Transform your middle schooler's summer from July 27–31, 2025 (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) at SailFuture’s Career Exploration Summer Camp. This immersive, week-long experience takes students on an entrepreneurial journey from business concept to final creation. Participants will dive into hands-on screen-printing workshops, product design, and essential financial literacy lessons—all balanced with exciting boating adventures. It is the perfect blend of practical real-world skills, leadership development, and outdoor summer fun. Space is limited for this unique hands-on experience. Click here to register your student today.

Competing historic Gas Plant District redevelopment teams say they are willing to accommodate the Tampa Bay Rays remaining in St. Petersburg after their lease terminates in 2028. (Photos by Mark Parker/ Power Broker Magazine) The three development teams competing to reimagine the Historic Gas Plant District, currently home to Tropicana Field, are willing to accommodate the Tampa Bay Rays remaining in St. Petersburg after their lease terminates in 2028. ​Rays officials hope to open a new stadium in Tampa in time for the 2029 baseball season. However, ongoing funding concerns and the state’s recent push to eliminate most property taxes could jeopardize a deal that requires nearly $1 billion in public financing by forcing officials to further tighten their fiscal belts. ​Many stakeholders believe the team’s timeline was already overly optimistic, and Mayor Ken Welch has expressed his willingness to extend their lease in St. Petersburg. He also plans to select a Trop site redevelopment proposal this month. ​On May 18, Welch asked potential development groups a series of questions, including how they would adjust without delaying construction if the Rays request an extension. Their responses, due on May 29 and subsequently obtained through a records request, detail potential accommodations. ​Welch subsequently noted that, to ensure flexibility, the city’s invitation for proposals allowed developers to bid on one or more parcels or the entire 86 acres. “It’s really nothing new,” he said of the recent questions. ​“My offer to discuss a reasonable extension is still on the table,” Welch told Power Broker Magazine. “I know there are a lot of moving parts now, but a one or two-year extension is something we’d consider if it makes sense for the city of St. Pete. But we have to move on with the development of that property.” ​The Rays declined to comment. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (left) and St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch at Tropicana Field for the Tampa Bay Rays’ 2026 home opener. (Photos by Mark Parker/ Power Broker Magazine) ​Developer responses ​The latest effort to redevelop 86 acres of prime real estate - once home to the largest enclave of Black residents in St. Petersburg - began in October 2025 with an unsolicited proposal from Ark Investment Management, Ellison Development, and Horus Construction. The development team’s $6.8 billion pitch led Welch to launch a state-mandated land disposition process. ​ARK Ellison Horus will not commence site work until 2030, according to its response letter to Welch. That construction phase will focus on surface parking lots east of the stadium’s primary footprint, and the Trop will “remain entirely untouched” throughout the 2029 baseball season under the current plan. ​The development group doesn’t plan to demolish the Trop until 2037. ARK Ellison Horus said its construction sequencing provides a “meaningful buffer,” and the stadium can “remain operational well into the mid-2030s if needed, without holding the broader district hostage”. ​“We have been in active discussions with the Rays organization and are confident we can accommodate game-day parking for the full duration of their tenancy at Tropicana Field,” added the developers. “That coordination is already part of our planning assumptions, not an afterthought.” ​St. Petersburg native Thompson Whitney Blake, founder of Blake Investment Partners (BIP), has partnered with the Related Group, a Miami-based development firm, and several local organizations to form The Burg Bid. His $8.1 billion vision is the only other shortlisted proposal with a predetermined master plan for the entire Gas Plant. ​The development group, in their response letter, acknowledged that extending the Rays’ lease beyond 2028 would “require adjustments to construction phasing, site logistics, and parking operations.” However, The Burg Bid has intentionally incorporated flexibility into its proposal to accommodate “changing conditions, allowing redevelopment to continue while responding to evolving site requirements.” ​BIP has maintained a decade-long relationship with the current owners of the Rays, states the response. The firm advocated for a collaborative process that includes the city, team, and development group to address “any extension scenario.” ​“Similar to how the plan can adapt to future program elements or evolving community priorities, the development framework can be adjusted to support continued Rays operations while advancing the long-term vision for the Historic Gas Plant District,” wrote the developers. ​Foundation Vision Partners (FVP), led by Will Conroy, founder of Backstreets Capital, proposed a unique master planning and infrastructure-first approach to redeveloping the Gas Plant. The city would retain control of the land, and the group, which includes two members of the previous Rays and Hines development team, would act as an owner’s representative and advisor. ​FVP’s response letter does not mention the Rays. However, a resident posed the same question as the mayor during a community forum on May 28. ​Conroy said extending the lease would benefit local businesses. He also believes that a “strong and forceful negotiation by our city administration with a baseball team that has overstayed its welcome could yield a lot of money to help us pay for future infrastructure improvements.” ​“Frankly, I think we have a huge advantage over the other groups, because if you’re trying to capitalize and plan a full 86 acres, well, the baseball stadium presents a real problem,” Conroy continued. “If you’re taking a sequential approach to the dirt moving like we are … I think baseball could be there for 5,6,7 years, and not have an adverse impact on the cadence of development.” ​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.

