SPC president Dr. Tonjua Williams with Board of Trustee, Jason Butts St. Petersburg College is commemorating its 99th year, celebrating community and heritage with a community-focused block party. On Saturday, Sept. 12, SPC will host its annual SPC Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its Midtown Center in South St. Petersburg's historic Deuces Corridor. The free block party will commemorate the 99th anniversary of the college. Presented by Suncoast Credit Union, the celebration will bring together students, alumni, families, businesses and community organizations for a day of live entertainment, local vendors, food and family-friendly activities. Founded in 1927, SPC was Florida’s first two-year institution. The block party is a celebration of that legacy and the college’s continuous commitment to creating economic and creating affordable higher education opportunities for the community. Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development “SPC has been able to provide the opportunity of being innovative, enriching lives, transforming communities,” says Belinthia Berry, SPC’s Dean of Workforce Development. “So many corporate partners want to be a part of that.” The college is also celebrating another milestone: The growth of its Midtown campus, which first opened its doors in 2015. Construction is now underway on the college's Industry 4.0 Smart Lab, supported by $8.2 million in state funding. It is expected to open in late 2026. The facility will be the first of its kind in this region and will offer modern labs and advanced equipment designed to give students hands-on experience with technology used in today's manufacturing industry. SPC officials said major companies invested in this project. “Everyone from Jabil, Honeywell, Plasma, Lockheed Martin,” says Berry. “So many businesses, even the city of St. Petersburg is supporting this initiative in order for students and the community to get good paying jobs in the manufacturing industries.” Dr. Tonjua Williams, president of St. Petersburg College SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams echoed the following in a press release provided to Power Broker. “The Industry 4.0 lab reflects SPC’s long-standing commitment to the Midtown community and preparing students for the careers of tomorrow,” said Williams. “By creating modern learning environments and providing more hands-on experiences, we’re giving students the skills they need to succeed while helping meet the needs of employers across our region.” Williams currently serves as SPC’s 7th president and the first woman and first African American to hold the position. “She (Williams) leads the charge , leads the way, she has a true vision for SPC and it just continues to unfold under her leadership,” says Berry. Deuces Corridor, where the block party will take place, holds a significant place in history. Once a thriving center of Black-owned businesses, entertainment and community life, the historic 22nd Street South corridor continues to serve as an important cultural anchor. SPC students posing for a picture on campus. SPC graduates on graduation day. Today, SPC officials say the Deuces Corridor is turning more into a workforce development initiative, where individuals can get jobs right here in the community. New programs SPC has implemented include the construction art program, the electrical board accessibility program, semiconductor clean room program and soon, a nursing program. “Great things are happening there and for us to be on the Deuces Live, it’s real time, it’s needed,” says Berry. “All of the businesses there have been requesting and asking us, even the community — where are the programs? So now they are here.” The St. Petersburg Housing Authority and The Deuces Live, Inc are among the other partners of SPC Day. The organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic Deuces Corridor. Latorra Bowles, executive director of The Deuces Live, says the community’s growth is essential to education, workforce development and community partnerships working together, which is why collaborating with SPC is so ideal. “SPC’s continued investment in Midtown represents more than education; it represents access, opportunity and a commitment to meeting residents where they are,” Bowles said in a press release. Looking ahead to its centennial next year and beyond, Berry hopes there will be continuous workforce evolution, specifically flexibility with the labor markets and SPC being able to provide the education and educational programs that are of value to ensure that the community and its students have good paying jobs. “Midtown is a focal point, just like all of the other campuses, but we are building quickly, we are building fast, we’re getting state support, we’re getting regional support, local government support, everybody is wrapping their hands around us as we continue to move forward with 100 years of being innovative…that’s what St. Pete college is about- being innovative.” To learn more about SPC Day, go to spcollege.edu/spc-day

Caption: Tahisia Scantling, MSA, Broker, SFR & Instructor, Managing Broker of Right Turn Realty, LLC When Tahisia Scantling left her six-figure corporate career to become an entrepreneur, she had experience and a vision. What she did not have was a plan for making it happen. “When I left corporate America, I knew what I was going to be doing, but I just didn’t have a clear direction or purpose,” Scantling said. Early hard lessons During her first year in business, Scantling earned a profit of just $13,000. She had saved approximately one year’s salary before leaving corporate America, where she worked for over 20 years in commercial and residential real estate, sales, business consulting, retail and business banking. Despite her skills, and because she had not developed a marketing plan or created a budget — and failed to consistently track her expenses — she did not immediately recognize how little her business was producing. “I saw money coming in, but I didn’t see it going out,” she said. “At the end of the year, I saw my profit, and that was a reality check. Coming from someone who made six figures, that was a big change.” Once she reviewed the numbers, she realized her approach was not sustainable. She started working part-time jobs to supplement her income. Scantling also sought help through organizations such as the Pinellas Opportunity Council and was able to receive free support from a mentee. Those were her early years. Now, Scantling is the managing broker for Right Turn Realty, LLC, a full service real estate firm in St. Petersburg. Pending book release Scantling, who is also a former St. Pete redistricting commissioner, is now planning to use her growing pains to help aspiring entrepreneurs avoid some of the pitfalls she made. Scantling is penning her first book, titled “Stop Hustling, Start Building.”The book will offer a 12-step framework for developing a business with purpose, structure and long-term direction. Over the past seven years, Scantling has helped train over 500 small businesses. She has worked with organizations such as the Tampa Bay Black Business Investment Corporation, Inc. (BBIC) and the Pinellas County Urban League. The book is inspired by the 15-week intensive training program she designed with BBIC. “I’ve had a lot of experience working with small business owners — the ones that hustle — and I am just really trying to change the mindset of them, trying to figure out how to take their hustle and turning it into a business,” she says. The book introduces what Scantling calls the Power Plan Method. Part of that method is the ‘decision board’, which are tactics you can apply to make better choices. Those decisions are then formulated into a 30-60-90-day action plan with specific tasks.” “It tells you specifically what you have to do to be able to accomplish the things that you want to accomplish,” she says. She encourages business owners to research community organizations, mentoring programs, business development agencies and other resources that can help them fill operational gaps. Power Broker asked Scantling 8 tactical tips on how to intentionally build as a new entrepreneur: Not saying ‘yes’ to every opportunity. Scantling says, “Knowing who your target audience is, understanding your client base and being very clear and cautious who you take money from.” Knowing your worth and not letting people see that you’re sweating. Do not confuse revenue with profit. Operate with a real plan. Scantling says, “Unless you've been in business for more than 3 years, you can only really use it [ business plan] for funding…get you something that's tangible that you can look at, like a marketing plan. Protect your time. Scantling says, “Your time is your biggest commodity, and when you are self-employed, you can’t get up at 12 p.m. and think you can get off at 5 and not work on the weekends when you’re just starting to build your business. You have to be able to allocate and protect your time and use it to be as productive as you can.” Do not get caught up in chasing shiny things. Scantling says, “Make sure that the business that you want, that you’re chasing, fulfills what YOU want in your life.” Build a system, don’t try to do it all. Scantling says, “When I first went out on my own, I didn't think I could afford to hire anybody. But what I failed to realize was I was doing everything and because I was doing everything, I wasn't as productive as I probably could have been.” Have confidence in what you are doing. Scantling says, “A lot of the times, we do research, we look for information from other people, but I think what really has to happen is you have to have that confidence and belief in yourself and your ability.” “Stop Hustling, Start Building” will be released on Dec. 25. For more information and updates, follow Scantling on her Facebook page.

Join the team behind Bronner Bros. and Vivacé by KISS for the 2026 Beauty Icon Awards! Internship opportunities are now available across key focus areas, including event production, styling, stage production, marketing, and design. Gain valuable hands-on experience, build high-level industry connections, and sharpen your resume while contributing to an iconic, unforgettable event. If you are ready to make a bold impact behind the scenes and elevate your career in the beauty industry, this is your moment. Click here to apply today!

The Southwest Florida Water Management District is officially accepting applications for its Splash! School Grants. K-12 public and charter school educators can secure up to $3,000 per school to fund hands-on, freshwater education projects, field trips, and classroom supplies. Designed to empower students with vital knowledge about local water conservation and ecosystems, this grant provides the essential resources needed to bring experiential science learning directly to life. The deadline to submit your application is September 4, 2026. Click here to apply now!

General contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers are invited to join Vice Mayor Kim Downing for a CRA Vendor Meeting on Wednesday, September 9, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Haines City Hall. Discover how to register as an official Community Redevelopment Agency vendor, explore available rehabilitation grant programs, and network with local business leaders to secure new city contract opportunities. For more information call 863-421-3600 x3504.

CareerSource Tampa Bay and South University are teaming up for the Talent Meets Opportunity Hiring Event on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at South University’s Tampa Campus. Held in celebration of Workforce Development Month and South University’s Alumni Month, this premier career fair connects job seekers directly with top local employers, career pathways, and vital workforce resources. Bring multiple copies of your resume and prepare to network. Register for the hiring event today!

The City of Gulfport is officially calling on local artists to feature their work in the City Hall Council Chambers for its Q4 exhibition. Participation is entirely free, offering a high-visibility platform to showcase your talent to the community. The upcoming theme for this quarter is "FISH". To apply, email a photo of your submission, title, medium, size, and contact details to Julie Armstrong at juliearmstrong22@gmail.com by October 9, 2026. Submit your artwork today to be considered!

The pre-application survey for Round 17 of the Harm Reduction Futures Fund is official open! This vital opportunity provides core funding to organizations operating syringe service programs and delivering health services to high-need, low-resource communities. If your organization supports health equity and serves people who use drugs, submit your pre-application before September 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Don't miss the info webinar on September 10 at 2:00 PM ET to get key application guidance. Visit aidsunited.org/harm-reduction to register for the webinar and start your application today!

Polk Propel 8 offers Polk County entrepreneurs fully funded access to the proven 8 Pillars System for High Performing Businesses™. Designed to transform operational structures and accelerate growth, this program delivers real, measurable results—like past participant Ebony, who scaled her annual revenue from $75,000 to nearly $200,000 in under a year. Don't just learn about business; build the infrastructure to scale it. Virtual interviews take place September 3rd at 6:30 PM. Click here to secure your spot.

