Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Azola South Tampa sells for $64.3 million

• Upcoming Tampa Bay Rays game

• A deep dive into the life of Gabby Pahinui

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”

— Maya Angelou

Sponsored

10 Minutes a Day Is All You Need to Start Speaking a New Language

Lost in translation? Don't let language barriers hold you back! Babbel equips you with the essential communication skills you need to navigate any travel situation. 

From asking for directions in Tokyo to ordering delicious food in Rome, Babbel makes you feel confident and prepared. Take advantage of Babbel’s Birthday Sale and start your Babbel subscription for 60% off to unlock a world of possibilities!

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 is the name of the major expressway that runs north-south through Tampa?

A) I-275

B) I-75

C) I-4

D) The Selmon Expressway

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The historic Tampa hotel known for its distinctive pink color and Gulf of Mexico view is B) The Don CeSar

News

💼Business

St. Petersburg's YMCA redevelopment aims for the retail success of Tampa's Hyde Park. (link)

🏒Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield in 'Best Shape' of His Career. (link)

Tampa Bay Rays reportedly scouting New York Yankees prospects ahead of MLB trade deadline. (link)

🏦Finance

$1.1B St. Pete community bank expands into health care lending. (link)

Azola South Tampa sells for $64.3 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

⚾ Tampa Bay Rays vs. Miami Marlins
Tropicana Field Saint Petersburg, FL
Tuesday July 30 | 6:50 PM | (more info)

⚾ Tampa Bay Rays vs. Miami Marlins
Tropicana Field Saint Petersburg, FL
Wednesday July 31 | 12:10 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Jonas Brothers
Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Event Center Tampa, FL
Wednesday July 31 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family Friendly

⛳ Junior Golf Summer Camp
Tampa Bay Downs Golf Driving Range
Monday, July 29 · 9am - 12pm EDT (more info)

📸 Snapshot Quest Photo Scavenger Hunt Game
City Center 2902 N Shoreview Pl Tampa,
Tuesday, July 30 · 12am 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 “High-tech entertainment district in Tampa with virtual reality arcades.” 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

1995: Reconstruction of the historic El Centro Español de Tampa.

In 1995, Tampa celebrated a significant milestone in its efforts to preserve its rich cultural heritage with the reconstruction of the historic El Centro Español de Tampa. This iconic building, originally established in the early 20th century, was a vital hub for Tampa's Spanish and Cuban immigrant communities. After years of neglect and disrepair, the restoration project breathed new life into this historic structure, reaffirming Tampa's commitment to preserving its multicultural legacy.

The reconstruction of El Centro Español de Tampa represented a labor of love and dedication from the community and preservationists who recognized the building's historical and cultural significance. The revitalized El Centro Español became a cultural center and a symbol of Tampa's diverse heritage. It played a vital role in promoting and celebrating the city's Spanish and Cuban roots, hosting cultural events, exhibitions, and educational programs that paid homage to the immigrants who helped shape Tampa's identity.

Today, El Centro Español de Tampa stands as a vibrant testament to Tampa's multicultural past and its dedication to preserving its historical treasures. The restored building continues to serve as a hub for cultural events and heritage preservation, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the city's rich history and the contributions of its immigrant communities.

Famous People From Tampa

Gabby Pahinui (1921–1980): Influential Hawaiian musician, spent time in Tampa.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1921-1937)

Charles Kapono Kahahawai Jr., known as Gabby Pahinui, was born in 1921 in Honolulu, Hawaii.He grew up in a musically rich environment, absorbing traditional Hawaiian music from an early age.Pahinui's early life was filled with music, and he quickly developed his skills on the guitar and steel guitar.

Emerging Talent and Early Performances (1938-1947)

In his teens and early twenties, Pahinui started performing at local venues and luaus, becoming known for his talent with the slack-key guitar. His unique style blended traditional Hawaiian techniques with influences from jazz and blues.This period was crucial in developing his signature sound and gaining recognition in the Hawaiian music scene.

Building a Career in Music (1948-1957)

Pahinui's reputation grew as he played with various bands and began recording music.He became a pivotal figure in Hawaiian music, celebrated for his exceptional guitar skills and soulful voice.This era saw the rise of Pahinui as a key contributor to the evolving sound of Hawaiian music.

Golden Age of Hawaiian Music (1958-1967)

The 1950s and 60s marked a golden age for Hawaiian music, with Pahinui at the forefront.He recorded several albums that became classics, capturing the essence of traditional Hawaiian music. Pahinui's music during this time was influential in preserving and popularizing Hawaiian cultural heritage.

Innovation and Collaboration (1968-1977)

Pahinui continued to innovate, collaborating with other musicians and exploring new sounds.He played a significant role in the Hawaiian Renaissance, a cultural revival of Hawaiian arts, language, and music.His work in this period solidified his status as an icon of Hawaiian music.

Final Years and Enduring Legacy (1978-1980)

In his final years, Pahinui's health declined, but his passion for music remained strong.He continued to perform and record music, leaving a lasting impact on Hawaiian culture and music.Pahinui passed away in 1980, but his legacy continued to influence musicians and fans worldwide.

Connection to Tampa

While not widely publicized, Pahinui spent some time in Tampa, Florida, during his career. His time in Tampa was a departure from his life in Hawaii but contributed to his broad experience and musical versatility. The influence of his Hawaiian roots remained central to his music, regardless of his location.

Personal Life and Characteristics

Gabby Pahinui was known for his charismatic personality, deep connection to Hawaiian culture, and his natural musicality. His personal life was intertwined with his music, reflecting his love for Hawaii and its traditions. Pahinui was revered as a mentor and inspiration by many younger musicians in Hawaii.

Key Achievements

•  Pioneered the development and popularization of slack-key guitar music.

• Key figure in the Hawaiian Renaissance, contributing significantly to the revival of Hawaiian culture and music.

• Recorded classic Hawaiian music albums, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

Gabby Pahinui's life was a celebration of Hawaiian music and culture. As a master of slack-key guitar, he played a pivotal role in the Hawaiian Renaissance, preserving traditional music while infusing it with new influences. His legacy transcends his recordings, influencing generations of musicians and solidifying his status as a cornerstone of Hawaiian music history.

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