Owner Brandi Gergle and staff at Coasis Restaurant & Bar. (Photo by Kaylen Ross/ Power Broker News) In Tampa’s Seminole Heights neighborhood, one restaurant has managed to exceed expectations about what a dining experience should be. Coasis Restaurant & Bar has quickly become one of the city’s most talked-about Black-owned restaurants with upscale dining and nightlife, blending Southern fusion cuisine, elevated cocktails, popping designs, and community-centered hospitality into a space that feels different. Founder Brandi Gergle is an entrepreneur based in the Tampa Bay area who has spent years building businesses centered around hospitality, beauty, and customer experience. For Gergle, branding and aesthetics play a central role in the business model. In today’s restaurant industry, visual identity matters almost as much as the menu itself. Coasis leans fully into the cultural moment with bold interiors, polished presentation, and shareable dishes and cocktails that resonate with younger diners and social media-driven audiences. Tampa’s dining scene has historically drawn influence from Cuban, Caribbean, Southern, and Gulf Coast traditions. Coasis incorporates many of these flavors while presenting them through a modern lens. Before entering the restaurant industry, Gergle built a following through her business, B Blaze Hair Boutique. That audience later became one of the foundations that helped introduce customers to Coasis when the restaurant first opened. “I started with my own business, B Blaze Hair Boutique, and a lot of my followers came from there as well as my partner’s business, so it was easy to reach out to those same people and say, hey, I’ve opened this restaurant, come check it out,” she said. “As a business owner, I’ve always believed that success comes from creating spaces where people feel welcomed, valued, and excited to return,” she said. That philosophy became the foundation for Coasis. Something Different While Tampa has no shortage of dining options, Gergle felt there was room for something different. “I wanted to create a destination,” she said. “Tampa has a lot of great places to eat, but I felt there was room for a concept that combined elevated dining, entertainment, nightlife, and community under one roof.” That vision is what continues to separate Coasis from many traditional restaurants in the area. Guests can come for brunch, dinner, cocktails, live entertainment, special events, or just a great atmosphere. “We focus on the entire experience, not just the food. When people visit Coasis, they’re creating memories,” Gergle says. The restaurant has built its identity around that idea of experience-driven hospitality. Whether guests arrive for brunch with friends or a late-night event, the goal is to create an atmosphere that feels vibrant, exciting, and memorable from start to finish. An Escape From Everyday Life For Gergle, the guest experience begins the moment someone walks through the doors. “I want guests to feel like they’ve escaped from their everyday routine,” she said. “From the moment they walk through the doors, I want them to experience great hospitality, amazing food, good music, and an atmosphere that feels vibrant and welcoming.” That atmosphere is a major part of the restaurant’s appeal. Entering Coasis, tropical flowers cascade from above, neon lights illuminate each corner with a party ambiance, and the latest music sets the vibe. Whether customers are celebrating birthdays, enjoying a date night, attending an event, or simply grabbing brunch, Gergle says the goal remains the same. “I want them to leave feeling like they had an experience, not just a meal,” she said. That focus on experience has helped the restaurant attract customers from far beyond the Tampa Bay area. Main dining area of Coasis sports vibrant lighting that sets the mood. (Photo by Kaylen Ross/ Power Broker News) The Power of Social Media According to Gergle, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have played a major role in Coasis’ growth and visibility. “Social media has been a huge driver of our growth,” she said. “We’ve had guests travel from all over Florida and even other states after seeing our food, brunch experience, and events online.” Videos featuring the restaurant perfectly capture the vibe and have helped Coasis gain attention from online audiences seeking unique dining destinations. “It’s exciting when people tell us they drove hours just to experience what they’ve seen online,” Gergle said. For Gergle, the response confirms the importance of creating content that feels authentic rather than forced. The restaurant’s social media presence has helped turn Coasis into a recognizable brand. Signature Menu Favorites While atmosphere and entertainment are major parts of the Coasis experience, the menu obviously remains at the center of what brings customers back. “Our brunch items are definitely among the favorites, especially our shrimp and grits and our signature French toast creations,” Gergle said. Guests also continue to gravitate toward the restaurant’s seafood offerings. “Everyone loves our oysters, seafood dishes, steak eggrolls, and specialty cocktails,” she said. “I think they stand out because we focus heavily on flavor, presentation, and consistency,” she said. “Not only do we want guests to enjoy their meal, but we want them to talk about it long after they leave.” That combination of presentation and flavor has become part of the restaurant’s identity, especially among social media audiences who often share photos and videos of their dining experience online. Popular menu items from Coasis bring guests back for exceptional dining. (Photo by Kaylen Ross/ Power Broker News) Balancing Upscale Dining and Entertainment One of the unique challenges for Coasis has been balancing a high-end dining atmosphere with the energy of live entertainment and nightlife events. Gergle says achieving that balance requires intentionality in every aspect of the business. From the music selection to the décor and event programming, the restaurant carefully curates the environment to maintain an elevated atmosphere. Coasis regularly hosts events, including karaoke nights, dinner experiences, and Private events. The goal for them is always the same: great hospitality first, entertainment second. Navigating Challenges in the Restaurant Industry Like many restaurant owners, Gergle says operating a hospitality business comes with constant challenges. “Like many restaurant owners, we’ve faced staffing challenges, economic shifts, rising costs, and the constant need to evolve with customer preferences,” she said. “But one thing I’ve learned is that adaptability is everything. Instead of resisting change, we’ve embraced it.” She says listening to customer feedback, as well as making friends with her neighboring businesses, and continuously improving the business, has allowed Coasis to evolve into what it is now. “We’ve listened to our customers, adjusted our programming, invested back into the business, and continued finding creative ways to improve the experience,” she said. “Those challenges have ultimately made us stronger.” That mindset has helped the restaurant continue building momentum in Tampa’s competitive dining scene. Community Support Fuels Growth Since opening, the support from the Tampa community has exceeded expectations. Over time, the restaurant has built relationships with a wide variety of customers throughout the community. “We’ve built relationships with locals, tourists, influencers, and business professionals throughout the community,” Gergle said. “The fact that so many guests continue to return and recommend us to their friends and family means everything to us,” she said. “Their support is the reason we’ve continued to grow.” For her, repeat customers and word-of-mouth recommendations remain some of the biggest signs of success. As Coasis continues to grow, Gergle says the team remains focused on elevating the guest experience even further. Customers can expect expanded programming, new events, menu additions, and continued improvements to the restaurant’s atmosphere. She also hinted at long-term plans to continue growing the Coasis brand into an even larger hospitality presence. Ultimately, Gergle says her vision is for Coasis to become one of Tampa’s premier destinations for dining and entertainment. 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.