Kymbriell Finch, founder and creative director of Courageous Leap Inc. helps one of her students float in the pool. ( Photo courtesy of Kymbriell Finch) A recent study shows that drowning deaths among Black children in Florida were among the highest in the nation. According to a new 50-state analysis by Schiller Kessler Group, Florida recorded 105 drowning deaths, the highest number of any state. The report found that across all ages, Black Americans drowned at 1.5 times the rate of white Americans. Among children, the gap widens with age. Black children ages 5 to 9 drowned at 2.6 times the rate of white children, while Black children ages 10 to 14 drowned at 3.6 times the rate of white children. In swimming pools, Black children ages 10 to 14 drown at 7.6 times the rate of white children in the same age group. The data is based on information collected from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. On July 1, Florida expanded its Swimming Lesson Voucher Program, which provides free lessons to qualifying families earning no more than 200% of the federal poverty level. Children ages 1 through 7 are now eligible. Previously, the program served children aged 4 and younger. However, eligibility still ends several years before children reach the 10-to-14 age group, where drowning incidents are higher. In Tampa Bay, between 2013-2025, the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office reported 128 drowning deaths of children ages 6 and up, and a total of 12 drownings last year. The report raises questions about the factors and access Black families may face that contribute to the high drowning deaths. Financial factor One primary factor is financial. In Florida, the average range for lessons is $76 to $106 and families could pay up to $88 per lesson or an average of $490 for a series of lessons, according to a report by InstaSwim USA. Jennifer McFall is the current senior director of health and wellness initiatives at The Skills Center in East Tampa. She has all four of her children enrolled in swimming classes. “Any chance we can get them in swim lessons or get them in a pool, we do,” McFall said. On average, McFall said, it could cost her family $600 a week for lessons so she tries to find more affordable options. Caption: Girl gasping for air in swimming pool. (Pexels) Cultural factors Another factor is culture. Historically, Black Americans were excluded from segregated public pools and beaches, contributing to lower swimming participation and fewer opportunities for parents to pass swimming skills to their children. “White families probably do more in the water than Black families depending on the geography and then resources,” McFall said. “You don’t really have the programming necessary for kids in those neighborhoods to be able to learn how to swim, to learn water safety.” McFall, who is a former certified lifeguard coach, grew up in an area where there was one city pool and swimming was a recreational sport for all the kids in the neighborhood. The lessons were free for the kids over the summer. “We were at the pool every day, we had great instructors,” McFall recalls. “They made it fun, so that was part of our culture.” Caption: Girl in swimming pool. (Getty Images) Fear of water There’s another factor that has heavy historical context for Black people when it comes to swimming: Fear. “I don’t know if it's bad experiences or just a lack of knowledge or lack of exposure,” McFall said. “But I think the more exposure you[parents] can open their [kids] minds to say and say ‘OK, water safety is important, so if this is available for my kid, I can at least get them to where they’re comfortable and they know what to do like how to help a friend if a friend falls in the water, they know how to throw something out there and not jump in themselves.” Growing up, Brittany Scriven says her family did not have access to a pool, and her mother had a fear of water she passed on to Scriven and her brothers. Although she is unable to swim herself, she’s had her 5-year-old son in swimming lessons since he was 11 months old. “The neighborhood I used to live in had about seven or eight lakes in it,” says Scriven. “So, I didn't want him to get out and wander into a lake and something tragic happens. Inspired by her son’s progress, Scriven says she is thinking about taking adult lessons. “At this point, I think it’s a basic life skill…we’re in Florida, we’re around water, a lot of activities are focused on water. More and more people have swimming pools in their backyards.” Kymbriell Finch is a water safety advocate and the founder and creative director of the non-profit Courageous Leap Inc. studies epigenetics, which is the study of how behaviors and environments can impact how genes work without alternating a person’s DNA sequence. She was curious as to how the origins of Black people’s fear of water could be incorporated and started studying. During slavery, slave masters used drowning as a fear tactic and control. One infamous incident was the Zong massacre of 1781 in which the crew of a British slave ship threw 132 slaves overboard into the Atlantic. The massacre is documented in a book titled The Zong: A Massacre, the Law and the End of Slavery by James Walvin. “That fear of drowning, it’s been embedded in us from such an early stage because it was literally used as punishment when we weren’t listening to our captors,” Finch said. Although 98% of Finch’s students are African American, most of them are not exposed until they are over the age of 5. Meanwhile, white students started taking lessons as early as 6 months old. “Their parents get them into the water as soon as possible; but because of that fear, we don’t put our children in there until they’re going off to school, they’re going off to different summer camps. How we were raised, where we were raised all of that plays a part in our relationship with water,” Finch said. Finch, who believes water is a universal language that everyone should have access to, regardless of age, income or background, makes it part of her mission to target Black and brown communities. Her organization is dedicated to helping kids overcome the fear of water through swim lessons and life skills. “I know the challenges that Black people face when it comes to building a trusting relationship with water, so I have taken on the responsibility of prioritizing those people,” Finch said. “A lot of work needs to be done in the Black community to get us caught up and where we are comfortable and confident in our skills to even take interest in these things.” Scholarships and resources Despite the disparities, there are several organizations dedicated to water safety for kids. The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County offers free swim lessons through vouchers with the YMCA and grants with Water Smart Tots. The scholarships and grants are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Since 2014, the board has been the sole funder of the Child Safety Campaign in which they partner with organizations to provide resources and awareness on child drownings as well as infant safe sleep and shaking baby syndrome. Parents are given supplies such as water watcher whistles. “We encourage parents not to be distracted while their children are in water,” says Dexter Lewis, the Director of Public Relations for the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. “Drowning happens silently; it can happen in as little as one second.” However, to better promote water safety as a necessary survival skill and ease financial burdens, McFall says that should start with local lawmakers. One idea she mentioned that she would like to see in the future is a collaborative initiative between public inner-city schools and the city’s parks and recreation. “We have plenty of pools in the cities, and if we can connect the schools to parks and recreation and offer something like that, that would be amazing, and I think more people would take advantage of it,” McFall said. McFall said a week of water safety would be beneficial for kids. “... Then swim lessons can spin off of that. But water safety in general doesn’t take a lot … if they fall in to grab the wall and walk on the wall, or if they fall in and it's shallow and it’s kind of over their heads, they can hop to safety,” McFall said. Finch emphasized the importance of incorporating more water-based activities in Black communities as a way to not only decrease the number of tragedies, but to also build confidence in the water. “When we swim, when we connect with water, it's more than just a physical exercise,” Finch said. “It’s literally a spiritual experience, and it's healing when we get into the water…it heals us mentally, emotionally and spiritually as well. I think when more Black people begin to incorporate safe and confident practices of being around the water, they’ll start to see that representation in themselves and how they interact with each other.”

From Tampa Bay Forward, the Power Broker's 20th anniversary edition Tampa Bay rivals most regions for its quotient of homegrown talent. Yet we may have an unusual cadre of Black Americans with roots and ties to the region, who have reached the top of their fields and left an indelible imprint on the 21st century. From igniting global and national trends, and earning ultimate honors in sports, to defining new genres in the arts, and leading the competition in the corporate sector, here are 12 luminaries and celebrities with connections to the region. THE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Angela Bassett | Actress Raised in St. Petersburg Bassett is a two-time Oscar nominee, Emmy winner, and multiple Golden Globe winner widely regarded as one of the finest actresses of her generation. Her defining 21st-century moment came in 2022, when her role as Queen Ramonda in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” — a film that grossed $859 million worldwide — made her the first actor ever nominated for an Academy Award for a Marvel movie, on top of a Golden Globe win. She's since become one of the highest-paid women of color in broadcast television, reportedly earning north of $450,000 per episode on the Fox/ABC drama “9-1-1.” Kenny Leon | Broadway Director Raised in St. Petersburg Leon is an award-winning director whose work has shaped modern Broadway and helped bring Black theater to the mainstream. His signature honor, the Tony Award for “A Raisin in the Sun,” came in 2014. Additional nominations for “Fences,” “A Soldier's Play,” and “Purlie Victorious” round out his 21st-century honors. Just this July, Leon was elected chair of the American Theatre Wing's board of trustees — the organization behind the Tony Awards itself — putting a St. Pete native at the helm of one of the industry's most influential institutions Doechii | Musician Raised in Tampa Doechii is an award-winning 27-year old musician, born and raised in Tampa. Her 2025 Grammy for Best Rap Album made her only the third solo woman ever to win the category. She was named Billboard's 2025 Woman of the Year, and landed on Forbes' 30 Under 30 Class of 2026. Still early in her career, Doechii is already one of the most popular figures to come from the region in a generation. She is a graduate of Howard W. Blake High School of Performing Arts, class of 2016. CORPORATE SECTOR Bridgette Heller | Executive & Philanthropist Raised in St. Petersburg Heller is one of only a handful of Black Americans from the region to reach the top of the Fortune 100 — with executive posts at Merck, Johnson & Johnson, and most recently, as executive vice president and president of Nutricia, a division of Danone. Now retired, Heller sits on the boards of Novartis, DexCom, Aramark, and Newman's Own, which channels 100% of profits to charity — $560 million to date. Brian Lamb | Executive Attended College and Built Career in Tampa Lamb was a full-scholarship basketball player at the University of South Florida and earned his bachelor's and MBA there. He later chaired the board of USF. After 14 years at Fifth Third Bank, including as executive vice president and CFO of the Tampa Bay market, he left the region in 2020 to join JPMorgan Chase as its first global head of diversity, equity & inclusion, overseeing a $30 billion racial equity pledge. Lamb now leads its Northeast middle-market banking division. He was inducted into the Tampa Bay Business Hall of Fame in 2016. Coretha Rushing | Executive Consultant Re-located to St. Petersburg in 2019 Rushing is a veteran Fortune 500 human resources executive who spent her career as a senior executive at some of America's most recognizable companies. She was senior vice president and chief human resources officer at Equifax for 14 years, following a decade as senior vice president of Global HR at Coca-Cola, with earlier roles at Pizza Hut and IBM. Since relocating to St. Petersburg, she has launched her own executive coaching and leadership development consultancy, mentoring the region's next generation of leaders. THE SCIENCES Dr. Sylvester James Gates, Jr. | Theoretical Physicist Born in Tampa A pioneer of supersymmetry, supergravity and superstring theory, Gates co-authored “Superspace,” the field's first comprehensive textbook. In 2013 he received the National Medal of Science from U.S. president Barack Obama and was elected to the National Academy of Sciences — becoming the first African American theoretical physicist recognized in the Academy's 150-year history. He later served as president of the American Physical Society, taught as a distinguished university professor at the University of Maryland. He now directs the Brown Theoretical Physics Center. PROFESSIONAL SPORTS Winky Wright | Boxer Adopted St. Petersburg as Home Wright, who trained at the St. Pete Boxing Club from age 15, became the last man to hold the undisputed light middleweight championship. He also holds a World Boxing Council middleweight belt, and in 2005 was ranked by The Ring as the second-best pound-for-pound fighter alive. His 2018 International Boxing Hall of Fame induction cemented his sport-defining legacy. Wright retired from the profession in 2012 and still resides in St. Petersburg. Ray Lewis | NFL Hall of Famer Bartow-Born; Raised in Lakeland Lewis won Super Bowl XXXV MVP honors in January 2001, a second championship in 2013, and Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement in 2018. Then, he built a second career as an ESPN and Fox Sports analyst while launching the Power 52 Foundation as co-founder in 2015, in response to unrest following Freddie Gray's death. The Foundation’s mission is “to break the cycle of poverty, unemployment, underemployment, and incarceration in underserved urban communities,” according to the organization’s website. Lewis attended Lakeland’s Kathleen Senior High School, where he was an All-American linebacker. He was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame in 2018. Fred McGriff | MLB Hall of Famer Raised in Tampa McGriff earned over $65 million in career MLB salary and capped his playing days with a 1995 World Series championship. In 2023, the Contemporary Era Committee voted him unanimously into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the sport's ultimate honor. He was inducted into the Tampa Bay Rays Hall of Fame in September 2024 — the fifth person in franchise history to receive that honor. MEDIA Eric Deggans | Media Critic and Author Long-Time St. Petersburg Resident After 18 years at the Tampa Bay Times, Deggans became NPR's first-ever full-time TV critic, a post he held for 12 years. Today he is NPR’s critic-at-large and the Knight Chair in Journalism and Media Ethics at Washington and Lee University. In 2019, he became the first Black chair of the Peabody Awards board of jurors. He has continued giving back locally as an instructor at Eckerd College, the University of Tampa, and the Poynter Institute. Keith Boykin | Author, Media Figure Attended High School in Clearwater Boykin is a CNN political commentator and New York Times bestselling author who served in the Clinton White House. A Harvard Law graduate who studied alongside then student Barack Obama, Boykin helped organize the first-ever meeting between a sitting president (Clinton) and LGBTQ leaders. He has since built a media career spanning six books — including the New York Times bestseller “Beyond the Down Low” and the American Library Association Stonewall Award winner “For Colored Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Still Not Enough.” Tampa Bay Forward was sponsored by Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, Pinellas Community Foundation and 40 corporate, institutional and business supporters. Share Your News To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com, and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube.

Tampa Bay nonprofits, your next funding opportunity is here. The DeBartolo Family Foundation is welcoming initial inquiries for its Community Grants program. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations serving underserved populations, this initiative funds specific, program-related needs across the Tampa Bay area. Rather than navigating an extensive initial application, qualified groups start the process with a direct, concise email inquiry outlining their request, project goals, and total budget. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. Click here to submit your inquiry

