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Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Tampa Bay Rays home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Randy Savage

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Nobody can teach me who I am. You can describe parts of me, but who I am – and what I need – is something I have to find out myself.”

— Chinua Achebe

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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 museum is dedicated to the history of the region's African American community?

A) Tampa Bay History Center

B) The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

C) The African American Museum of Tampa

D) The Tampa Museum of Art

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Tampa Bay landmark that is a large pedestrian bridge over the Hillsborough River is D) Tampa Riverwalk

News

💼Business

Tampa-based World of Beer files for bankruptcy. (link)

Nonprofit military contractor has lofty goals with $13M St. Pete facility. (link)

🏒Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Scorned Again In Latest NFL Preseason Power Rankings. (link)

🏦Finance

Climate tech is on the rise in Tampa Bay with a hotshot investor’s help. (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

🚜 Monster Jam
Amalie Arena Tampa, FL
Saturday August 17 | 1:00 PM | (more info)

⚾ Tampa Bay Rays vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
Tropicana Field Saint Petersburg, FL
Saturday August 17 | 4:10 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Ivan Cornejo - Mirada Tour
Yuengling Center Tampa, FL
Friday August 16 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎶 Acraze
The Ritz Theater - Ybor City Tampa, FL
Saturday August 17 | 10:00 PM | (more info)

Family Friendly

📚 Kids Etiquette Class: Lessons for Life!
Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel 4200 Jim Walter Boulevard Tampa,
Saturday, August 17 · 11am - 1pm 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 with a transportation system based on personal drones.” 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

1919: The opening of the Gandy Bridge, Tampa’s first causeway to St. Petersburg.

In 1919, Tampa marked a significant milestone in its transportation infrastructure with the opening of the Gandy Bridge, which served as the city's first causeway connecting Tampa to St. Petersburg. This engineering marvel transformed the way residents and travelers moved between the two coastal cities, revolutionizing regional transportation and commerce. Before the bridge's construction, the only way to travel between Tampa and St. Petersburg was by ferry, making the Gandy Bridge a pivotal development for the region.

The Gandy Bridge, named after its builder George Gandy, was a symbol of progress and connectivity. Its construction allowed for more efficient movement of goods and people, promoting economic growth and facilitating tourism between Tampa and St. Petersburg. The bridge was a testament to Tampa's ambition to expand its reach and influence in the Tampa Bay region, laying the groundwork for further infrastructure development and urban expansion in the years to come.

Today, the Gandy Bridge continues to serve as a vital link between Tampa and St. Petersburg, offering a convenient and picturesque route for commuters and tourists alike. Its legacy endures as a testament to the foresight and determination of those who recognized the importance of bridging the gap between these two vibrant and historically significant cities along Florida's Gulf Coast.

Famous People From Tampa

Randy Savage (1952–2011): Professional wrestler, spent significant time in Tampa.

Early Life and Athletic Beginnings (1952-1970)

Born Randall Mario Poffo in 1952 in Columbus, Ohio, Randy Savage grew up in a family deeply involved in wrestling. He was an athletic child, showing early talent in baseball, which he pursued into his young adulthood. Savage's formative years were marked by a strong athletic drive and a budding interest in wrestling, influenced by his father and brother.

Baseball Career and Transition to Wrestling (1971-1979)

Savage pursued a career in minor league baseball but was hampered by injuries.As his baseball aspirations waned, he began to consider a shift to professional wrestling, following in his family's footsteps.This period marked a significant transition, setting the stage for his wrestling career.

Early Wrestling Career (1980-1984)

Savage started his wrestling career in smaller promotions, quickly gaining a reputation for his intense and charismatic performances.He honed his skills and developed his character, including his iconic ""Macho Man"" persona.His early wrestling years were characterized by his rapidly growing popularity and skill.

Rise to Fame in the WWF (1985-1990)

Savage joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE), where he catapulted to stardom. He became known for his flamboyant outfits, distinct voice, and high-flying wrestling style. During this period, Savage won multiple championships and engaged in memorable rivalries, becoming a household name.

Iconic Matches and Storylines (1991-1995)

Savage's time in the WWF was marked by iconic matches and storylines, including feuds with Hulk Hogan and Ricky Steamboat. He became a two-time WWF World Heavyweight Champion and a fan favorite for his in-ring prowess and charismatic promos.His contributions during this time solidified his status as a wrestling legend.

Stint in WCW and Continued Success (1996-2000)

Savage joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the mid-90s, where he continued to be a top star.In WCW, he won the World Heavyweight Championship and remained a central figure in major storylines. His time in WCW reinforced his legacy as one of the greatest professional wrestlers.

Later Career and Semi-Retirement (2001-2010)

In the early 2000s, Savage's wrestling appearances became less frequent, and he semi-retired from in-ring competition.He made sporadic appearances in various promotions and explored other ventures, including acting and music.Despite stepping back from full-time wrestling, Savage's influence and popularity remained strong.

Connection to Tampa

Randy Savage had a strong connection to Tampa, Florida, where he lived for many years.Tampa served as a base for much of his wrestling career, and he was a well-known figure in the local community. His presence in Tampa was notable, contributing to the city's rich wrestling history.

Personal Life and Legacy (2011)

Known for his intensity, work ethic, and dedication to wrestling, Savage's personal life was as colorful as his professional persona.He passed away in 2011, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and charismatic figures in professional wrestling.Savage's impact on the industry is still felt today, remembered for his unique style, memorable promos, and significant contributions to wrestling's golden era.

Key Achievements

• Two-time WWF World Heavyweight Champion and a major star in the WWF and WCW.

• Known for his iconic ""Macho Man"" persona, contributing significantly to the entertainment aspect of wrestling.

• Left an indelible mark on professional wrestling with his unique style and charismatic performances.

Randy Savage's life was a remarkable journey through the world of professional wrestling, marked by his intense charisma, athletic prowess, and unforgettable persona. As one of the industry's most iconic figures, he captivated audiences with his flamboyant style and high-flying moves. His connection to Tampa was an integral part of his life and career, contributing to the city's legacy in wrestling. Savage's influence in the sport continues to be celebrated, cementing his status as a legend in the world of professional wrestling.

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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