Left to Right: Kayla Mond, Linda McFadden, Gabrielle Ardoin, and Ms. Ardoin The Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship recipient, Gabrielle Ardoin, stands with her mother and McFadden’s sister, Linda and great-niece, Kayla. (Photo by Isis Climes/ Power Broker News) Priscilla Rose McFadden was a luminary figure in the Pinellas County community. The Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship is an extension of her grace. McFadden was a lifetime resident of St. Petersburg, Florida; born in 1953 and raised in a spiritual household, McFadden was no stranger to extending compassion to all she encountered. Her lifework extended to several nonprofit organizations, including Pinellas Opportunity Council, Operation PAR, Eckerd Community Alternatives, Juvenile Welfare Board, YMCA, St. Petersburg Free Clinic, and Evara Health, where she served on the Board of Directors. Priscilla retired from the Juvenile Welfare Board, yet she continued to work with the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg/Reads! Program over the years.Her passion to be there for others never ended, and she volunteered throughout the years until her passing in late October 2025; McFadden served her community with unyielding charity. McFadden held education in high regard and spent countless hours shaping the fundamental building blocks for children, hoping they’d pursue higher education. The Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship began shortly after her passing and honors her legacy by providing scholarships to support an incoming college student studying early education at a college/university. The scholarship supports one local college student for up to four years as they pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education (PreK–5). Recipients are awarded $5,000 per year for up to 4 years, totaling $20,000 throughout their matriculation in higher education. This prestigious scholarship is awarded in partnership through the Woodson Warriors Scholarships Fund to a student who reflects Priscilla’s hallmark qualities: compassion, genuineness, commitment, and heartfelt service to others. “Our goal of $20,000 per student is more than a gift; it’s an investment in the next generation of educators and community leaders, carrying Priscilla’s name and mission forward while ensuring her voice, vision, and impact continue to inspire and uplift our community for generations to come,” said Mond. Applications are currently closed for the 2026 Woodson Warriors Scholarships Fund and, subsequently, the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship. Interested participants can reach out via email to woodsonmuseum@gmail.com or priscillamcfaddenscholarship@gmail.com with questions regarding the application dates for the upcoming scholarship funds. The Advisory Committee of the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship consists of Priscilla’s sister, Linda McFadden; great-niece, Kayla Mond; former co-worker, Dr. Barbara Morrison-Rodriguez; and friend, Delquanda Turner Smith. “We hope this scholarship gives students the freedom to pursue their dreams without the financial burden of student loans. By reducing financial stress, the scholarship will allow students to focus on their education and take advantage of opportunities to foster their skills and positively impact the community,” said Mond. Gabrielle Ardoin was both the first recipient of the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship and a recipient of the Woodson Warriors Scholarship. (Photo by Isis Climes/ Power Broker News) Gabrielle Ardoin carries the honor of being the first recipient of the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship. “We chose Gabrielle Ardoin because of her dedication to making a positive impact on the community through education, while inspiring younger generations and showing them that opportunities that may seem unattainable are within reach,” said Mond. “With their commitment to learning, this student can impact future generations of leaders and advocates within their community,” she added. To donate to the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship, you can visit their site or scan the QR code below. 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.

Rev. J.C. Pritchett II (podium) and several other imams and pastors gathered to endorse St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch’s (third from right) reelection campaign on Monday. Photo by Mark Parker. Mayor Ken Welch’s reelection campaign has received a multidenominational push from a diverse coalition of St. Petersburg clergy who believe he deserves four more years to finish the job. ​In a robust show of solidarity, 14 pastors, imams, and elders representing various faiths formally expressed their support for Welch on Monday. Those who spoke at an endorsement event, held at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, praised the incumbent’s character, focus on inclusivity, and ability to overcome challenges. ​Rev. J.C. Pritchett II, president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, also seized the opportunity to repeatedly criticize a supporter-turned-opponent - former Gov. Charlie Crist. “With friends like these, who needs enemies?” Pritchett said to kick off what were otherwise positive remarks. ​​He was the lone speaker to mention a mayoral challenger. Rev. Louis Murphy, who hosted the event, said he and his colleagues appreciate Welch’s steadfastness, his ability to “move the city forward,” and that they are “standing with him firmly.” ​Dr. Princess Hemingway, pastor of Brister Temple Church of God in Unity, credited Welch’s faith and family devotion. She called the incumbent a role model for St. Petersburg’s youth. ​“We know who he is, what he believes, and our future is bright with him as our mayor,” Hemingway said of Welch. “Policies and procedures are important, but the character of the person who leads our city is more important.” ​Rev. Clarence Williams, senior pastor at Greater Mount Zion AME Church, credited Welch and his administration’s recovery efforts after an unprecedented rash of hurricanes. He said the incumbent deserves a second term during a “defining moment for our community.” ​“I believe it is irresponsible for us to wipe out his four years of work and begin from one,” Williams later added. “I believe that puts the city back where it was.” ​Following the initial presentations, Welch quoted a well-known verse from the Bible: “Faith without works is dead.” He said the clergy standing behind him have been “doing the work in our community for years,” both in and outside of their houses of worship. ​“We have more work to do, and you cannot do it without strong partnerships,” Welch concluded. Mayor Ken Welch (podium) called it an honor to receive support from a diverse group of faith leaders. ​Pritchett noted that many of the faith leaders gathered at the same church in 2022 to support Crist’s most recent and failed gubernatorial campaign. He questioned why Crist, after endorsing Welch in 2021, would return home from Minnesota to challenge the mayor. ​“He’s built his career on the back of Black and brown people supporting him,” Pritchett said of Crist. “So, when we watch how districts are being redrawn around the country, as we watch what the Supreme Court has done with voting rights that affect African Americans, it is very disappointing that an ally, a friend, covets the mayor’s office.” City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, former Fire Chief James Large, Paul Congemi, former Shore Acres Neighborhood Association President Kevin Batdforf, and Maria Scruggs, former president of the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP, are also vying to become St. Petersburg’s next mayor. Pritchett, when asked why he singled out Crist, said it was "disappointing for me to see people like him and Debbie Wasserman Schultz run against their allies and … challenge Black voting power and influence.” Wasserman Schultz has been derided for deciding to run in one of Florida’s last remaining congressional districts with a Black representative. ​Welch’s endorsements, notably, came from more than just fellow Christian clergy members. Imam Abdul Karim Ali noted that the nation and St. Petersburg are home to a diverse tapestry of religious beliefs. ​Ali credited Welch for embracing that diversity, and pledged that “members of the Islamic faith will definitely be supporting our mayor to get elected.” Imam Askia Muhammad described the solidarity by reciting one of the nation's Latin mantras: E pluribus unum, which translates to “out of many, one.” ​“Most of us here have proven track records of working together across lines for decades,” Muhammad continued. He said Welch has “proven his solid, sustainable, steadfast support for all the citizens and segments of St. Petersburg.” ​Additional faith leaders who endorsed Welch on Monday include Rev. Katurah Jenkins-Hall, Rev. Sam Picard, Apostle Clarice Pennington, Elder Ricardo Welch, Rev. John Evans, Elder Samuel Davis, Pastor Elizabeth Siplin, and Abdul-Salaam Hameed. 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.