Photo Credit: Celeste Roberts; Youths at the Skills Center A youth center in Hillsborough County is changing the way after-school programs function with its state-of-the-art sports facility. Co-founder and CEO of The Skills Center, Celeste Roberts, is helping pave the way for students to successfully navigate the workforce through youth development programs. “We are a sports-based youth organization that uses the power of sports to create change around education, health, and the workforce,” stated Roberts. The Skills Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating academic and leadership skills through the power of sports. Founded in 2006 by Roberts, Chris Ward, and John Arroyo, the nonprofit operated without a dedicated center until June 2024, when they opened the now fully functional state of the art facility. In her position, Roberts provides strategic leadership and vision for the organization. The youth center project was originally slated for $13 million, but with inflation and rising costs, it totaled to $25.5 million by the end of production. The Skills Center hosts a combination of educational and sports-related venues, including a basketball court, a culinary kitchen, a college career center, and multiple classrooms. Photo Credit: The Skills Center’s Facebook; youths in a culinary class. The physical center was strategically planned to combine areas for physical activity while providing spaces for educational opportunities, such as college prep. The collaborative space provides a way to connect youth development to the workforce. Its services differ from traditional aftercare in that their programs are offered throughout the day rather than scheduled for the afternoon. The Skills Center is open to students during the day, after school, in the evening, and additionally allows students to schedule workshops that fit their calendars (e.g., ACT/SAT Prep classes). Roberts’ vision was to create a place where multiple organizations could collaborate, expand programming to leverage knowledge and resources, and have a greater impact on youth. “It’s really about helping our kids get on a pathway. Whether they’re going to college, pursuing vocational training, entering full-time employment, or joining the military, kids come in for youth development. Our intention is for them to be able to create a path to lifelong success,” Roberts said. Accessibility to the youth’s sports center was a top priority. The location was purposely built in the middle of Hillsborough’s Area Regional Transit (HART) bus routes. The HART bus line runs from South County to North Tampa, providing students near and far with operational transportation. Through their partnership with Hillsborough County Schools, the location has secured a bus stop in front of the building. In addition to the transit system, the facility secured three passenger vehicles (one 25-passenger and two 15-passenger vehicles). “A part of our work is how we think strategically to eliminate barriers that prevent kids from accessing things, and transportation is just one of those things. Not only for our kids, but for our city,” Roberts said. Photo Credit: The Skills Center’s Facebook; youths stretching. The Skills Center’s department served a total of 3,400 youth through programs and events in 2024. Since its opening, they’ve tripled in staff and more than doubled in contractors and vendors since 2024. The non-profit has also secured two grants ($1.4 million and $1.5 million) through The Collab, a five-core partnership of organizations that contribute to the overall mission of the youth center. The Collab includes Men of Vision, Girls Mentally Empowered for Success (GEMS), G3 Life Applications, and the CDC of Tampa (Corporation to Develop Communities). “We wanted to be creative and strategic and figure out a way to bring in the money that we need to make sure that our kids get the services they need,” said Roberts. Roberts is eager to celebrate their 20th anniversary next year. Beginning January 2027, the Skills Center will host small celebratory events leading up to their annual SNKR Ball in March to celebrate their anniversary. Photo Credit: The Skills Center’s Facebook; youths visit the Lee Chira Family Heisman Plaza. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Lakendria Robinson, founder of Orenda Collective LaKendria Robinson shares with Power Broker News that the political landscape regarding DEI in Florida has made it more challenging to navigate as a business owner whose company thrives on diversity. Robinson is the founder of The Orenda Collective, a Black-owned project and management consulting firm based in Tampa, focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), supplier diversity and community investment. The core of her business has been helping her clients to better connect to diverse businesses and individuals that they can do business with. That includes assisting with the language of business objectives, increasing diverse programming, expanding employee and resource groups and branding to diverse audiences. However in recent months, the ability to fulfil that mission has been met with roadblocks from lawmakers. The biggest one was in April, when Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that eliminates DEI programs and “prohibits governments from establishing or maintaining DEI offices, officers, or programs.” Regarding the legislation, Robinson says, “There was one thing to pivot from a language standpoint, there seems to be a more intentional effort more regularly where the government is actually educating themselves on the changes that we are doing on the ground and recreating new legislation to shut down changes we made.” Since then, many companies and organizations are cutting back on diversity and inclusion outreach from a budgeting standpoint. “A lot of them [companies], out of an abundance of caution have eliminated budgeted line items for anything that even remotely resembles DEI, gender-based, racial ethnicity based, even some slightly skewed small business space programs and initiatives and efforts and they’ve taken those dollars and diverted them elsewhere,” Robinson said. The cutbacks have triggered a tremendous loss of revenue and strong partnerships for Orenda, whose core purpose is to expand inclusivity in corporate spaces. “Those bills and that legislation is having a direct negative impact on my business and the business of others who do similar work,” she added. Robinson said changes in the political landscape has caused financial hurdles for some companies. “It has made it very difficult for us to secure public funding or any funding, local or state,” Robinson said. “It’s also made it very difficult for us to go after new clients and also even retain some of our current clients.” To navigate the landscape, Robinson has taken actions to pivot her work but also remain true to her mission. This adjustment has included altering the verbiage she uses to promote Orenda. “Changing and using different, non-DEI language that isn’t likely to be flagged or put into some AI chatbot and then my company becomes a target,” Robinson said. She added that, "The biggest shift was learning to lead with the outcomes of our work instead of terminology," she says. “A few years ago, I probably would have started a conversation by talking about diversity or inclusion. Today, I start by asking a client, ‘What business problem are you trying to solve and who are you trying to solve it for?’” Robinson admits that some avenues have been successful and others not so much because her company is always perceived as a DEI firm. “That was language we were using when I started the company and that is what we built a reputation as,” she said. Today, the Florida State University graduate and TEDx speaker is more intentional than ever about the recruiting and vetting process of her potential clients. “From a safeguarding standpoint, I know when I am working with a client they have a personal mission and the company has its own process and revenue to actually do any sort of DEI or community work.” When asked about what advice she would give to fellow colleagues facing similar challenges, Robinson was transparent and says she is actively seeking the same insight. “All of this is very new,” she says. “All of this has taken on a more aggressive and more public approach. It is a landscape where people’s lives and their livelihoods are in real danger…there are dire circumstances and consequences for people who are continuing to do this work.”

Target’s latest controversy is raising a larger question beyond how an offensive children’s costume reached its website: What happens when companies remove diverse voices from the rooms where critical decisions are made? The retailer is facing backlash after a children’s Halloween costume sold on its website drew comparisons to racist blackface and minstrel imagery. Target listed the $25 costume as the “Kids’ Glows under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume Bodysuit” from its Hyde and EEK! Boutique brand. The costume showed a Black boy wearing a black bodysuit with the face and hands appearing completely dark, contrasted by an exaggerated, wide mouth. Consumers quickly took notice and pointed out its close resemblance to the racist caricatures historically associated with blackface and minstrel performances. Target took the costume down for its website and issued a public apology on Monday. “As a company, we know we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry,” Target said in a statement. “ The costume is offensive and should never have been part of our assortment. It is no longer available for sale. We know this is especially hurtful for our Black guests, team members and partners. Removing the costume is an important first step, and the company is looking closely at how this happened and what needs to change to ensure this won’t happen again. The incident has sparked a larger conversation about cultural awareness and corporate accountability or lack of. LaKendria Robinson, founder of The Orenda Collective, a project and management consulting firm based in Tampa, focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) says it is a direct reflection of the real consequences of removing DEI from workspaces. “The Halloween costume debacle is a direct result of there not being diverse voices at the table, that can flag things that could not only be offensive to the community but could also affect the bottom line of a company,” says Robinson. Since 2023, there has been a wave of anti-DEI legislation proposed and passed by lawmakers. States such as Florida and Texas have passed such legislation that limits, restricts or defunds that function in an inclusive space. Last year, Target ended its 3-year DEI rollout program, which prompted boycotts from primarily Black consumers who used to shop there like Robinson. Robinson was a former Target shopper but has not been in the store in over a year and does not see herself returning in the foreseeable future. She recalls Target as being a company who made bold statements and spearheaded great initiatives to foster inclusion. “Target was one of those places where everybody, regardless of who they were, what they identified as, or who they loved, they saw themselves physically in the merchandise, in the marketing in their company,” says Robinson. “So Target for us, for me personally, felt like a safe place. And then when they rolled all of their DEI initiatives back, after having such a strong commitment it really left a bad taste in my mouth.” Willie Roberson, the Managing Director at FGS Global, a global communications and public affairs consulting firm in Washington D.C. says Target made its current bed when they started to rollback its internal diversity commitments. And that their apology is empty without any action. “Big picture on issues like this is finding pathways to do better,” says Roberson. “Whether a brand embarks on sensitive imagery or regular content, they must do the work on whether their product/campaign is authentic to the people they are trying to speak to. Brands do this all the time. For companies that don’t do that work, the floor is whether or not the people building the product or campaign have their thumb on the pulse to avoid disaster. Neither happened here for Target.” For many, the question isn’t simply whether Target intended the costume to be offensive.It is how a product could move through multiple levels of a major corporation without raising concerns. Rafael Sarim Oezdemir, the Head of Growth and marketing leader of EZContacts, a US retailer of eyewear, says a diverse review team, particularly one with Black members, would’ve definitely noticed the red flags in such a product. “Moreover, the timing of this case, coming just months after Target had rolled back its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, speaks directly to the core of the problem,” says Oezdemir, noting that this is not the first time the retailer has been in the hot seat. According to Oezdemir, last year’s grassroot boycott resulted in a 21% drop in Target’s net income in the second fiscal quarter and an overall 1.7% decline in a full-year of net sales to $104.8 billion. Oezdemir says, “As one commentator rightly pointed out, once you take diversity out of the room, you end up with people who won’t tell you that “this is wrong”. As to whether Target can bounce back from its latest hiccup, the recovery will be bumpy but possible. Aside from the financial repercussions, experts say the latest obstacle will be regaining trust. “They’re going to have a hard time winning back the trust and the confidence of the people that they worked really hard to build it in,” says Robinson. “And I think people are in a place where they’re tired of giving second and third and fourth and fifth chances to companies, people and organizations who will show them time and time again that they will turn on you when things aren’t going their way.” Roberson believes recovery is possible but it will not happen overnight. “It will be a tough road back to building trust with Black and Brown consumers with all of these false steps,” he says. “I hope down the line their leadership eventually looks in the mirror and asks themselves whether it actually needed to be like this and whether it was worth it or not.” This article was originally published on RoyalTee Magazine

Camille Adrienne-Washington is founder of Camille-Adrienne Foundation, founder and CEO of the Indie Noir Market Experience and organizer of BIGFest. The free festival will spotlight over 150 Black-owned businesses in Tampa Black Tampa Bay entrepreneurs, artists, and community organizations will take center stage on Aug. 29-30 during B.I.G. Fest, a free celebration designed to promote Black-owned businesses and strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial community. Hosted by entrepreneur Camille Adrienne-Washington, the festival is one of Tampa Bay’s largest Black commerce gatherings. B.I.G. Fest, short for “Black Is Gold,” kicks off with Black Business Expo at River Tower Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m on Saturday. On Sunday, there will be an invite-only brunch called Cafe Noir and a free art and music festival at 1920 in Ybor City from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Washington is the founder of a non-profit called the Camille-Adrienne Foundation and the founder and CEO of the Indie Noir Market Experience. A Florida A&M graduate. Washington says she uses her platforms as a way to take accountability in a community she has called home for the past five years. “Each one of my businesses serve a different entity, a different sector, and this allows me to already have a give back plan in place, to make sure our community is growing, thriving and being provided opportunities to grow with this beautiful city,” Washington said. The festival will feature over 150 vendors to shop from, along with food, live entertainment, art and free wellness activities. The festival reflects the larger mission of Indie Noir Market, a community-centered marketplace and business-development platform Washington founded in 2017. “This is an opportunity to boost over 250 small Black businesses throughout the year,” says Washington. B.I.G Fest is the physical demonstration of the growth of Black-owned businesses in the Tampa Bay Area. Since 2021, minority-owned businesses have grown over 15%, and as of 2025, make up over 120,000 businesses in Hillsborough County, according to the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. B.I.G Fest supports and sustains that growth by encouraging consumers to take accountability of how the dollars are circulating in predominantly Black communities. “This allows us to really circulate the Black dollar,” Washington said. “And when we say circulation, we really mean circulation. A lot of people will say ‘We’re gonna circulate the Black dollar but you got to draw a circle first.’” She added, “This allows us to give back to our community, give back to our non-profits, allows us to boost small Black business and allows us to really elevate in an economic system that may not be the best right now…so this allows for self-sustainability for a lot of our small entrepreneurs that are here and local to Tampa Bay.” Beyond the festival, Indie Noir Market maintains a directory featuring more than 1,300 Black-owned brands and service providers throughout Tampa Bay. All of the businesses participating in this weekend’s B.I.G Festare are also receiving a free spot in Washington’s Business Accelerator Program sponsored by her foundation. The program providers free access to business training, coaching and resources designed to help them excel and generate revenue through their business. Most importantly, Washington says B.I.G Fest is a celebration. “I want people to get out of it a celebration of Black culture,” Washington said. “A celebration of what we do, how we showcase our art, our retail, our services. We’re just very excited to allow this experience to be for everyone. Everyone should take away a little bit of joy when you leave this marketplace.” For event details and to learn more about Indie Noir, visit the Indie Noir Market website.

Emely Thompson, founder of Emely Rachael Consulting, recently brought her AI governance and personal development expertise to Tampa Bay. (Photo submitted by Emely Thompson) Most attorneys follow a straight line toward partnership. Emely Thompson took the scenic route - one that led her from the trenches of social justice to the complex frontier of AI governance. ​ Thompson, founder of Emely Rachael Consulting, recently brought her hard-earned perspective to Tampa. She is also proving the best path forward isn’t always paved. ​ The first-generation Jamaican American and college student is proud of her non-linear route to entrepreneurship. Thompson’s pivot from the criminal justice system to corporate success, then to launching a consultancy firm in a new city, proves that true impact often requires the flexibility to adapt your tools while keeping your North Star. ​ “I always wanted to be an attorney,” Thompson said. “I saw injustice very early. I saw how adults used different techniques to treat each other. My eyes were opened to that early.” ​ That exposure fueled a deep-seated drive for justice. Thompson spent her formative legal years in family law, the runaway and homeless youth system, and helped give youth a voice in policymaking with the Center for Court Innovation. The work mattered, but it was also emotionally taxing and demanded a level of maturity that pushed Thompson to explore different ways to make an impact. She found it with a Fortune 50 insurance conglomerate. ​ Thompson didn’t just drift into corporate America - she was selected for a competitive program with the company while still completing law school. The pieces began to click into place when she realized her role in a privacy and information security unit was more than just tracking data; it was a front-row seat to the dawn of a new era. ​ “I loved comparing the privacy landscape in America versus other countries,” Thompson said. “I loved thinking about the question: ‘Is privacy a right or a privilege?’ Then, as things progressed, there was AI governance. I started digging into LLMs (large-language models), and realized, ‘Whoa, this is going to change everything.’” ​ Thompson, then living in a small town in Illinois, still felt like she was on the outside looking in at an impending revolution. She and her husband, a software engineer, began researching tech hubs nationwide and eventually set their sights on Tampa Bay. ​ The two fell in love with the area during a spring break visit last year, and Thompson took a sabbatical in December to meet with like-minded professionals throughout Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg. She subsequently moved to Wesley Chapel and launched Emely Rachael Consulting in June. The boutique firm’s initial focus, according to its website, was helping women build careers, businesses, and “lives they are proud of - without sacrificing their authenticity, femininity, or peace.” ​ “I started to think about everything I went through and did until that point, and how I’m not following a blueprint,” Thompson explained. “My legal career, even what I’m doing in technology, is not traditional.” ​ The professional development platform, much like its founder, quickly evolved due to demand for her expertise. Thompson is now helping startups, venture-backed businesses, and innovation-heavy organizations navigate the Wild West of AI regulation and compliance. Emely Thompson (left) launched her consultancy firm in June and remains committed to uplifting ambitious women. (Photo submitted by Emely Thompson) Whether training teams on the potential pitfalls of introducing LLMs into the workplace or reviewing platforms for human resources and marketing departments to screen for bias, Thompson acts as a tailored guide. While clients may not know exactly what they need, they realize they need help, she said. ​ “It doesn’t help that we don’t have any overarching legislation that’s guiding us on privacy and how we handle consumer data,” Thompson added. “Now we have this state patchwork system, which is a compliance burden and requires more money, time, and people. From the consumer level, it’s also frustrating.” ​ Beneath the technical and legal expertise lies a deeply personal ethos. Authenticity isn't a liability for Thompson; it's a strategic asset. ​ She believes that women, particularly those navigating male-dominated tech spaces, shouldn't feel the need to stifle their personality or ambition to be taken seriously. “Your personal confidence, your dedication to the outcome, your follow-through - that’s what speaks for itself,” Thompson said. ​ “I love all that I am. I don’t have to hide that through my hair, my clothes, or my colors.” ​ Thompson’s ascent didn't come with a roadmap or a mentor. She built her career on her own terms by trusting that if she leaned into her faith and intuition, the rest would fall into place. ​ “I didn’t have that representation growing up,” Thompson said. “I had to figure out how to graduate law school debt-free, how to buy a house, how to navigate these systems on my own.” That lack of representation is why she remains committed to the professional development side of her consulting firm. Thompson understands that not everyone can thrive on sheer willpower, and wants to show the next generation of ambitious women that they, too, can authentically take a non-linear path to success. ​ For now, Thompson is exactly where she needs to be - the intersection of law, technology, and human potential. “As people do better, society becomes better, and then we can all live a higher quality of life and enjoy this experience,” she said.

