Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Janet Jackson performance

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Samuel Gompers

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.“

–John Lennon

Sponsored

Tackle your credit card debt with 0% interest until nearly 2026

If you have outstanding credit card debt, getting a new 0% intro APR credit card could help ease the pressure while you pay down your balances. Our credit card experts identified top credit cards that are perfect for anyone looking to pay down debt and not add to it.

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!

What historic Tampa theater is known for its classic Wurlitzer organ performances?

A) The Tampa Theatre

B) The Straz Center

C) The Ritz Ybor

D) The Orpheum

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The University of South Florida in Tampa was established in B) 1956

News

💼 Business

Related Group's new downtown Tampa district will include a Riverwalk underpass. (link)

Jimmy Buffett-branded cruise ship chooses Tampa for home port. (link)

🏒 Sports

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Marckese joins Tampa Bay Sun FC. (link)

🏦 Finance

Sarasota restaurant space on the market for $2.2 million. (link)

Tampa Bay’s largest office building just sold for $45 million. (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

🎯 1 On 1 Gunz Shooting
Shoot Straight Tampa 3909 U.S. 301 Tampa,
Monday, July 15 | 4:30 - 5:30pm EDT | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎶Sex blood, Livernois, Human Factors Lab, and DJ Christina Zombie in Tampa
New World Music Hall 810 E Skagway Ave Tampa,
Monday July 15 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Janet Jackson: Together Again
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds Tampa, FL
Tuesday July 16 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family Friendly

🌿 Kids' Academy- Florida Friendly Gardening
IKEA 1103 North 22nd Street Tampa,
Monday, July 15 · 11am - 2pm EDT | (more info)

🎸 Guitar Lessons w/ Naomi
Kava Culture Kava Bar, South Himes Avenue, Tampa,
Tuesday July 16 | 1 - 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 “Tampa where each district represents a different season.” 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

1980: Major redevelopment begins in the historic Ybor City district.

In 1980, Tampa embarked on a significant revitalization effort, kickstarting major redevelopment in the historic Ybor City district. Ybor City, once a thriving hub for the cigar industry and rich in cultural heritage, had seen a decline in the mid-20th century. The redevelopment initiative aimed to breathe new life into this historic neighborhood, preserving its unique character while fostering economic growth and cultural renewal.

The restoration and redevelopment of Ybor City involved a careful balance between preserving the area's rich history and introducing new businesses and attractions to the district. Historic buildings were restored, and Ybor Square, a shopping and entertainment complex, was developed as part of the revitalization effort. These efforts brought new life to the district, attracting residents and tourists alike to experience the charm and vibrancy of Ybor City.

Today, Ybor City stands as a testament to the successful redevelopment efforts of the 1980s. It has become a thriving entertainment and cultural district known for its historic architecture, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The revitalization of Ybor City has not only preserved Tampa's heritage but also created a dynamic and unique destination that continues to draw visitors from around the world.

Famous People From Tampa

Samuel Gompers (1850–1924): Labor union leader, organized cigar workers in Tampa.

Early Life and Immigration to America (1850-1867)

Born in 1850 in London, Samuel Gompers grew up in a working-class Jewish family. His early life in England was marked by poverty and hardship, shaping his later views on labor and social justice. Gompers immigrated to the United States with his family, seeking better opportunities.

Early Career and Introduction to Labor Movement (1868-1880)

In America, Gompers apprenticed as a cigar maker, a trade that exposed him to the harsh realities of industrial labor. He became involved in local labor unions, advocating for better working conditions and wages. This period marked the beginning of his lifelong dedication to the labor movement.

Rise in Union Leadership (1881-1890)

Gompers rose to prominence in the labor movement, known for his pragmatic and organized approach. He played a key role in forming the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions. His leadership was marked by a focus on collective bargaining and improving labor standards.

Founding of the American Federation of Labor (1891-1900)

Gompers was instrumental in founding the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in 1886. Under his leadership, the AFL grew to become the largest and most influential labor organization in America. He emphasized skilled labor organization and practical objectives like higher wages and shorter workdays.

Expanding Labor Influence (1901-1910)

During this period, Gompers worked to expand the influence and reach of the AFL. He became a national figure, advocating for labor rights and fair employment practices. His efforts contributed to significant labor legislation and broader recognition of workers' rights.

Labor Movement and World War I (1911-1920)

Gompers' leadership extended into World War I, where he balanced support for the war effort with protecting labor interests. He served on national and international labor councils, influencing wartime labor policies. His pragmatic approach during the war solidified his status as a leading labor figure.

Final Years and Legacy (1921-1924)

In his final years, Gompers continued to advocate for labor rights, both nationally and internationally. He remained president of the AFL until his death in 1924. Gompers left a lasting legacy as a pioneer of the American labor movement.

Connection to Tampa

Samuel Gompers' connection to Tampa was significant through his efforts to organize cigar workers in the city. His work in Tampa was part of his broader campaign to unite skilled workers under the AFL umbrella. Gompers' influence in Tampa helped to solidify the city's place in the history of the labor movement.

Personal Life and Characteristics

Gompers was known for his tenacity, strategic thinking, and commitment to the cause of labor. His personal life was characterized by a relentless pursuit of justice and fairness for workers. Gompers' pragmatic approach to unionism set the tone for the labor movement of his era.

Key Achievements

• Founding and leading the American Federation of Labor.

• Advocating for labor rights and the improvement of workers' conditions.

• Influencing significant labor legislation and policies in the United States.

Summary

Samuel Gompers' life was marked by his unwavering commitment to the labor movement and the rights of workers. As the founder and long-time leader of the American Federation of Labor, he played a pivotal role in shaping labor policies and practices in the United States. His efforts in organizing labor, including cigar workers in Tampa, and his pragmatic approach to unionism, left a profound impact on the labor movement and the fight for workers' rights.

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