The Pinellas County Tax Collector’s Innovation and Technology team is seeking a skilled Endpoint Analyst in Clearwater, FL. Offering $68,000–$70,000 annually, this role drives organizational tech improvements by managing MDM platforms, troubleshooting complex hardware/software failures, and supporting critical IT infrastructure. Ideal candidates possess a technical degree or equivalent IT experience, combined with strong problem-solving skills. Enjoy premium benefits, including the Florida Retirement System pension and hybrid flexibility after six months. Click here to apply.

The Pinellas County Tax Collector is seeking an Accounting Specialist for its Clearwater office. Earning $25/hour with a steady Monday–Friday schedule, this full-time role manages complex financial transactions, reconciles bank statements, and ensures regulatory compliance. Ideal candidates possess strong technical accounting skills and a background in finance or business. Pinellas County offers exceptional employee perks, including a robust Florida Retirement System pension, comprehensive health benefits, and 24/7 gym access. Advance your financial career while serving your local community. Click here to apply today.

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a detail-oriented professional to join the Automated Fingerprint Identification Services team. This critical role supports public safety by capturing biometric data, analyzing prints, and collaborating with national law enforcement agencies. Offering a competitive starting pay of $22.72 per hour ($47,258–$68,524 annually), this fast-paced position is perfect for those eager to launch a rewarding career in criminal justice. Applications close on June 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern. Apply on the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office website.

A powerful new mentorship program is launching this July to empower male teens in the Child’s Park neighborhood. Founded by a local leader determined to curb community violence, this initiative provides two selected youth (ages 14–17) from single-parent homes with hands-on construction training. Participants will earn $15 an hour working two days a week, receive their own professional tool sets, and master valuable trade skills like drywall repair and fixture installation. This program offers a direct blueprint for financial independence and mentorship when it is needed most. Parents can submit an application message by June 20.

Rep. Dianne Hart (right) with Najaeh Wise, one of her previous scholarship recipients. Photos: East Tampa Business and Community Alliance. State Rep. Dianne Hart recognizes that not all paths to success require four-year degrees. Her eponymous scholarship uniquely covers trade school costs and prioritizes community service over typical academic requirements. ​Local supporters can help ensure more Tampa Bay students have access to post-secondary education on Thursday at the third-annual Dianne Hart Scholarship kick-off celebration. The free event, presented by the East Tampa Business and Community Development Alliance (ETBCDA) and hosted by La Di Da Gastro Pub, serves as a critical fundraiser for the initiative. ​The scholarship champions students who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional academic awards. Hart, who earned her degree in her 60s, noted that “every kid will not go to college.” ​“I don’t think we let our children know how much money they could earn in trades,” Hart said. “So my thought was, we should include trade schools for the kids who may not want to go on to a four-year university, but would like to go to trade school and be able to earn a good living.” ​Hart was a longtime businesswoman before entering politics. The community advocate also began volunteering with the ETBCDA in 1994 and is now the nonprofit’s chief executive. ​ETBCDA’s board created the scholarship in Hart’s honor without her knowledge. “They knew how important education is to me,” she said. ​“Once they told me about it, then, of course, I sat down with them to talk about what I thought the eligibility requirements should be,” Hart explained. “My thing was, every kid will not go to college. Let’s support trade schools.” ​Her children attended Tampa Bay Technical High School, which offers over 19 career-focused programs. ETBCDA provides affordable housing, and Hart said there are never enough skilled brick layers, roofers, plumbers, and electricians. ​“So of course, trades are critically important to me,” she added. “And I see them dying every day.” Rep. Dianne Hart (center) with Malachi Bradbury’s parents. Bradbury, like many scholarship recipients, was away at college and could not attend an annual fundraising gala in November. ​ETBCDA hopes to award $1,000 scholarships to at least 10 students this year. Awardees can also use the funding to attend colleges or universities. ​The scholarships are open to students with a 2.5 GPA. Most post-secondary financial awards require significantly higher grade-point averages. ​Hart said she prioritizes accessibility. Students with exceptional grades “never really have a problem getting scholarships.” ​In addition, disadvantaged youth often struggle academically due to “so many other things going on in their lives,” Hart said. For example, a lack of stable housing can make it hard to concentrate on school. ​Applicants must also submit 500-word essays on an annual theme and two letters of recommendation. Completing 100 community service hours is a key component of the program. ​Many students might not have a 3.0 GPA or better, Hart said, but they do “have a heart to give back.” They can fulfill their community service requirement by participating in ETBCDA’s food drives. ​Hart explained that interacting with people facing even more difficult circumstances than their own positively impacts disadvantaged youth. “Once they see that, they really like helping people,” she said. ​“It stays with them, because we still have some of those same kids who come home in the summer from college, and some who are grown, who still come back and help us,” Hart continued. ​Applications are now open to students throughout Tampa Bay and Florida. The deadline to apply is Sept. 30, and ETBCDA will announce recipients in October. ​Hart hopes that community supporters with a “love for education” will also offer personal scholarships to students. She said $500 could help cover the cost of books or other supplies. ​“The more money we have, of course, the more scholarships we’re able to give out,” Hart said of the tax-deductible donations. “We do accept money year-round.” ​The kick-off event is at 6 p.m. on Thursday at 6719 N. Nebraska Ave. in Tampa. For more information, visit the website here. ​To apply for the Dianne Hart Scholarship Award, visit the website here. 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.

Bay Area Legal Services is offerin a free life planning clinic. Secure your future and protect your loved ones at the upcoming Free Life Planning Clinic on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Enoch D. Davis Center. Sponsored by Bay Area Legal Services, this community event pairs you with pro bono attorneys for free, one-on-one assistance with essential legal documents. Whether you need a Power of Attorney, healthcare proxy forms, or guardian designations for minor children, you will leave with the clarity and peace of mind you deserve. Click here to register for the event.