Moms for Liberty leadership presented Gov. Ron DeSantis (second from left), a staunch supporter, with “The Liberty Sword” in July 2022 at their inaugural national summit in Tampa. The organization is now struggling to maintain its short-lived power. (Photo courtesy of Moms for Liberty, Facebook) Sarasota County voters have reversed the conservative stranglehold on their school board by formally rejecting a coalition established by Gov. Ron DeSantis and activist group Moms for Liberty. Conservatives secured a 4-1 supermajority on the five-person board in 2022, largely thanks to the then-surging Moms for Liberty movement. The organization, subsequently cited for extremist beliefs by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), has urged its members to run in typically nonpartisan and low-profile local school board races. DeSantis also played a key role by backing Time Enos, Robyn Marinelli, and former Board Chair Bridget Ziegler - co-founder of Moms for Liberty - in 2022. All three candidates won and joined Karen Rose to give conservatives a commanding influence over the county’s school curriculum. Megan Tennimon and Beth Mayberry won school board seats outright on Tuesday, defeating opponents endorsed by the Sarasota County Republican Party. Progressives, with current members Tom Edwards and Liz Barker, both elected in 2024, now enjoy a 4-1 advantage. In addition, the third school board race is now in a runoff between Heidi Brandt, a Republican-endorsed candidate, and Jimmy Glover, a candidate supported by the local Democratic Party. Teresa DeWitt - a former Moms for Liberty activist - failed to make the cut. Equality Florida Action PAC and the SPLC are among those celebrating the group’s demise. Moms for Liberty has stoked controversy nationwide for its efforts to fight COVID safety measures in schools, ban books, limit discussions regarding race and LGBTQ identities, and populate local boards with conservatives. “Moms for Liberty is in free fall,” said Joe Saunders, executive director of Equality Florida PAC, in a statement. “Make no mistake - the pendulum is swinging in the Sunshine State back toward freedom, equality, and dignity for all.” The announcement notes that Sarasota County is deep red, with a two-to-one Republican voter registration advantage. Ziegler co-founded Moms for Liberty before joining the school board. Conservative parents, fueled by post-pandemic outrage over masking mandates, remote learning, and DeSantis emphasizing culture war issues in classrooms, looked to the 2022 school board races as a way to effectuate change and restore perceived traditional values. Moms for Liberty, with the governor’s support, thrived in that environment. The group proudly claimed over 30 elected school board members in 2022. In late 2023, rape and video voyeurism allegations involving then-Republican Party of Florida Chair Christian Ziegler, Bridget’s husband, brought intense scrutiny to the Sarasota County power couple. The scandal also prompted calls for her to resign, which she refused. The tide began to turn in 2024, when two conservative school board members lost their seats. Bridget Ziegler, Marinelli, and Rose - the remaining conservative incumbents - decided not to seek reelection in June without providing a clear reason. Equality Florida Action PAC, which believes Moms for Liberty has been “demolished,” noted that 20 of the group’s 30 school board members were since defeated, did not seek reelection, or are “limping into runoff elections as pro-equality and pro-diversity candidates are poised to oust them in November.” The announcement states that 81% of all Equality Action PAC-endorsed candidates won their primary elections or advanced to November. “Last night, Florida voters roared,” Saunders said. “Communities are fighting back against book bans, curriculum censorship, and the whitewashing of history,” he continued. “And we are primed to shatter the conservative supermajorities in the legislature in November.” At least one Tampa Bay candidate backed by Moms for Liberty advanced from Tuesday’s primary - Dawn Peters. She, like the others, was elected to the Pinellas County School Board in 2022 with support from the organization and DeSantis. Peters (36.1%) will face Curtis Campogni (35%) in the general election. Dawn Douglas (29%), finished third in the race. Campogni could receive an assist from Equality Florida Action PAC and the SPLC’s Action Fund. The two organizations announced on Aug. 14 that they’re investing $250,000 to support “pro-equality, pro-academic freedom” school board candidates this election season. “Last (Tuesday) night was not the finish line,” Saunders said. “It was a reminder that organizing works, that equality wins, and it was a moment to recommit to the work ahead.”

Former Congressman Charlie Crist (left), who said he was surprised and humbled by his15-point margin of victory, held his watch party at Cassis restaurant on Tuesday night. (Photo courtesy of Charlie Crist’s campaign, Facebook). Mayor Ken Welch (right) greets joyous supporters on Tuesday night at his campaign’s watch party, held at the St. Petersburg Fire Fighters Association headquarters. (Photo by Mark Parker) St. Petersburg voters have narrowed the mayor’s race to a two-candidate showdown, setting the stage for a high-stakes runoff between incumbent Ken Welch and former Florida governor and U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist. ​ The contest will now become a calculated fight for voters who backed the four defeated candidates, a demographic Welch is already working to secure. Crist, with a record fundraising haul that topped $2 million, comfortably won the primary with 35.2% of the vote. ​ Over 44% of the electorate is now up for grabs, however, as Welch finished second with 20.7% of the vote. “I spoke to a couple of candidates today as we were out,” he said, after addressing supporters at the St. Petersburg Association of Fire Fighters headquarters on Tuesday night. ​ “We’re absolutely going to talk to those candidates and their supporters,” Welch added. “All have been working in our community, all have laid out their vision and plans. Charlie Crist has not laid out any plans, no vision.” ​According to preliminary results, Crist, Welch, former St. Petersburg Fire Rescue Chief Jim Large (17.8%), two-term City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard (17.6%), former NAACP president Maria Scruggs (5.2%), and businessman Kevin Batdorf (3.4%) received a combined 55,239 votes - 31.6% of the eligible electorate. ​ While 55,400 ballots were cast in the 2021 primary, when Welch (39.4%) and former Councilmember Robert Blackmon (28.3%) advanced to the general election, that accounted for 29.3% of eligible voters. Crist credited a “campaign of unity” for his 15-point lead in the year’s race at his watch party, held at Cassis restaurant along affluent Beach Drive. “We have Republicans, Democrats, and Independents here, and without all of you, this wouldn’t have happened,” Crist said. “We’re bringing St. Pete back together.” ​ Crist, also a former governor and state representative, told supporters that “we’ve got to make St. Pete affordable.” Welch said the city cannot control soaring living costs. ​ He also touted his administration’s response to five years of crises, including multiple hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic, while stating that the city needs more than a “Monday morning quarterback” fueled by “out-of-town special interest money.” When asked for his thoughts on Crist spending approximately $1.5 million on the primary yet failing to garner over 50% of the vote, Welch said, “You can’t buy credibility.” ​ Crist responded to the mayor’s criticism after a brief victory speech. “I wish he weren’t so negative, you know, he ought to feel good about where he ended up tonight, and ought to be positive,” he said of Welch. ​ “I’m not going to be negative on him tonight, because our country and our county and our city deserve better,” Crist continued. “I’m better than that, and he should be, too.” Voter turnout surpassed the 2021 mayoral primary, which Ken Welch won by over 21 points. (Photo by Mark Parker) The 31.6% of eligible Pinellas County voters who cast their ballots in the primary election helped decide several other notable local and state races. Those include: ​ Governor (Republican Primary) ​ U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (49.7% in Pinellas) handily defeated Lt. Gov. Jay Collins (27.1%). ​ Governor (Democratic Primary) ​ Pinellas resident and former U.S. Rep. David Jolly (71%) secured a decisive victory over public school teacher Dayna Foster (11.9%). ​ U.S. Senate (Republican Primary) ​ Pinellas voters overwhelmingly chose Sen. Ashley Moody (81%) over technology consultant Chris Gleason (13%). ​ U.S. Senate (Democratic Primary) ​ State Rep. Angie Nixon (52%), a Democratic Socialist, scored an upset victory over retired Army Lt. Col. Alex Vindman (48%). ​ U.S. Representative, District 16 (Republican Primary) ​ Sydney Gruters (67.1%), executive director of the New College Foundation, bested business executive Ed Pope (21.6%). ​ U.S. Representative, District 16 (Democratic Primary) ​ Former Sarasota Mayor Kelly Kirschner (44.4%) paced a crowded field. Educator and U.S. Air Force veteran Tamika Lyles (24.77%) finished second. ​ U.S. Representative, District 13 (Democratic Primary) ​ Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leela Gray (65.1%) defeated high school teacher Brandt Robinson (26.4%). ​ State Senator, District 16 (Democratic Primary) ​ State Rep. Fentrice Driskell (54.5%) outlasted fellow Rep. Michelle Rayner (45.5%). ​ State Senator, District 18 (Democratic Primary) ​ Former paramedic and firefighter Karla Kemp (59.9%) defeated real estate property manager Linda Kellis Harris (40.1%). State Representative, District 62 (Democratic Primary) ​ Community activist Kyandra Darling (61.7%) handed former Rep. Wengay Newton (38.3%) his fifth electoral loss in six years. ​ St. Pete City Council, District 6 (Non-Partisan) ​ Nonprofit consultant Linsey Grove (28.4%) and Trevory Mallory (22.7%), president of a homebuyer assistance organization, will compete to replace Councilmember Gina Driscoll in the Nov. 3 general election. The district encompasses downtown St. Petersburg. ​ Hillsborough County ​ The voter turnout in Hillsborough County was just 25.6%, six points lower than Pinellas. However, the percentage of eligible residents casting a vote slightly increased from the 2022 primary (25.3%). ​ U.S. Representative, District 14 (Republican Primary) ​ Former State Rep. Mike Beltran (45.6% in Hillsborough) defeated former Rep. Kevin Steele (30.2%) and will now challenge U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor in the redrawn district. ​ U.S. Representative, District 15 (Democratic Primary) ​ U.S. Army veteran Robert People (62.3%) will now face incumbent U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee in the general election. ​ U.S. Representative, District 12 (Democratic Primary) Former County Commissioner Kimbery Overman (55%) bested physician Daren McAuley (45%). Incumbent U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis awaits in the general election.

For Dr. Vikki, launching the organization is an invitation for women to redefine success by making space for themselves without guilt. (Photo: Rest and Re-create) For generations, many women, particularly Black women, have carried the weight of family, careers, caregiving, and community while placing their own well-being at the bottom of the priority list. A new wellness organization founded by St. Petersburg native Dr. Vikki T. Gaskin-Butler is working to change that by creating intentional spaces where women can simply rest. Rest and Re-create LLC officially launched this summer with a mission to help women reclaim rest, restoration, and personal transformation through coaching, retreats, workshops, speaking engagements, and corporate training. Co-founded by Dr. Vikki and Dr. Stephanie Z. Reed, the organization focuses on helping individuals and organizations reconnect with themselves and each other while promoting healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. The launch comes at a time when conversations surrounding mental health, burnout, and self-care have become increasingly important. For many women, especially those balancing multiple roles, the pressure to constantly perform leaves little room for personal restoration. "Rest isn't something we earn after everything else is done - it's something we deserve simply because we're human," said Dr. Vikki, founder of Rest and Re-create. "This organization exists to give women real tools, real community, and real permission to pause from daily overperformance and survival mode." Rather than viewing rest as a luxury, the founders believe it is essential to overall wellness. Their programs are designed to help participants slow down, reconnect with themselves, and build supportive relationships with others navigating similar experiences. Although much of the organization's work centers on Black women and women of color, Rest and Re-create also develops customized experiences for diverse communities, men, and organizations seeking wellness-focused programming. Each retreat and workshop is intentionally designed around the unique needs of its participants, creating environments where people feel safe enough to release stress and heal. One of the organization's first major offerings is Stillness by the Shore: Rest and Reflect, a three-day wellness retreat scheduled for October 9–11, 2026, at Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor. Set along Florida's Gulf Coast, the retreat invites Black women to temporarily step away from the demands of everyday life and embrace a weekend devoted entirely to rest, reflection, and self-care. Participants can expect an intentionally curated atmosphere that encourages restoration while they connect with other women who understand their unique stressors. Registration for the inaugural retreat closes on September 1. In addition to its retreat experiences, Rest and Re-create is launching Healing Conversations, a six-week virtual wellness experience created exclusively for women of African descent. Meeting weekly online, the program combines elements of a support group and coaching experience to create what organizers describe as a confidential sanctuary for honest dialogue, personal growth, and authentic connection. Women are encouraged to share openly, reflect deeply, and build meaningful relationships in an environment grounded in trust. The inaugural cohort will meet Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m., beginning Aug. 11 and continuing through Sept. 15. To preserve the intimacy of the experience, enrollment was intentionally limited to just 8 to 10 participants, allowing every woman the opportunity to be seen, heard, and supported. Registration closed August 8. The organization's approach reflects a growing movement that recognizes wellness as more than physical health. Emotional restoration, meaningful relationships, and opportunities for reflection are increasingly being viewed as essential components of living well. By combining evidence-based coaching with community-centered experiences, Rest and Re-create hopes to equip women with practical tools they can carry into their everyday lives long after a retreat or workshop ends. Instead of waiting until burnout forces a pause, Rest and Re-create encourages women to intentionally prioritize recuperation as a pathway to greater resilience, healthier relationships, and renewed purpose.

