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Welcome to The Tampa Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Tampa Bay Lightning home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Leroy Collins

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The power of imagination makes us infinite.”

—John Muir

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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!

What annual Tampa music festival is held in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park?

A) Tampa Bay Blues Festival

B) Gasparilla Music Festival

C) Sunset Music Festival

D) Tampa Folk Fest

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Tampa Bay sports team that plays baseball at Tropicana Field is B) Tampa Bay Rays

News

💼Business

Tampa Bay area small businesses recovering from Helene struggle to get financial assistance.(link)

Lynx Software Technologies Announces Acquisition of Core Avionics & Industrial.(link)

🏒Sports

Tampa Bay Rays Reach Agreement to Air Games on FanDuel Sports Network Sun.(link)

Tampa native Deliah Autry wins third flag football gold medal at international games.(link)

🏦Finance

Toronto metals giant acquires Tampa Bay Steel Corp.(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

🏈 South Florida Bulls Football vs. Tulsa Golden Hurricane Football
Raymond James Stadium Tampa,
Saturday November 23 | 3:30 PM | (more info)

🏒Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Dallas Stars
Amalie Arena Tampa,
Saturday November 23 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Snooper, Real People, Cabo Boing in Tampa
Crowbar 1812 17th Street North Tampa,
Thursday November 21 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Ben Folds
David A. Straz Center - Ferguson Hall Tampa,
Saturday November 23 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family Friendly

🎨 South Tampa Arts & Fashion Market
4004 West Neptune Street Tampa,
Saturday, November 23 | 6 - 10pm EST | (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 “Post-apocalyptic Tampa reclaimed by nature.” 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

1944: MacDill Air Force Base becomes a key site for military operations.

In 1944, MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, assumed a pivotal role in military operations during World War II and beyond. Originally established in the 1930s as a U.S. Army Air Corps base, MacDill gained strategic importance during the war due to its location on the Gulf Coast and proximity to the Caribbean and Latin America. The base played a crucial role in training aircrews, conducting reconnaissance missions, and supporting anti-submarine warfare efforts.

MacDill Air Force Base also served as a base of operations for various units and missions, including the Ninth Air Force and the U.S. Strategic Air Forces. Its strategic location made it an ideal hub for transatlantic flights and long-range bomber operations. Throughout World War II and the subsequent years of the Cold War, MacDill continued to evolve and expand, becoming a critical asset for national defense.

Today, MacDill Air Force Base remains a key site for military operations and is home to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM). Its continued significance underscores Tampa's role as a hub for national defense and military strategy, with MacDill playing a vital role in ensuring the security and readiness of the United States armed forces.

Famous People From Tampa

Leroy Collins (1909–1991): Former Governor of Florida, attended school in Tampa.

Leroy Collins (1909–1991): Former Governor of Florida

Early Life and Education in Tampa (1909-1927)

Born in 1909 in Tallahassee, Florida, Leroy Collins moved to Tampa for his schooling. He attended Plant High School in Tampa, where he began to develop a keen interest in public speaking and leadership.Collins' early years in Tampa were formative in shaping his aspirations and values.

Pursuing Higher Education and Early Career (1928-1934)

After graduating from high school, Collins pursued higher education at the Cumberland School of Law. His time at law school further developed his skills in rhetoric and critical thinking.Collins began his career as a lawyer, setting the foundation for his entry into politics.

Entry into Politics (1935-1940)

Collins entered the political arena by being elected to the Florida House of Representatives.His early political career was marked by a focus on improving education and rural development. These years were crucial in establishing his reputation as a dedicated public servant.

World War II Service (1941-1945)

During World War II, Collins served in the U.S. Navy Reserve. His military service was a testament to his commitment to his country.This experience provided him with a broader perspective on leadership and governance.

Rising Political Influence (1946-1954)

After the war, Collins returned to politics, serving in the Florida Senate. He gained recognition for his eloquent speaking and moderate views on racial issues. Collins' influence in state politics grew, setting the stage for higher office.

Governorship of Florida (1955-1961)

Collins was elected Governor of Florida, serving from 1955 to 1961. His tenure as governor was marked by efforts to improve education, civil rights, and state infrastructure.Collins' leadership during the civil rights era highlighted his progressive stance and commitment to racial integration.

Post-Governorship Career (1962-1970)

After his term as governor, Collins continued to be involved in national politics and civil rights advocacy. He served as the president of the National Association of Broadcasters and later as a special assistant to President Lyndon B. Johnson for community relations.His post-governorship years were characterized by continued public service and a focus on improving race relations.

Later Life and Reflections (1971-1991)

In his later years, Collins reflected on his political career and continued to advocate for civil rights and social justice. He remained a respected figure in Florida and national politics. Collins passed away in 1991, leaving behind a legacy of progressive leadership and civic engagement.

Connection to Tampa

Collins' connection to Tampa was rooted in his educational years at Plant High School. His experiences in Tampa played a significant role in his early development and interest in public service.This connection influenced his political perspectives and leadership style throughout his career.

Personal Life and Characteristics

Leroy Collins was known for his eloquence, integrity, and progressive views, especially on civil rights. His personal life was marked by a commitment to family, public service, and community values.Collins' approach to governance and social issues was ahead of his time, reflecting his visionary leadership.

Key Achievements

• Served as Governor of Florida, known for his progressive stance on civil rights and education.

• Played a significant role in navigating Florida through the civil rights era.

• Influential in state and national politics, advocating for racial integration and social justice.

• Recognized for his eloquent public speaking and principled leadership.

Leroy Collins' life and career were marked by his progressive leadership and dedicated public service, particularly as Governor of Florida. His commitment to civil rights and education reform, combined with his eloquent public speaking, made him a prominent and respected figure in Florida's political history. Collins' legacy, influenced by his early years in Tampa, continues to inspire leaders and advocates for social justice and racial equality.

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.

-Yannick Lyons

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