The City of South Pasadena is looking to hire an Accounting Specialist. The City of South Pasadena, FL, is hiring a full-time Accounting Specialist to manage vital financial operations, including payroll, cash receipts, and accounts payable. Working 35 hours per week under the Finance Director, you will maintain meticulous financial records while enjoying an exceptional benefits package that includes a pension, free employee health insurance, and generous leave. The position offers a competitive salary range of $55,510–$83,283, depending on your experience. Click here to download the application.

United Way Suncoast is looking to hire a manager for community development. United Way Suncoast is hiring a Manager, Community Development in Tampa, FL, to lead financial security and impact efforts in Sulphur Springs. If you have over four years of experience and a passion for community growth, this is your chance to manage strategic initiatives, build vital partnerships, and connect residents with life-changing resources. Enjoy a collaborative team culture alongside competitive benefits, including fully covered medical options and generous PTO. Click here to apply today.

Scholarship recipients of 2025’s College Fund of Pinellas County at the annual Christmas Party. Image Courtesy of Board Member Heaven Taylor-Wynn. The College Fund of Pinellas County celebrates 60 years of service as a student financial support pillar to the Pinellas County community. The non-profit has awarded nearly 1,000 scholars over $1.7 million in grant dollars toward their collegiate education throughout its 60-year run, and its upcoming deadline to apply for the 2026 cycle is next Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM (EST). The College Fund is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization run entirely by volunteers since its inception in 1965. Founder Phyllis Busansky tutored African American students at segregated Pinellas High School a year before it was founded. Through her efforts and shared vision, several citizens volunteered their time with Busansky to tutor students and request funding to supplement scholarships for educational purposes. “We raise money in order to help financially disadvantaged Pinellas County residents who have excellent scholastic potential, but insufficient funds to obtain a bachelor’s degree and thereby improve themselves, their family’s living standard, and their role in the community,” said board member Dave Rogers. Board members Heaven Taylor-Wynn (left), Dave Rogers (middle), and David Barclay (right) at a 2025 FASFA Event. Image Courtesy of Board Member Heaven Taylor-Wynn. Rogers is a past recipient of the College Fund scholarship from 2016 through 2019, and joined the board of directors in January 2020. Applicants may be new high school grads, individuals who dropped out and are re-starting college, or adults who are first-time college students. Students receive the grants throughout their college education or until graduation (whichever comes first), rather than a one-time distribution. The checks are written to the students to help meet expenses rather than going directly to the college or university. Students may reapply if they regain eligibility. The non-profit organization has continued to provide multi-year scholarships of $1,200 per year, up to 4 years, to college students from Pinellas County. The number of recipients varies each year; in 2025, the organization awarded 29 scholarships to Pinellas County students. Currently, the scholarship is supporting 72 students. A small group of the Board of Directors (15 currently, with 2 new prospects) comprises the volunteer-based organization. The Board not only covers the administrative costs but also provides an informal mentoring program for students. Board President Sandra Campbell hopes the scholarships will support students in heavy financial circumstances, such as homelessness and/or poverty, while simultaneously providing new opportunities to “enhance their chances of lifelong success. “The gap we attempt to address is continuing support of Pinellas County students seeking a college education who are substantially financially challenged via college scholarships and mentoring,” said Campbell. Board President Sandra Campbell (left) and Dave Rogers (right) at St. Petersburg College Midtown Campus. Image Courtesy of Board Member Heaven Taylor-Wynn. Last year’s applications showed 64.8% were female and 35.2% were male. The top three schools represented for 2025's applicants were as follows: Boca Ciega High School — 13.95% Gibbs High School — 13.95% Lakewood High School — 9.30%. Campbell shared that through the financial support of the scholarship, she hopes to see students experience less poverty, homelessness, hunger, and, “not to mention better health and increased family stability” in their future. This year, the College Fund has set even higher goals to grow its scholarship pot. The fundraising goal sits at $250,000 (more than twice any previous budget) and, if achieved, would increase the number of education-based grant recipients throughout the county. Applications for the scholarship are open until next Friday, June 12, 2026, 11:59 PM EST. 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. Scholarship recipients of 2025’s College Fund of Pinellas County. Image Courtesy of Board Member Heaven Taylor-Wynn.