St. Petersburg mayoral candidates, from left: Kevin Batdorf, Jim Large, Maria Scruggs, Charlie Crist, City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, and Mayor Ken Welch participate in a forum in June. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) For many voters, St. Petersburg’s hotly contested mayoral race is a referendum on the city’s direction. Today, that debate moves away from the stage and social media to the ballot box. ​ Residents, regardless of registered party, have until 7 p.m. to make their voices heard. While the mayoral race will likely not be settled tonight - one of six candidates would have to earn over 50% of the vote - the results will determine who advances to a runoff in the Nov. 3 general election. ​ A crowded field of institutional and grassroots challengers includes former Congressman and Gov. Charlie Crist, two-term City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, retired St. Petersburg Fire Rescue Chief Jim Large, former NAACP President Maria Scruggs, and businessman Kevin Batdorf. All hope to unseat incumbent Mayor Ken Welch. ​ Between making final polling stops, each candidate shared their thoughts on the journey that brought them here with Power Broker Magazine. Here are their responses, lightly edited for length and clarity, in alphabetical order: ​ Kevin Batdorf ​ “I think the campaign has gone very well,” Batdorf said of the race. “There are some slighted news stories because, well, they support different people. It’s always going to be that way. Everybody that I’ve talked to had a positive response to my messaging.” ​ “I’m going to show people how to run a campaign on $5,000 or less, not $2 million,” Batdorf said, referring to Crist’s record haul. “If I get the support I expect … I really believe I can be in the top two today.” ​ Charlie Crist ​ “I feel so blessed, and also humbled, at the outpouring of support we’ve seen throughout this campaign,” Crist said in a statement. “Whether it’s a teacher struggling to live in the city they work, or a firefighter picking up an extra shift so his kids can play soccer or go to dance class, everyone keeps saying the same thing: they’re struggling, and they don’t feel like help is on the way because their city has been on pause.” ​ “Today’s election is a reflection of that; it’s democracy in action,” Crist added. “I’m grateful to everyone who has cast a ballot so far.” ​ Brandi Gabbard ​ “We feel fantastic,” Gabbard said in a brief interview. “It has certainly been a long, hard few months, but I have been so encouraged by our supporters … and the number of people who I’ve never met before that are really focused on the future of our city and a positive vision about how we move forward. ​ “I think it just really speaks to where people are when it comes to politics,” Gabbard said of recent momentum. “I think people are hungry for someone - and a message and platform - that focuses on the issues of our city. We believe in a city that works for everyone, and that is the message we have been very clear about sharing since day one.” ​ Jim Large “On this election day, I pause to express my gratitude to every resident who opened their door, shared concerns, volunteered, contributed, answered a phone, placed a sign in their yard, or placed their full trust in this campaign,” Large said in a statement. “I entered this race believing St. Petersburg deserves experienced, accountable leadership focused on results - not politics as usual.” ​ “This campaign has confirmed what I’ve always known: our city is full of people who care deeply and want a government that listens and delivers,” Large continued. “Whatever the outcome, I’m proud of a positive, issues-focused campaign built on leadership, accountability, resolve, grit and experience.” ​ Maria Scruggs ​ “Coming into the election, you’re reflecting on all the things that have happened over the course - for me, it’s been over a year - and thinking about the things that have gone well,” Scruggs said in a brief interview. “And all the things we’ve been able to accomplish with the petitions, the fundraising, and enough fundraising to do what we needed to do as a grassroots campaign. It just always appeared that we had enough at the right time, so we feel really, really good going into today.” ​ “I hope that there’s a day when we get out of the media and the money driving how our elected officials are selected because it really does a disservice to public service,” Scruggs added. “If we’re able to pull this off, it would very much change the dynamics on a local level.” ​ Ken Welch ​ “I’m feeling optimistic,” said Welch in a brief interview. “I’m thankful for the progress this city has made over my term. But especially because it’s been less than two years since the most devastating hurricanes that we have ever faced, and just how quickly we’ve recovered. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue that progress and get us to an even better position to be a resilient city.” ​ “The record amount of outside money … $2.2 million to influence a local election is a big change,” Welch said when asked for a key campaign takeaway. “What I’m looking forward to is actually having a substantive debate, and not just platitudes from a well-funded opponent. It’s really important that the people of St. Pete know what they’re getting in their next mayor.” To view your polling place, visit the website here.

Stakeholders from the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital tour a simulation room following a $33 million expansion of the College of Nursing. (Photo courtesy of USF Health) As healthcare systems statewide struggle to keep pace with patient demand, the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital are forging a new model of clinical readiness. ​ The two institutions celebrated the opening of a newly expanded USF Health College of Nursing, a $33 million project, with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting on Aug. 14. A cutting-edge simulation hub will anchor the new three-story, 42,000-square-foot facility. ​ Florida faces a projected shortage of nearly 20,000 registered nurses over the next decade, according to USF’s announcement. Local stakeholders believe the new state-of-the-art facility will help mitigate an ongoing crisis and ensure graduates are prepared to face the realities of modern medicine. ​ “At USF, we believe one of our greatest responsibilities is preparing the people Florida needs,” said USF President Moez Limayem. “This facility will help us educate even more nursing students, strengthen the talent pipeline, and prepare graduates who are ready to enter the workforce with the confidence, skill, and experience to provide exceptional care.” A state allocation funded the expansion, while a multimillion-dollar investment from Tampa General Hospital (TGH) helped fund a simulation hub. (Photo by Freddie Coleman) USF already graduates more new nurses than any institution in Florida. However, the university is not about to rest on its laurels. ​ As part of the expansion, the College of Nursing has committed to graduating an additional 500 students by 2028. The school is already on track to exceed that goal. ​ The centerpiece of the expansion - the Tampa General Hospital Nursing Simulation Center - was engineered to bridge the gap between abstract theory and real-world clinical chaos. Supported by a $4.4 million investment from TGH and encompassing the building’s first floor, the facility features 12 clinical exam rooms, six high-fidelity simulation rooms, six control rooms, four simulation learning labs, six debriefing classrooms, and a multipurpose lab. ​ Students will utilize the unique spaces to develop and refine real-world nursing skills, such as administering medications and identifying sepsis, in a controlled setting where mistakes are allowed and teach critical lessons. Usha Menon, dean of the College of Nursing, said the expansion represents growth, opportunity, and “a commitment to meeting one of Florida’s greatest healthcare needs.” “Every student who walks through these doors, every discovery made here, and every patient whose life is improved because of the education that happens inside this building, will be part of the legacy we celebrate today,” Menon added. USF already graduates more new nurses than any other institution in Florida. (Photo by Freddie Coleman) A state allocation approved in 2022 funded the expansion. Construction began in 2024 and is on time and on budget, according to USF. ​ The new building’s second floor includes a “premier classroom” that can accommodate up to 160 students, a multipurpose room, study spaces, and an additional lobby area. USF expects its third floor, which will house research labs, to open in January 2027. ​ For students like Ariana Sawyer, the investments are personal. While the technology is impressive, she views the facility as a sanctuary for the trial and error required to achieve excellence in the field. ​ “Someday, someone will trust us with their life, and we want to be ready,” said Sawyer, student council president for the College of Nursing. “Because of USF, we will be ready to provide exceptional care.” The project is another physical manifestation of a partnership with TGH that dates back to 1970. Hospital and university leadership have since expanded their collaboration across four colleges to bolster academic, research, and clinical efforts throughout Tampa Bay. ​ USF Health and TGH now boast one of the nation’s leading networks, with over 1,000 providers annually caring for more than one million patients. John Couris, CEO of Tampa General, noted that “nurses are the heart of every health system, and investing in their education is one of the most meaningful ways we can strengthen patient care for generations to come.” ​ Founded in 1973, the USF Health College of Nursing now enrolls nearly 2,000 students. It boasts the state’s top-ranked Master of Science in Nursing program and hosts the Florida Center for Nursing, a state-funded workforce development facility. ​ USF Health’s expanding footprint also extends across the bay with a new four-year Freshman Nursing Pathway program on the St. Petersburg campus. The initiative will allow approximately 85 students to begin preparing for a nursing career immediately after entering college each year.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor is warning that privatizing the passenger screening process at Tampa International Airport will jeopardize hundreds of federal jobs and associated benefits. (Photo courtesy of TPA) Tampa International Airport (TPA) finds itself at the center of a deepening controversy over its voluntary participation in a federal program that outsources passenger screening. ​ Privatizing the airport’s passenger-screening workforce through the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) nascent Gold+ initiative would replace over 700 federal officers at TPA with a private contractor, according to Congresswoman Kathy Castor. ​ Her letter to local aviation leadership, dated Aug. 4, also warned that profit-driven corporate interests, potential cuts to training or wages, and fragmented oversight on equipment management would mark a dangerous step backward from unified federal standards adopted after 9/11. TPA is one of three airports nationwide to opt in to Gold+. ​ A day later, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) filed a lawsuit to force the TSA to release records that will “shed light on the agency’s secretive push to expand the privatization of airport security screening functions.” The union represents over 600 officers at TPA. ​ “TSA has been keeping everyone in the dark about its privatization plans - TSA employees, members of Congress, airport authorities, and the flying public,” said AFGE president Everett Kelley in a statement. “And it’s little wonder why - this privatization expansion is a major departure from the aviation security system established by Congress in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.” ​ Gold+ is a voluntary federal program that allows TSA-approved contractors to manage checkpoint screening and technology. The agency would continue setting security standards. ​ According to its website, Gold+ will “unlock innovation, expand screening capacity, and achieve world-class security and customer experience” through public-private partnerships. Many details remain scarce, however, and Castor expects full implementation by May 2027. ​ AFGE claims that TSA has developed and marketed Gold+ to airports since “at least August 2025, but the union and public learned that the program existed “by accident” when a flier was found at Orlando International Airport and shared with the media. ​ An announcement states that the union filed a Freedom of Information Act request in May and has yet to receive any records or a determination on its request. An attorney representing AFGE said its members and taxpayers have a right to know how TSA “has spent months lavishing its vendors with lucrative contracts while keeping its sworn officers in the dark.” ​ Castor noted that the vast majority of security personnel at TPA “continued reporting for duty throughout government shutdowns - even when their paychecks did not arrive.” She implored airport leadership to “stand by them and reverse the plan to eliminate more than 700 federal officers and put their pay, health coverage, and earned retirement benefits at risk in favor of a private, for-profit contractor.” “To replace these federal officers with a private contractor is to risk public safety, place profit above people, and jeopardize the livelihoods of those who have served us faithfully,” Castor said. “Twenty-five years after the 9/11 attacks, when terrorists exploited lax airport security screeners, TPA should not weaken its safety framework.” ​ TPA Chief Operating Officer John Tiliacos also mentioned recent government shutdowns when addressing the controversy at a Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board meeting on Aug. 6. He said airports “cannot simply hope the problem won’t happen again,” and Gold+ could provide a solution. ​ “Following the last shutdown, the TSA approached Tampa International and asked us to consider the Gold+ program,” Tiliacos explained. “We saw some clear benefits in protecting and enhancing our operational resilience, efficiency, and passenger experience.” Airports in Des Moines and Charleston have also opted into Gold+, which allows TSA to share program and procurement details. Tiliacos said the transition, if pursued, would prioritize maintaining high security standards while enhancing technology deployment through a commercial, rather than federal, timeline. ​ He emphasized that this decision is driven by the need for operational predictability and improved passenger experiences, rather than dissatisfaction with existing TSA personnel. TPA is currently reviewing the TSA's draft work statement and advocating for several workforce protections before making a final decision. ​ “If we find that this does not protect our operation, we will say so publicly, and we will advise this board publicly,” Tiliacos said of Gold+.

