire. This early period was marked by the Lykes family’s growing involvement in agricultural activities in and around Tampa.

Expansion into Cattle Ranching (Early 20th Century)

The Lykes Brothers expanded their operations into one of the largest cattle ranching businesses in Florida. Their innovative approach to cattle ranching played a significant role in the development of the industry in the state. During this time, they began exploring additional business avenues, including shipping, to transport their cattle.

Diversification into Shipping and Trade (1910-1929)

Recognizing the potential of the shipping industry, the Lykes Brothers ventured into maritime transportation, initially to support their cattle business.They acquired their first steamship in 1900 and rapidly expanded their fleet, eventually establishing the Lykes Bros. Steamship Company.This era saw the transformation of the Lykes family business from purely agricultural to a diversified conglomerate.

Great Depression and Business Adaptation (1930-1945)

The Lykes Brothers navigated the challenges of the Great Depression by diversifying their business and exploring new markets.During World War II, their shipping line played a crucial role in supporting the war effort, further establishing their significance in the industry.Despite economic challenges, this period was marked by strategic growth and resilience.

Post-War Expansion and Global Reach (1946-1960)

In the post-war era, the Lykes Brothers continued to expand, establishing a global presence in shipping and trade.They diversified into other areas, including paper manufacturing, insurance, and real estate, becoming a major business conglomerate.The company's growth during this time solidified its status as a key player in international trade and business.

Innovations in Shipping and Technology (1961-1975)

The Lykes Brothers were pioneers in adopting new technologies in shipping, such as containerization, enhancing efficiency and global reach.Their innovative approach positioned them as leaders in the maritime shipping industry. The company’s advancements during this period reflected a commitment to innovation and global business leadership.

Legacy and Community Impact in Tampa (1976-1985)

The Lykes family’s impact on Tampa extended beyond their business activities, contributing significantly to the city’s development and economy. They were involved in various philanthropic endeavors and played a key role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Tampa.The Lykes Brothers' legacy in Tampa is evident in the city’s growth and development as a major business and cultural center.

Modernization and Corporate Changes (1986-1995)

In the late 20th century, the Lykes Brothers continued to modernize and adapt to changing global business environments. The company underwent corporate restructuring and strategic refocusing to maintain its competitive edge. This period was characterized by a continued evolution in response to global economic trends.

Final Years and Enduring Influence (1996-2010)

Despite challenges, the Lykes Brothers' business endured into the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a testament to their enduring legacy. The company’s influence extended across multiple industries, from agriculture to global shipping.The Lykes family name remained synonymous with entrepreneurship, innovation, and community involvement in Tampa.

Connection to Tampa

The Lykes Brothers' connection to Tampa was integral to their business operations and the city’s development. As one of the city’s leading business conglomerates, they played a significant role in shaping Tampa’s economy and infrastructure.Their contributions to Tampa’s development, both economically and culturally, were substantial and long-lasting.

Key Achievements

• Built one of the largest cattle ranching operations in Florida.

• Established the Lykes Bros. Steamship Company, becoming a leader in global shipping and trade.

• Diversified into multiple business sectors, contributing significantly to Tampa’s growth and development.

The Lykes Brothers' remarkable journey from a small farming operation to a global business conglomerate exemplifies entrepreneurship and adaptability. Their significant contributions to the cattle ranching and shipping industries, coupled with their impact on Tampa’s economic and cultural development, left an enduring legacy. The Lykes family name remains synonymous with innovation, business acumen, and community involvement, marking their indelible impact on Tampa and beyond.

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

Poll