Tampa-native Gabriel Santos, founder of Engrained Lifestyle Apparel, has secured his first storefront in one of the city’s most popular locations after just two years of operation. Photo: Gabriel Santos. What started as a side hustle at local markets has led to a prime brick-and-mortar location, as Engrained Lifestyle Apparel is now bringing its high-quality, Tampa-inspired streetwear to Sparkman Wharf. ​Sparkman Wharf is a premier waterfront destination within Water Street Tampa, a prestigious urban district spanning 16 downtown blocks. Gabriel Santos, founder of Engrained, never imagined he would open a storefront so quickly, or in such an ideal area. ​Santos, a Tampa native, launched Engrained in 2024 while working as a physical therapy assistant (PTA). He began focusing on the business full-time in October 2025 and is now proving that hustle and community connections can foster rapid success. ​“I always said that I’m not going to just open a storefront on the corner,” Santos said. “And I feel like Sparkman Wharf - it just checks all the boxes.” ​Engrained’s meteoric rise is more impressive considering his journey. Santos, 36, graduated from the University of South Florida but “didn’t really know what I wanted to do.” ​He subsequently returned to school to become a PTA, which paid the bills. Santos has a wife and a young daughter. ​While he always had an “artistic side” growing up, Santos was more focused on playing baseball. After seven years as a PTA, he decided to unlock his long-overlooked creativity. ​Santos then began researching the most efficient way to scale a business. “It’s so scary in the beginning,” Santos admitted. “You never know if it’s going to work.” Engrained Lifestyle Apparel currently offers shirts, jerseys, hoodies, and hats. Image: Screengrab. ​Engrained launched as an online store in May 2024. Santos began working part-time as a PTA, but was eventually laid off last October. ​However, the burgeoning entrepreneur “wasn’t really upset.” Instead, he took the life-altering change as a sign to “really jump in with two feet. And here we are.” ​Well, not quite. Santos needed an avenue to market his brand and build a following. He realized he could achieve both - and gather customer feedback - at local markets. ​“That first year, I was basically doing anything I could get accepted into, trying to gauge which ones were a good fit,” Santos explained. “I kind of narrowed it down to a few I did really well at, and I’ve been doing those markets pretty consistently.” ​The niche brand was a hit, as Santos sought to offer Tampa-focused apparel not found at big-box retailers. He described Engrained’s offerings as a cross between athletic and streetwear, with a modern twist. ​Santos also noted that Engrained clothing is made with high-quality, heavyweight material that won’t degrade after years of washing. His overarching goal was to not only provide apparel that embodies Tampa culture, “but kind of elevate it to a point where it was also nicer and just different from what was out there already.” ​Pop-up shop invitations arose following Engrained’s success at markets, including one at Sparkman Wharf. That led to an opportunity for a permanent storefront inside one of the complex’s popular repurposed shipping containers. Sparkman Wharf sits within Water Street Tampa. Photo: Strategic Property Partners. ​Adorned with colorful murals from local artists and home to several restaurants and shops, the repurposed shipping containers have helped Strategic Property Partners (SPP), which owns and operates the surrounding Water Street district, revitalize what was formerly Channelside Bay Plaza. ​Carly Ciccati, marketing manager for SPP, said in a prepared statement that Sparkman Wharf “has always been about creating experiences that feel authentic to Tampa.” She believes Engrained, a “uniquely local” brand, will offer residents and visitors a way to connect with the city “on a more personal level.” ​“The brand reflects the energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that make Sparkman Wharf such a unique destination,” Ciccati said. ​Santos said it feels “incredibly meaningful” to open his first brick-and-mortar location in the “heart of the city that shaped our brand from the very beginning.” He and his wife will, for now, operate the storefront when it opens later this month. ​Santos offered some advice for other up-and-coming entrepreneurs: Work hard, embrace the grind, and don’t “get caught up in the social media hype” or “compare yourself to other brands,” he said. ​“The second thing is, once you’re onto something, you need to get out there,” Santos continued. “The markets, for me, were the most important part of all of this. Without the markets, exposure, and local support, it would not be a brand.” Engrained Lifestyle Apparel also offers women’s tops and bottoms. Image: Screengrab. ​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.

From left: Andrea Falvey, economic development manager; Mayor Ken Welch; Tracey Smith, manager of the St. Petersburg Greenhouse; City Council Chair Lisset Hanewicz; and City Development Administrator James Corbett at the 2026 State of the Economy. Smith received the Economic Impact Award. All images: City of St. Petersburg. Typical data points - like a record $1.4 billion in construction value and an 18% spike in median household income - highlight St. Petersburg’s recent successes, despite ongoing economic headwinds. ​However, the narrative seemed to shift away from traditional metrics at the 2026 State of the Economy. Much of the event, held on Wednesday at the Mahaffey Theater, instead focused on the city’s human capital. ​Perhaps the most compelling moment came not from the data slides but from the personal testimony of Pat Mack, CEO of data analytics firm PVM. His story highlighted that St. Petersburg’s true economic engine is the "sum of the bets that it makes on its own people.” ​Mayor Ken Welch kicked off the event by stating that the city, while facing nationwide economic challenges, remains focused on promoting inclusive growth. He listed the city’s recent accolades but noted that “we are not satisfied.” ​“We always want to get better, to achieve more,” Welch said. “We continue to focus on the work that drives progress, ensuring every resident in every neighborhood feels this momentum and has the opportunity for a great quality of life.” ​City Council Chair Lisset Hanewicz told attendees that while economic statistics matter, “they do not tell the whole story.” Instead, she said stakeholders should ask, “What makes our economy work?” ​The answer is small business owners, anchor institutions, neighborhood associations, business districts, and families that see a future in St. Petersburg, Hanewicz said. “An economy works when people believe a place is worth investing in with their time, their talent, their savings.” ​“Local government cannot control interest rates, insurance costs, global supply chains, inflation, or the weather,” Hanewicz added. “But we do shape conditions that help determine whether people and businesses can succeed despite those challenges.” City Council Chair Lisset Hanewicz (right) and several colleagues watch the presentations. ​St. Petersburg’s new Legacy Business Program, which showcases establishments that have contributed to the city for over 20 years, proves that economic success is not defined by “what is new or high-profile,” Hanewicz said. Investments in initiatives like St. Pete Works: EDGE ensure that underserved residents can access in-demand skills and training. ​The new three-year, $6 million workforce development initiative is led by St. Petersburg College. Program partners, including the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Career Source Tampa Bay, and the Pinellas County Urban League, plan to connect hundreds of South St. Petersburg Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) residents with opportunities in target industries. ​While the soul of St. Petersburg’s economy took center stage, the statistics remain formidable. The city’s taxable value has more than doubled - from $15 billion to $36 billion - over the last decade, reflecting an unprecedented growth trajectory. A graphic highlighting the city’s taxable value growth. ​South St. Pete has also benefited from the city’s growth, as taxable values within the CRA soared from $1.1 billion to $2.5 billion since 2020. The city can only reinvest that revenue, which will continue increasing as several new projects are completed, into the surrounding area. ​Building officials issued over 54,000 permits, representing a record $1.4 billion in construction value in 2025. “Some of the increase in permit volume can be attributed to the large number issued to homeowners and businesses who experienced damage during Hurricanes Helene and Milton,” said Andrea Falvey, economic development manager. ​Employment in St. Petersburg has increased by over 10.9% since 2020. However, officials did not provide year-over-year data, as they did during the 2025 event. ​The city’s unemployment rate was 3.6% in 2025, below the national average of 4.3%. Median household income rose 18.5% over the last five years, and 58.6% over the past decade. ​Although affordability remains a concern for many residents, City Development Administrator James Corbett noted that Tampa Bay’s cost of living index is “very much in line with or favorable compared to other metro areas,” including Miami, New Orleans, and Nashville. ​Public funding helped create 457 new affordable housing units last year, with 66% serving residents earning up to 80% of the area median income (AMI). The remaining 34% were capped at 120% of the AMI - $96,360 for one person. ​Corbett noted that St. Petersburg’s population has increased by 3% since 2020. However, it may have plateaued at approximately 266,000 residents, roughly the same total as in 2023 and 2024. Pat Mack, founder of data analytics firm PVM, explained why he chose to return to St Petersburg and grow his business from the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub. ​Mack, who grew up in South St. Pete before a decorated, two-decade career in the U.S. Navy, brought the event to a close by emphasizing the importance of investing in people. He founded PVM in 2011 while living in San Diego, and could have built the company “anywhere in this country.” ​“I chose here, the place that built me,” Mack continued. “When a city bets on a kid, when it bets on someone the world was ready to overlook and decides that the person has potential, the bet comes home. The bet forms the roots for the State of the Economy. ​“The next chapter doesn’t belong to me - it belongs to that kid. And the only job, literally the only job any of us in this room really have, is to keep the door open. So when that kid is ready to walk through it, they can.” To view the presentation slides, visit the website here. 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 MORE PHOTOS Mayor Ken Welch and others stressed the importance of increasing investments in resilient infrastructure.