A Duke Energy truck in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The company no longer has a franchise agreement in St. Petersburg, and is warning city officials of the potential fallout. (Photo courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) St. Petersburg is entering uncharted territory as its 30-year franchise agreement with Duke Energy Florida has officially expired, triggering a high-stakes standoff between city leadership and the utility giant. ​ Duke, in an Aug. 7 letter addressed to Mayor Ken Welch, warned that the expiration leaves millions in franchise fees, critical legal protections, and future local investments in jeopardy. City Councilmember Richie Floyd is dismissing the missive as little more than a political play. ​ The agreement, which ended on July 31, governed everything from the use of public rights-of-way to liability allocation and allowed St. Petersburg to collect approximately $23.5 million in franchise fees. Duke also pays the city nearly $29 million in annual utility taxes. ​ Duke’s letter claims that “no negotiations are currently scheduled,” and “believes it is in the best interests of both parties to renew the franchise agreement.” ​ Welch’s office disputed the conglomerate’s sense of urgency and uncertainty in a statement to Power Broker Magazine. “The franchise agreement remains in place, and there will not be an interruption in service,” said Samanth Bequer, public information officer. ​ The administration is “simultaneously moving forward with the city council’s requested municipal electric utility feasibility study,” she added. ​ According to the letter, the decision to consider acquiring Duke’s electric distribution system “raises important questions” regarding the future of a relationship that, when including the utility’s predecessors, has lasted for over a century. The company's headquarters are in St. Petersburg. ​ Floyd, a vocal proponent of exploring a municipal utility, voted in favor of the feasibility study in June. He believes there are now “political reasons” for Duke’s letter. ​ Welch is campaigning for a second term. The utility publicly aired its concerns three weeks before the primary election. ​ Floyd pointed to other municipalities as evidence. “Clearwater just went without an agreement for a while - there was no problem there,” he said. “The City of Pensacola went years without an agreement, and there was no problem there.” ​ “So, why are they doing this to us?” Floyd continued. “This letter really feels like a political play to me.” ​ Concerns ​ Duke noted that the expired agreement included indemnification clauses that protected it against property damage and personal injury claims arising from power infrastructure within public rights-of-way. Those legal protections are now “unclear.” ​ “Also, long-term infrastructure planning and resiliency investments are best supported by stable governance structures and clear expectations regarding future system ownership and operation,” wrote the company, which also touted its reliability, storm-hardening, and grid modernization efforts. ​ Duke’s foundation has distributed over $8 million throughout Pinellas County since 2020, according to a website highlighting its commitment to the area. The company also supports several local organizations, including the Woodson African American Museum of Florida, the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, the St. Petersburg Innovation District, the NAACP’s St. Petersburg chapter, and St. Pete Pride. ​ The publicly traded utility “remains interested in exploring opportunities that support St. Petersburg’s economic development, resiliency objectives, and broader community priorities. However, the letter adds that those discussions “are most productive when they’re built upon a clear and stable long-term relationship.” Councilmember Richie Floyd believes Duke’s letter was politically motivated. (Photo by Mark Parker) Duke wrote that the most immediate issue is uncertainty regarding franchise fees. The company collects the 6% charge - approximately $2 million monthly - from customers and transfers it to the city. ​ The letter cited a Florida administrative rule prohibiting utilities from collecting franchise fees from non-customers. Floyd said Duke’s warnings don’t hold water. ​ “The way this works was settled by the Florida Supreme Court in 2004,” he said, referencing a landmark ruling against Duke’s predecessor. “When the contract expires, we continue as though everything's the same until a new agreement is reached.” ​ Duke also seemingly refutes its own argument. The letter concludes with a pledge to “continue serving customers in the city with the same focus on safety, reliability, and responsiveness.” ​ A draft MOU In June, Power Broker Magazine obtained a draft memorandum of understanding (MOU) that outlines a broad strategy for future collaboration with Duke. The eight-page document covers community alignment, affordability, resilience, sustainability, and guiding principles. ​ A separate, draft 10-year franchise agreement includes a buyout clause. Ana Gibbs, director of corporate communications for Duke, noted the utility had not agreed to the city’s terms. ​ Duke’s letter states that an MOU could include “additional initiatives, partnerships, or other commitments intended to create value for customers and the community” - all aspects of the city’s draft version. ​ The accompanying draft franchise agreement, however, would allow officials to request a valuation and condition assessment of Duke’s electric system after nine years. They would analyze the results to validate cost estimates, and then have the right to purchase utility assets within the city. ​ Duke - now referencing a potential purchase, not fee collections - is “evaluating the distinction between circumstances here and the Supreme Court ruling” that allowed Winter Park to create a municipal utility. That agreement contained acquisition provisions. ​ In June, Gibbs said the city’s “decision to conduct a feasibility study pauses negotiations.” Floyd vehemently defended the initiative and expense. ​ “It would be absurd and irresponsible for us to sign a new agreement for something so important without having done our due diligence and looked into the issue,” Floyd said. “We can have discussions, but we can't finalize anything without the data that we've requested. ​ “I know that they’ve had negotiations, and I expect them to continue. It’s going to be up to the council, and the council’s the one who approved the study in the first place.”

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One of Troy’s most notable international achievements occurred at the Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls, Ontario. (Photo via Troy Alston) In the world of endurance sports, few athletes possess the sheer vertical tenacity of Troy R. Alston. Recently, the Tampa Bay region celebrated a milestone as Alston was officially certified by Atlas World Records for his latest feat: achieving the most documented stair-climbing race victories within a single state or province. Between 2010 and 2026, Alston secured an astounding 70 victories across Florida, marking his third Atlas World Record and further solidifying his legacy as one of the most dominant stair climbers in the sport's history. While Alston is known internationally for his athletic prowess, he leads a balanced life. By day, he serves as the Marketing Coordinator at St. Petersburg College. In this professional role, Alston applies his strategic expertise to help connect students and families with educational opportunities. His work in higher education marketing requires the same focus and leadership that he displays on the stairs. Originally a track and field athlete, he began climbing stairs as a rigorous training exercise for the 400-meter hurdles. The explosive power and cardiovascular endurance required to conquer vertical inclines provided the perfect conditioning for the track. However, what started as a supplement to his hurdles training soon evolved into a primary passion. He discovered a natural talent for the "vertical mile," and it wasn't long before he transitioned from the horizontal track to the skyscrapers of the world. Troy is an SPC marketing coordinator (Photo via St. Petersburg College) As the founder of StairClimbElite, Alston has turned his personal passion into a platform for elite vertical athletes. His evolution into an international athlete has been nothing short of spectacular. Over the course of his career, he has competed in more than 147 stair-climbing races across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His resume includes establishing 50 course records, a testament to his consistency and speed across varied architectural landscapes. One of his most notable international achievements occurred at the Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls, Ontario. There, Alston shattered a 32-year-old course record, earning him the prestigious Key to the City and international recognition for his endurance. Beyond the records and the accolades, Alston’s competitive drive is rooted in service. Throughout his 15-year career, he has prioritized charity events, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for critical causes. He has been a fixture at events supporting the American Lung Association, the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and The DONNA Foundation. For Alston, every step taken in a stairwell is an opportunity to support those facing their own uphill battles, particularly in the realm of health and pediatric research. Maintaining an elite athletic career while working full-time in higher education is no small feat. Alston credits his success to discipline and a lifelong commitment to perseverance. Whether he is navigating the complex marketing landscape for St. Petersburg College or sprinting up the emergency exits of a 60-story skyscraper, his approach remains meticulous preparation and an unwavering drive to finish strong. This balance allows him to remain grounded in his community while representing the Tampa Bay region on the global stage. The recent publication of his feature by Atlas World Records acts as a capstone to a remarkable decade and a half of competition. With 70 Florida victories now officially in the books, Alston shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to inspire both his colleagues in academia and his fellow athletes in the stairwell, proving that with leadership and dedication, one can truly reach the summit of multiple disciplines.

Caption: An African American couple holding hands. (Stock image) A quiet demographic shift has been unfolding in Pinellas County for more than two decades, one that mirrors a national pattern but now sets the county apart from other parts of the Tampa Bay region. Census data, released in early 2026, shows for the first time in measured history, a majority of Black adults in Pinellas have never walked down the aisle. According to data spanning 2000 to 2024, the share of ‘never married’ Black residents climbed from about 39% in 2000 to just over 50% today — a gain of more than 10.7 percentage points over a quarter century. That makes Pinellas the only one among eight Tampa Bay counties where Black adults who have never married are a majority of the population. In addition, the increase in the ‘never married’ population was bigger in Pinellas than in other counties in the region. Its 10.7 percentage-point increase since 2000 outpaces the other Tampa Bay counties, ahead of Sarasota (+8.3 points), Hillsborough (+7.9), Manatee (+7.5), Hernando (+7.2), Citrus (+6.7), Polk (+6.3), and Pasco (+5.9). Within Pinellas, white non-Hispanic residents also saw an increase in the never-married rate. However, two things stand out in comparing the two groups. One, the uptick was smaller for white residents, from about 20% in 2000 to 26% in 2024 – a six percentage-point climb. And two, African Americans remain twice as likely to be ‘never married, compared to their white neighbors. The racial gap — now approaching 24 percentage points — is wider today than it was in the year 2000. The trends are not unique to Pinellas. Across Florida and the country, Black Americans are marrying at rates well below those of white Americans. Florida’s Black population overall shows about 48% never married, compared to roughly 25% for white Floridians. Data released by the Pew Research Center shows that on a national level, nearly 50% of Black adults have never married. For Tampa Bay area experts such as Shamika T. Askew, Esq., the owner and managing Attorney of the Law Office of Shamika T. Askew, the results are not surprising. “I don't believe that some of us were properly taught about or observed healthy, loving, and lasting marriages,” says Askew. “Some of us grew up in dysfunctional and broken families, and the media does not portray healthy, whole, and healed families.” Caption: Pastor Quincy Stratford and his wife Jennifer have been married for over 20 years. (Photo courtesy of Quincy Stratford) Pastor Quincy Stratford of Carmel Friendship Church in Wesley Chapel shares the same sentiment. Growing up an 80s and early 90s kid, he recalled his only example of a positive Black family and marriage unit was the Huxtables of The Cosby Show. “If you think about the shows that shaped the Gen X's and those are the parents of the millennials, who are the parents of the Z's…if you think about those shows, you got shows like Martin, you got shows like Living Single, you have the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, but it was primarily about Will, and so you know the marriage wasn't at center point,” says Stratford. “I don't think we saw much in the media on TV that highlighted the importance of the Black family unit, a husband and wife.” Caption: Shamika T. Askew, Esquire is the Owner and Managing Attorney of the Law Office of Shamika T. Askew. (Photo courtesy of Shamika Askew) Why marriages fail Researchers at institutions including the University of North Carolina and the University of California have concluded that while labor market disparities and incarceration clearly play a role, they still don’t fully account for the Black-white gap in marriage formation. Askew observed that some of the main factors why Black marriages fail include the lack of accountability for any wrongdoing; the lack of mutual respect; and the lack of vision for the family's future. “ I strongly believe that we were created for companionship,” says Askew. “Unfortunately, our trauma and bad relationship experiences have caused us to feel safer and more secure in situationships rather than in long-term commitment. Stratford also points out that people enter relationships with the wrong mindset. “We have lost our ability to simply be a servant to one another,” he says. “I think we like the thought of marriage, and we like the idea of marriage, but we struggle doing the things associated with the maintenance of the marriage.” Caption: Kacey L. Jenkins, PhD, LMFT, PMH-C, EMDRIA Certified Therapist (Photo courtesy of Kacey Jenkins) Marital instability can also have a lasting impact. According to a peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Family Psychology, shared by Kacey L. Jenkins, PhD, LMFT, PMH-C, an EMDRIA Certified Therapist, adults who grew up in divorced households entered their own relationships with significantly lower commitment and lower confidence in marital success. “Although Black adults may be exposed to higher rates of marital instability than other groups, research shows that the relational instability does not push Black adults into romantic partnerships, but instead leads to a delay in formal marriage with individuals relying more heavily on being single or their extended family networks, which results in less risk of an early divorce,” says Jenkins. Yet those findings do not mean people are dodging the aisle altogether. Jenkins says in her practice, specifically in the southeastern U.S., clients are not rejecting marriage. Instead, she says people are just waiting longer to tie the knot and break toxic cycles. “It's clients in their mid-thirties to late forties who genuinely want long-term partnerships, family, and children, but haven't found their right fit yet,” says Jenkins. According to Jenkins, Gallup's research found Black Americans maintain a high regard for the institution of marriage. “So this isn't about not valuing love or partnership. It's about navigating very real structural and relational barriers that researchers describe as an interconnected matrix of sociological and psychological constraints, including documented partner availability gaps, employment disparities, and the accumulated weight of systemic stress on Black relationships.” Caption: Pastor Quincy with wife Jennifer spending time together at the gym. (Photo credit: Quincy Stratford) Breaking toxic cycles The desire to break those toxic cycles is a drive for many Black couples. Licensed family and marriage therapist April Lancit of April Lancit & Associates found that many Black adults are increasingly prioritizing healthy relationships over simply achieving the milestone of marriage. “There is growing awareness around self-care, self-love, trauma, attachment, and emotional well-being,” says Lancit. “People are developing a deeper understanding of how intergenerational trauma, chronic stress, and unresolved family issues can impact relationships.” Caption: April Lancit of April Lancit & Associates Lancit continued, “As a result, many individuals are being more selective about who they choose to build a life with. They recognize that entering a relationship with someone who has not addressed their own emotional wounds can create significant challenges. For some, the pursuit of peace, personal growth, and purpose has become more important than being in a relationship for the sake of companionship alone.” However, the pursuit of self-improvement is not as straight-and-narrow as booking an appointment with your local counselor. A study from the National Institutes of Health shows that African American couples seldom turn to couples therapy. Instead, they seek informal counseling from friends, family members, and the church. There is also an education dimension. As Black women have made substantial educational gains in recent decades, a growing mismatch in educational attainment between Black men and women has complicated the traditional pathway to marriage, creating challenges in dating. According to Lancit’s clinical research, many Black men have expressed feelings of inadequacy or emasculation when they perceive that they are unable to contribute financially at the same level as their partners. Conversely, many Black women report carrying a greater share of the emotional, mental, and relational labor within relationships. “The issue is not simply about income or education; it is about how societal expectations, identity, gender socialization, and power dynamics intersect within relationships,” says Lancit. “These realities can influence how Black men and women perceive themselves, evaluate potential partners, and navigate long-term commitment and marriage.” Photo caption: A man puts an engagement ring on woman's finger. (Stock image) The church’s role still matters As Black adults rethink traditional paths to marriage, faith leaders say the church still has an important role to play, but that role may also need to evolve. Pastor Stratford has been married for 26 years and is the father of five children. While he believes deeply in the sacredness of marriage (over 80% of his congregation is married), he also believes churches can do a better job at serving people who are not married rather than making matrimony part of spiritual success. “One thing the church has been guilty of is that we have made marriage the goal,” he says. “When some people have the gift of singleness, some people don't want to be married, some people don't want to be remarried, some people are widowed or widower.” He added, “I do believe that there is much room for improvement for the church as a whole, and particularly our church, to love singles better and to help them walk out a full and a whole life with God by themselves.” Partnership outside traditional marriage On the other hand, researchers are also careful not to conflate not marrying with not partnering or not parenting. Many Black adults form families, raise children, and maintain long-term relationships outside the legal institution of marriage. Jenkins observed a rise in cohabitation and that having a baby no longer comes with an expectation of marriage. “People are building their lives, sharing households, and raising children together without formalizing it legally,” Jenkins said. “Some of them desire the marriage license and some don't express the experience of not being legally married as a deficit. I also hear more people in the consideration phase thinking through what family formation looks like for them outside of traditional marriage timelines.” Local initiatives such as the federally funded Figuring it Out for the Child Program at USF’s Family Study Centers support parents in this scenario, specifically single Black parents who share a child. Each parent is paired with a specialist who stays with them from the start of pregnancy until the child’s first birthday. The program works with local community partners such as churches and the Florida Department of Health Pinellas County. Dr. James McHale is the Founding Chair of the Department of Psychology at USF St. Petersburg and one of the lead researchers of the Figuring Out Program. He shares with Power Broker Magazine via email that although the observation on whether parents were together or not was not the focus of their research, results of a ‘randomized controlled trial’ showed that it was extremely beneficial for coparents to collectively figure it out for their child. “Those who took part in the intervention program showed better coparenting, greater father involvement, and better infant mental health than the coparents who received existing Pinellas County support services for pregnant and parenting families only,” says McHale. Marriage still desired Despite shifting timelines and changing relationship dynamics, experts say one thing has remained remarkably consistent: marriage itself has not lost its appeal. Instead, today’s Black adults are approaching it more intentionally and strategically, determined not to fall into the unhealthy relationship patterns and trauma as their predecessors. A Pew survey showed that Black men were 36% more likely to be married. The question is: Are people willing to do the work? The most honest thing I can say about marriage is that it requires significant, sustained effort and commitment,” says Jenkins. “You are going to enter into marriage; you have to be willing to push through the hardships instead of looking for an exit and invest in the relationship early with premarital counseling. Increase your chances of building something healthy and lasting by being prepared for what's to come in the next season because the desire for connection, for partnership, and for family is valid and worthy of investment.”