This episode is my 5 key takeaways from the What’s Really Stressing Tampa Bay discussion with Zaneta Ellison-McGraw and Dr. Emmanuela Pierre-Charles. Mental Health Stress in Tampa Bay is Being Driven by Real Life Pressures People Often Ignore Warning Signs Until Their Overwhelmed Isolation and Loneliness Are Major Mental Health Concerns Social Media Can Negatively Affect Self-Worth and Emotional Health It’s Okay to Ask for Help and Normalize Health Conversations Click here to Watch Full Episode.

Family Fun Day BBQ August 2019 by sanderlincenter The James B. Sanderlin Neighborhood Family Center is seeking a mission-driven Staff Accountant to champion its community-focused mission. In this role, you will drive financial health by managing payroll, reconciliations, and the general ledger. If you hold a BA in Accounting and QuickBooks expertise, step into a rewarding career that directly empowers local families. Email your resume and cover letter to social@sanderlinfamilycenter.org to apply by COB Thursday, June 4. Click here to learn more about this position and the James B. Sanderlin Neighborhood Family Center.

Brian Flores, now the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, sued the NFL over discriminatory personnel practices after he was fired from the Miami Dolphins in 2022. Photo: NFL.com. Thanks to a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling, the NFL can no longer shield its controversial Rooney Rule - created to increase diversity in key positions - from public scrutiny. ​The groundbreaking saga began in January 2022 after Brian Flores was fired as head coach of the Miami Dolphins after back-to-back winning seasons. The team has not accomplished that feat since. ​Flores, now the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, interviewed for but didn’t receive another head coaching job. A misdirected text message subsequently led the top candidate to file a racial discrimination lawsuit against the NFL. ​The league adopted the Rooney Rule in 2003 to ensure that “promising candidates have the opportunity to prove they have the necessary skills and qualifications to excel.” It requires all 32 teams to interview two external minority or female candidates for general manager or head coaching vacancies. ​In late-January 2022, then-New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick texted Flores to congratulate him on landing the top spot with the New York Giants. Flores, who is Black, replied that he had yet to interview. ​Belichick subsequently admitted that he meant to text Brian Daboll, who is white and ultimately landed the Giants job. Flores then realized that the team had scheduled an extremely qualified Black candidate for an interview despite already deciding to hire someone else - a clear violation of the Rooney Rule’s intent. ​"It was a range of emotions. Humiliation, disbelief, anger," Flores told CBS Mornings at the time. "I've worked so hard to get to where I am in football, to become a head coach, for 18 years in the league. To go on what was gonna be or what felt like or what was a sham interview, I was hurt." ​Flores filed a class-action lawsuit accusing the NFL of systemic racism in its hiring, promotion, and termination practices while still under consideration for multiple head coaching jobs. He has remained an assistant ever since, and believes his lack of opportunities is retaliation for the ongoing litigation. ​"The Rooney Rule is intended to give minorities an opportunity to sit down in front of ownership, but I think what it's turned into is an instance where guys are just checking the box," Flores said in 2022. "I've been on some interviews in the past where I've had that feeling. I know I'm not alone in that." ​Pulling back the veil ​The NFL’s internal arbitration process, codified in its constitution, has historically shielded the league and its owners from public scrutiny by keeping damaging evidence and business practices confidential. David Gottlieb, an attorney for Flores, called the process "secretive and obviously bogus" in a statement to ESPN. ​In 2025, an appeals court ruled that Flores’ lawsuit could proceed, increasing the likelihood that the NFL’s internal documents and communications will become public. The league appealed that ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, but justices declined to hear the case. ​Flores has also alleged that Dolphins owner Steven Ross offered to pay him $100,000 for every loss during the coach's first season because he wanted to increase the team’s chances of receiving the top pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Additional allegations against Miami have surfaced as Flores has amended his lawsuit. ​He is now accusing the Dolphins of failing to make scheduled severance payments after he was fired and attempting to make him repay money he earned as head coach from 2019 to 2021. According to an amended complaint filed in late May, 25 NFL teams have been served subpoenas, along with more than 1,000 discovery requests, as Flores’ attorneys attempt to obtain leaguewide hiring records and communications related to discrimination claims. The Miami Dolphins are among 25 teams that have been served with subpoenas and discovery requests. Photo: Miami Dolphins. ​Some experts believe the NFL will now attempt to settle out of court rather than unveil potentially damning documentation. “Regardless of the forum, we are fully prepared to defend ourselves as this matter proceeds,” said a league spokesperson. ​Attorneys for Flores have signaled their desire for judiciously mandated systemic change instead of a hefty, closed-door payout. “We are pleased that the Supreme Court declined to accept the NFL’s appeal,” his legal team said in a statement. ​“The NFL must now accept that its commissioner cannot be the arbitrator over discrimination claims against the league and its teams. We look forward to litigating these claims in court.” ​Florida subpoenas the NFL ​Florida Attorney General James Uthmeir, albeit for wildly different reasons, also has a problem with the Rooney Rule. In March, he demanded that the NFL abolish the initiative or potentially face “civil rights enforcement action.” ​Uthmeier said the Rooney Rule “brazenly” violates Florida law as the state continues banning policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). “People with race and sex characteristics that the NFL doesn’t like are deprived of employment and training opportunities available to people with race and sex characteristics that the NFL likes,” he wrote in a letter to league Commissioner Roger Goodell. ​The letter, also sent to the owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Miami Dolphins, gave the league until May 1 to confirm it will no longer enforce the Rooney Rule and other DEI initiatives. Goodell subsequently defended the initiative, which he said is “not a hiring mandate.” ​However, the league’s website previously stated that the Rooney Rule promotes “diverse leadership among NFL clubs” and aims to “increase the number of minorities hired in head coach, general manager and executive positions.” That was updated to say the policy “establishes best practices designed to expand opportunity and strengthen the NFL’s talent pipeline” by May 1. ​On May 13, Uthmeier subpoenaed NFL officials, who must now appear in his office on June 12. He said the revisions did not go far enough. ​“We appreciate how quickly the NFL changed its website in response to our letter and capitulated on some of their discriminatory hiring quotas,” Uthmeier said in a social media post. “But their response raises more questions about the Rooney Rule, and we look forward to their cooperation with the investigative subpoena we issued them today.” ​Just three NFL teams - the Buccaneers, New York Jets, and Houston Texans - employ Black head coaches (9.4%). That demographic accounts for 53.5% of all players. ​“One thing that doesn’t change is our values, and we believe that diversity has been a benefit to the National Football League,” Goodell said in response to Uthmeier’s initial letter. 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.