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has officially reopened the Preserving Black Churches grant program! This vital initiative offers direct funding—ranging from $50,000 to $500,000—to help protect, restore, and uplift historic Black houses of worship and sacred sites. Whether your historic church needs critical physical repairs, financial planning, or expanded organizational capacity, this national program provides essential resources to safeguard these treasured cultural pillars. Applications are open now through September 11, 2026. Click here to apply!

The Largo Police Department is hiring a dedicated Victim Advocate to provide essential crisis support and advocacy for crime victims, including families impacted by domestic violence. In this impactful role, you will connect community members with critical resources and foster key local partnerships to build long-term support systems. If you want to make a meaningful difference in your community, this is your opportunity. Click here to apply today!

Unlock your leadership potential with the 100 Black Men of Tampa Bay Youth Academy! Open to youth ages 9–19 of all genders and backgrounds, this year-long mentorship program offers college campus visits, leadership workshops, networking, and scholarship opportunities. Meetings occur every 2nd Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hillsborough College – Brandon Campus, running from September 2026 through April 2027. Free snacks and materials are provided, with transportation assistance available. Seats are filling fast! Click here to apply today.

Applications are officially open for the 2026–2027 Delta Academy (grades 6–8) and Delta GEMS (ages 14–18) youth initiative programs! Hosted by the St. Petersburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., these transformative initiatives foster leadership, academic excellence, self-confidence, and college readiness. A mandatory orientation for participants and parents will take place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Enoch Davis Center. Click here to submit your application today!

Launch your career in Florida’s booming advanced manufacturing sector with free hands-on training at St. Petersburg College. SPC’s SMART Tech programs offer tuition-free, fully covered scholarships for in-demand fields including robotics, semiconductors, mechatronics, and automation. Choose from the 3-month Electronic Board Assembly Operator Program (starting August 17, 2026, with 5 certifications) or the 8-month Robotics and Semiconductor Technician Program (starting Spring 2027, with 10 certifications) taught at the Midtown Center. Call (727) 341-4445 or email workforce@spcollege.edu to apply today!

Empower the next generation of leaders with Men In The Making! Join us for our 2026–27 program orientation on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This transformative mentoring initiative equips young men with essential life skills, guidance, and community support to make the right choices for a successful future. The event takes place at our new location: SPC Gibbs Campus, Building SA (6605 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL). Visit meninthemaking.org to register and learn more today.

Mt. Zion Christian Academy is hiring a reliable, organized Part-Time Administrative Team Member to keep daily operations running smoothly. In this vital role, you will handle phone inquiries, record keeping, email correspondence, and calendar scheduling while serving as a warm presence for our school community. If you possess strong organizational skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and a passion for making a difference, we want to hear from you. Contact Principal Parrott at (813) 955-6272 today to submit your application and join our team!

A regional lifeline for transportation-disadvantaged residents in Pinellas County has ended due to an unexpected lapse in state funding. (Photo courtesy of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) The road to life-saving medical care has hit a dead end for hundreds of low-income Pinellas County residents who lack reliable, affordable transportation. ​ A stroke-of-the-pen veto by Gov. Ron DeSantis has dismantled the Pinellas County Transit Authority’s (PSTA) lifeline for transportation-disadvantaged patients. TD Tampa Bay, a curb-to-curb service that ferried residents across county lines for essential medical treatments, quietly ended on July 31. ​ PSTA spokesperson Amanda Boisen told Power Broker Magazine that many users were cancer patients. The agency relied on a $409,338 state grant to fund TD Tampa Bay between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. “During that time, TD Tampa Bay provided more than 6,000 trips to nearly 200 low-income residents for life-sustaining medical care at Moffitt Cancer Center and other locations,” Boisen said. ​ Instead of utilizing multi-stop buses, PSTA partnered with rideshare and wheelchair transport companies to offer the door-to-door service. TD Tampa Bay served patients whose income fell below 200% of the federal poverty line - $31,920 for one person - and had no other reliable means of transportation. ​ While the state’s Innovative Service Development grant ended on June 30, Boisen noted that PSTA “chose to give riders as much notice as possible to find alternatives for their transportation needs.” Tapping separate, local funding provided patients with nearly 400 rides throughout July. ​ There is a sliver of hope for those left stranded: A $50,000 grant recently awarded by Uber. PSTA is determining if the money could “assist a small portion of riders for life-sustaining trips, hopefully sometime later this fall,” Boisen said. “Beyond that, we will be exploring other options in hopes of bringing back this cross-county service in the future,” she added. “We’re exploring other funding options, but nothing I can share at the moment.” ​ The gaping hole in the region’s transportation infrastructure extends throughout Florida. The veto affects similar programs throughout Florida. (Photo courtesy of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) In 2022, TB Tampa Bay replaced a previous regional transportation program that also ended due to a lack of funding. The new service was a rare win for public transit advocates. ​ Florida’s Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged funded TB Tampa Bay and similar initiatives statewide through its Innovative Service Development Program (ISDP). The agency exists to provide low-income and disabled residents with necessary transportation to medical appointments, employment, educational, and other life-sustaining services,” according to its website. ​ Term-limited DeSantis eliminated $6 million earmarked for the ISDP from the state’s $117.6 billion budget in late June - without explanation. The appropriation appears as line item 2054-1 on page 13 of the governor’s veto list. ​ Special Needs Trust by State noted that the “commission’s own records show it requesting the program’s continuation and presenting funding recommendations as late as June 11.” The governor’s official announcement did not mention the life-saving program. While intra-county transportation-disadvantaged services will continue, St. Petersburg City Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders lamented the loss of the popular TD Tampa Bay program in a recent social media post. She also highlighted how it provided “life-sustaining, cross-county trips,” primarily to Moffitt and other medical facilities outside of Pinellas. ​ “Lord have mercy!” Figgs-Sanders succinctly concluded. ​ The state commission will host its first meeting since the veto on Sept. 17. For information on how to advocate for ISDP funding, visit the website here. ​

The Links Inc. was founded in 1946, is one of the nation's oldest and largest volunteer service organizations. Last year, the organization partnered with Miles College and donated essential items and food supplies to the campus student food pantry. The check was presented by Vanessa Falls, Southern Regional Director. ( Photos courtesy of Crystal Pruitt) Tampa will take center stage in 2027 as it welcomes one of the nation's premier gatherings of Black and brown professional women leaders. The Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated has selected the city to host its 49th Southern Area Conference from May 20–23. Led by Southern Area Director Vanessa R. Falls, the multi-day conference is expected to bring thousands of women from across the southeastern United States and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Throughout the week, attendees will conduct the organization's business, participate in leadership programming and expand their longstanding commitment to community service, participating in service projects across the greater Tampa area "Our organization has an incredible legacy of service," Falls said. "Beyond the economic impact of our presence in Tampa Bay, we are committed to uplifting communities, serving with intention, and driving meaningful change long after the conference ends." Southern Area Director Vanessa R. Falls and members of The Links Inc.participating in The Sandwich Project in Atlanta. Established in 1946, The Links, Incorporated is an international nonprofit volunteer service organization dedicated to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the cultural and economic vitality of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. Operating under the Southern Area mission, "Friends Transforming Communities Through Service as We Lead with Intentional Friendship and Service," the conference will carry the theme "Southern Grace by the Bay: Leadership, Legacy, and Links." Programming throughout the week will focus on the organization's five signature facets: National Trends and Services, International Trends and Services, The Arts, Services to Youth, and Health and Human Services. City officials say the conference is poised to be both an economic driver for the Tampa Bay community. "We are thrilled to welcome the 49th Area Conference of The Links, Incorporated to Tampa Bay," said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. "Hosting vibrant, premier conventions like this not only showcases our region's world-class hospitality, rich cultural heritage and dynamic community, but also delivers a powerful boost to our local economy. With an estimated economic impact of nearly $2 million, conference attendees will directly support our local hotels, small businesses, restaurants and hospitality workers who help make Tampa Bay such an exceptional destination." Since its founding, The Links has donated more than $27 million to charitable causes. Notable grantees include the Obama Presidential Center, the United Negro College Fund, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., the National Civil Rights Museum and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American Culture and History, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The organization has 84 chapters including one in Tampa with over 5,000 members. To learn more about The Links, go to linksinc.org.

Tampa Bay Business Accelerator's ninth cohort, its largest yet, features 13 diverse, growing small businesses. Participants have generated over $131 million in revenue. (Photo submitted by Tampa Bay Business Accelerator) In 2017, the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce launched a business accelerator to address a sobering reality - a widening revenue gap for disadvantaged companies. The organization has since evolved into a powerhouse. ​ Statistics underscore the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator’s (TBBA) regional impact. The diversity-focused nonprofit has served over 60 nascent companies, which have generated more than $131 million in revenue. ​ Formerly known as the Minority Business Accelerator, the free, two-year program is proving that the most effective way to strengthen Tampa Bay’s economy is through a structured system of collaborative mentorship. Dr. Meaza Stewart-Morrison, director of economic inclusion at the chamber, measures success by the number of entrepreneurs who “no longer have to navigate growth alone.” ​ “We knew that no single organization could solve every challenge facing a growing business,” Stewart-Morrison said. “But together, our community could create something much more powerful.” ​ That philosophy of community-led growth remains TBBA’s true north. Stakeholders realized that minority-owned businesses were an integral part of the region’s economy, but “generated a disproportionately small share of overall business growth,” Stewart-Morrison said. ​ The goal was to create a holistic, ongoing ecosystem of support rather than “just helping individual businesses grow,” she added. TBBA’s executive committee and board of directors now reads like a veritable who's-who of local corporate, civic, academic, and entrepreneurial leaders. Dr. Meaza Stewart Morrison, director of inclusion at the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, speaks at a Corporation to Develop Communities (CDC) of Tampa event. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Meaza Stewart-Morrison/LinkedIn) Selected participants undergo immersive training in financial engineering, high-stakes contract negotiation, and operational scaling, while simultaneously gaining direct access to elite circles of regional decision-makers and industry consultants. By eliminating barriers and bridging the divide between grassroots enterprises and expansion capital, the program acts as a regional pipeline for job creation and sustainable wealth. ​ “By helping entrepreneurs overcome disparities, remove barriers, and gain access to relationships, resources, and opportunities they need to scale, we’re building an economy that works for everyone,” Stewart-Morrison explained. “Growing businesses create quality jobs, purchase goods and services from other local companies, become suppliers for larger corporations, and reinvest in the neighborhoods where they live and work.” ​ Eight cohorts have graduated from the accelerator. The current 13-member class, the largest yet, will conclude next year. TBBA is currently accepting applications for its next cohort. ​ Participants have secured over $12 million in capital and created more than 1,000 jobs. Those metrics highlight how the right community, mentors, and technical assistance partners can provide access to opportunities that “once felt out of reach,” Stewart-Morrison said. ​ She noted that participating businesses represent a wide range of industries and vary dramatically in size and age. All are at a “pivotal point in their journey,” Stewart-Morrison added, and seek “strategic guidance, relationships, and resources that will help them scale to the next level.” ​ “What’s been especially rewarding is seeing the community grow alongside them,” she continued. “Many alumni continue giving back as mentors, speakers, Leadership Council members, and connectors for future cohorts.” Accelerator participants have raised over $12 million in funding. (Photo submitted by Tampa Bay Business Accelerator) The program dropped “minority” from its moniker in 2025. However, the shift was a mission statement meant to scale community support rather than a marketing pivot. ​ Including the term “Tampa Bay” casts a wide, regional net while reinforcing that “this work belongs to all of us,” Stewart-Morrison said. “We also realized that the best way to increase the diversity of voices, perspectives, and opportunities was to pull more seats to the table.” ​ “By welcoming more partners, more expertise, and more champions for small businesses, we’ve created a community where entrepreneurs have greater access to the people and resources that can help them grow,” she concluded. ​ Those efforts continue paying dividends. Recent success stories include an alumna who entered the accelerator with a $1.2 million small business and now operates a $12 million company. ​ Stewart-Morrison also noted that three participants cut ceremonial ribbons for new buildings in the past year. Expansions create jobs, enhance commercial corridors, and build confidence in Tampa Bay’s economy, she said. The most glaring signal of TBBA’s impact, however, is not found in a spreadsheet. Stewart-Morrison emphasized that “relationships are what make the numbers possible.” ​ “What began as an accelerator has evolved into a community of business leaders who continue investing in one another long after graduation,” she said. “That ripple effect is exactly what we hoped to create.” To apply for the upcoming Tampa Bay Business Accelerator cohort, visit the website here.

Serve your community and build a meaningful career as a Firefighter EMT or Paramedic. St. Petersburg Fire Rescue is hosting information sessions on August 6 and August 20, from 5:00 to 6:30 PM at the President Barack Obama Main Library. Meet the recruitment team, explore the hiring process, and discover if a life-saving role with St. Petersburg Fire Rescue aligns with your ambitions. Applications close August 28th. To register scan QR code in the flyer below.

Calling all authors, illustrators, literacy programs, and literary arts groups! Vendor applications are now officially open for the annual St. Pete Reads! Lit Fest, taking place Saturday, November 7th at The Woodson African American Museum of Florida. This vibrant festival celebrates books, culture, and community. It offers a premier platform to showcase your creative work, connect with passionate local readers, and inspire literacy across South St. Petersburg. Spotlights are limited for community programs and artists—don't miss your chance to participate. Click here to submit your vendor application.

Ready to land your next high-paying role? Join us on Wednesday, August 19, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Pinellas Job Corps Center (500 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg, FL) for an exclusive hiring event. Interview on the spot with top employers like Eckerd Connects and Exceed for full-time positions featuring competitive pay and benefits. Open roles include Academic & Vocational Instructors, Registered Nurses, Security Officers, CDL Drivers, and Supervisors. Bring your resume and prepare to get hired fast! Apply online today to jumpstart your career!

St. Petersburg Collegiate STEM High School is hiring a Part-Time Food Service Worker to join the Titans team in downtown St. Petersburg. Offering $15 per hour, this convenient position follows the school calendar—making it ideal for anyone seeking a structured, community-focused schedule. Email your resume to Romeo.Brittany@spcollege.edu to apply today!

Empower your community with financial support from the St. Petersburg Police Department’s Forfeiture Grant Program. Designed for neighborhood organizations, this program funds impactful local initiatives focused on crime prevention, neighborhood safety, drug education, and treatment services. There are no matching fund requirements or restrictions on requested amounts, giving your project the maximum opportunity to thrive. Whether launching a new safety effort or expanding an ongoing community project, your organization can secure critical funding to drive real change. Don't wait—proposals are due by August 31, 2026. Click here to apply today!

This year's winners include Ashley Reed and Dr. Lara & Memi of The Marriage Pinnacle (Photo: Famous Amos) The local culinary scene in St. Petersburg is buzzing with pride as Ashley Reed, the visionary founder of the popular food truck "The Brunch Munch," has been officially named a winner of the 2026 Famous Amos "Ingredients for Success" (IFS) Entrepreneurs Initiative. This prestigious national recognition places Reed among a select group of trailblazing Black business owners who are showing excellence in their industries. Honoring a Legacy of Success The Famous Amos "Ingredients for Success" initiative was launched by Ferrero North America in 2020 as a powerful platform to empower early-stage Black entrepreneurs. By providing a total of $150,000 in capital awards annually, split among three deserving winners, the program offers financial support. Winners also receive invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities, and educational resources. At its heart, the initiative honors the enduring legacy of Wally Amos and the "Famously You" ethos. It celebrates the unique qualities and individual spirit that each business owner brings to the table, ensuring that the next generation of Black-owned businesses has the tools necessary to thrive in a competitive market. The Brunch Munch: Food for the Soul and Community Ashley Reed’s "The Brunch Munch" food truck is a vehicle for community connection. Based in St. Petersburg, Reed has used her platform to bring people together through the universal language of food. Beyond serving delicious brunch favorites, her mission is rooted in social impact, specifically focusing on the preservation of culturally significant spaces. With the $50,000 award and the extensive resources provided by the IFS program, Reed is poised to take "The Brunch Munch" to new heights. This support will enable her to scale operations, reach more neighborhoods, and continue her vital mission of community preservation. The current address of the Brunch Munch is 925 22nd St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (Photo: Famous Amos)

Members of NAAIA at a networking event. (LinkedIn). As Tampa Bay continues to experience unprecedented growth, local Black insurance professionals are working to ensure the industry's leadership reflects the communities it serves. Earlier this year, the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) created a Tampa Bay Chapter. Chartered on Feb. 26, the chapter joins the national organization founded to increase representation and provide professional development, mentorship and leadership opportunities for African Americans working in insurance and risk management. Leading the effort locally is Cherdonna Epps-Gardner, president of NAAIA Tampa Bay and Operational and Technical Director at Aon Risk Insurance Services, who believes the chapter arrives at a pivotal moment for the region and wants to ensure the industry's workforce reflects the diverse communities it serves. “Tampa Bay is experiencing tremendous growth, and with that growth comes an incredible opportunity to shape the future of the insurance industry,” says Epps-Gardner. “While we continue to see more diverse talent entering the profession, Black professionals remain underrepresented in many areas, particularly in executive leadership, underwriting, brokerage, risk management, actuarial science, and specialty disciplines.” According to a 2025 Insurance Industry Blog survey, African Americans make up 14.7% of the less than 15% of the insurance workforce nationwide. In terms of representation Epps-Gardner says she wants to see more Black professionals not only occupy a seat at the table but prepare a seat for others. “Representation is about more than numbers; it is about visibility, access, influence, and creating pathways for others to succeed. When individuals see professionals who look like them leading organizations, serving clients, and making strategic decisions, they begin to see those careers as attainable.” Next event planned for August The chapter regularly hosts public networking events, professional development discussions, leadership conversations, and community engagement opportunities. In July, NAAIA hosted the Summer Sales Playbook: What's Working Right Now, a virtual roundtable featuring insurance growth strategist Maya Hill of The WIN Group Insurance Agency. On Aug. 20 at 6 p.m., NAAIA Tampa Bay will partner with Fifth Third Bank for an evening of networking and professional development designed to bring together insurance professionals, executives, young talent and industry allies. Mentoring next generation Epps-Gardner says the chapter welcomes professionals at every stage of their careers. Beyond networking is community outreach. NAAIA partners with local colleges, universities, student organizations, and community leaders to increase awareness of the many career paths insurance has to offer. “Insurance is one of the few industries that touches every business, every family, and every community,” says Epps-Gardner. “Our goal is to ensure young people understand not only what insurance is but also how they can build meaningful and rewarding careers within it.” The local chapter's leadership also includes Vice President Selena Stallworth, a Florida A&M University graduate with more than 25 years in the industry who serves with Travelers Indemnity Company, along with Treasurer Oliver Gray and Secretary Jasmine Gilbert. Epps-Gardner hopes the chapter becomes more than a professional organization but a catalyst for increasing Black leadership throughout the insurance industry. "I invite every Black insurance professional and every ally who believes in developing diverse talent to join us,” says Epps-Gardner. “ Together, we can educate, empower, mentor, and inspire the next generation of leaders while demonstrating the tremendous value that diversity brings to our industry. The future of insurance is being written today, and NAAIA Tampa Bay is committed to helping ensure that every talented professional has the opportunity to be part of that story. For more information about membership or upcoming events, visit tampabay.naaia.org or follow NAAIA Tampa Bay on LinkedIn.

The new school year is just around the corner, and communities across the region are coming together to help students and families start strong. Inside this special guide, you'll find more than 20 back-to-school events offering free school supplies, backpacks, health screenings, family resources, giveaways, and fun activities designed to prepare students for a successful year. Whether you're looking for an event in your neighborhood or planning ahead for the weeks before school begins, this comprehensive calendar connects you with organizations committed to supporting education and strengthening our community. Mark your calendar, gather the family, and take advantage of these incredible opportunities to kick off the school year with confidence! See Full List of Events here!

Jude Bruno is the first Black man, Haitian American, and millennial elected as Florida PTA president in the organization's 103-year history. (Photo courtesy of Florida PTA) Jude Bruno is breaking barriers as the new leader of the Florida Parent Teacher Association (PTA). For the first time in its 103-year history, the organization has elected a Black man, a Haitian American, and a millennial as its president. This historic moment happened earlier this month, starting a fresh chapter for child advocacy in Florida. Bruno officially started his new role during the 2026 Florida PTA Leadership Convention. The event was held from July 9-12 at the Omni Orlando Resort. He will lead the group for two years, from 2026 to 2028. Bruno grew up in Miami and went to public schools there. Today, he works as a union representative for United Teachers of Dade. He brings a lot of experience helping students and teachers to his new position. Sharing his thoughts with the Florida Courier, which covers Black life news, Bruno said: "My journey with PTA began as an elementary school student, where I learned that leadership starts with service and every voice matters. To now serve as president of Florida PTA is both humbling and deeply meaningful. I hope my story reminds every student that today’s volunteer or student leader can become tomorrow’s leader." He hopes that his story inspires today’s volunteer or student leader to become tomorrow’s leader. He also told the Florida Courier about his goals: "As Florida’s educational landscape continues to evolve, PTA’s role has never been more important. Together, we will strengthen family engagement, support public education, and ensure every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.”

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a dedicated Buyer to join its Procurement team in Largo, FL. Offering a competitive salary of $53,100–$76,995, this full-time role places you at the heart of law enforcement operations—managing vendor contracts, bidding specifications, and key supply purchases that keep the agency running smoothly. If you have purchasing or supply chain experience and want to make a meaningful impact in public service, this is your chance. Click here to apply for the Buyer position today.

Discover powerful new pathways to professional growth and local career advancement. This upcoming opportunity connects driven individuals directly with industry leaders, valuable resources, and exclusive networking channels. Whether you are looking to elevate your skills, transition into a high-demand field, or secure your next role, this is your chance to gain a competitive edge and build a thriving future. Click here to register and get started today.

For more than 50 years, we’ve been compassion in action ensuring stability, safety and well-being for all people regardless of age, gender identity, race or culture. Our business is one of caring, for those we serve and for each other. https://gulfcoastjfcs.org/jobs-available-at-gcjfcs/

The Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Office is hiring a Clerk Customer Service Specialist for its Criminal Section in Clearwater. Starting at $19.50 per hour, this role offers an exceptional opportunity to serve your community by managing public relations, processing legal documents, and handling financial transactions. Enjoy outstanding perks, including participation in the Florida Retirement System and comprehensive wellness benefits. Click here to apply now.