The Greenhouse in downtown St. Petersburg, FL, will host an exclusive workshop designed to help local nonprofits secure vital capital and fast-track their funding. Local nonprofits can now fast-track funding with the complimentary SEED Raise Funds Fast Cohort Program on June 5 at the St. Pete Greenhouse. This exclusive half-day workshop equips ten organizations with a proprietary strategy and a 90-day action plan to master donor engagement. Learn to build a powerful case for support, target corporate donors, and confidently "make the ask" using frameworks that historically 10x results. Sponsored by The Fox Foundation, spots are strictly limited. Click here to apply or email admin@therootagency.com. For more information visit https://stpetegreenhouse.com/seed-program/

BayCare St. Josephs Hospital BayCare Medical Group is hosting an exclusive hiring event in Tampa on Thursday, June 11, 2026, with sessions starting at 7:30 AM and 1:00 PM. Meet face-to-face with hiring managers and recruiters who are eager to fill open Medical Assistant and LPN roles. Bring your resume and take the next step toward a rewarding healthcare career with a top-tier medical team. Click here to register for the event.

Students at Pepin Academies and dozens of other Tampa Bay schools are using a kid-friendly artificial intelligence platform that uses dogs as mascots for personalized assistance. All photos: Scholar Education. While classrooms across the nation are slamming the door on artificial intelligence, dozens of Tampa Bay schools are rolling out the red carpet for a specialized breed of the cutting-edge tech. ​A new end-of-school-year report highlights how AI is beginning to reshape classrooms across the region. However, students in 29 schools aren’t asking ChatGPT for answers - they’re using Tampa-based Scholar Education’s innovative platform, which uses dogs as mascots, for one-on-one support. ​The rapidly expanding educational technology startup created BaxterBot to provide real-time, personalized support tailored to each student’s unique learning profile. PAWfessor Bruce helps teachers create standards-aligned lessons in minutes and assists with several other daily tasks. ​Together, the virtual assistants, modeled after actual Bernedoodle dogs who often visit classrooms, are having a profound impact on area schools. According to Scholar Education, students with questions reached out to BaxterBot 241,879 times in the 2025-26 academic year rather than waiting for a teacher. ​“It does help, and I get excited about it because they seem excited about it,” said Amy McBride, a teacher at Pepin Academies. “Sitting down and doing a worksheet is different when they’re so computer-driven now. It’s who the generation is - it’s all computer-driven and AI-driven.” Over 18,000 students in Tampa Bay use Scholar Education’s platform, and the company plans to continue expanding. ​Scholar Education’s AI tools began entering Tampa Bay classrooms in the 2023-24 school year. The startup has since expanded exponentially. ​BaxterBot and PAWfessor Bruce are now in 24 traditional public and charter schools throughout Pasco County. Pepin Academies, which operates tuition-free, special education-focused campuses in Tampa, Riverview, and New Port Richey, also utilizes the technology. ​BaxterBot serves as a private tutor by explaining concepts and answering questions throughout the day. The platform can translate 179 languages, provide adaptive responses based on reading levels, and includes safeguards and guardrails to deliver personalized support responsibly. ​Teachers use PAWfessor Bruce to assist with grading, lesson planning, and administrative tasks, which allows them to spend more time with students. The platform also tracks performance, engagement, and growth in real time across classes, subjects, and school years. ​“ChatGPT gives you the answers out front,” said Roman Geiger, an 11th-grade student at Pepin Academies. “But I think BaxterBot doesn’t really tell you everything; it helps you learn. It doesn’t just give you the answers right away.” ​The technology’s greatest impact was felt in special education settings. Many families seeking associated accommodations face wait times of 12 to 18 months, and about 25% of students who need specialized support never receive it, according to the report. ​Scholar Education’s tools helped immediately deliver 40,000 special education accommodations with AI during the 2025-26 school year. That represents a 29-fold year-over-year increase. ​By the end of the academic year, Scholar Education’s AI tools in Tampa Bay: ​Helped provide 18,235 students access to AI-powered tutoring support Saved teachers over 5,150 hours of administrative work Saved families an estimated $200,000 to $385,000 when compared to traditional private tutoring services Reached 1,400 teachers across partner schools in Pasco and Hillsborough Counties In the next school year, Scholar Education plans to expand into Pinellas County, reach over 5,000 teachers, and support more than 50,000 students. The startup will also launch Scholar Health, a new initiative that provides Tampa Bay families with faster and more affordable access to special education evaluations and support plans. ​The company noted that predictions in the educational technology industry “all point in the same direction: AI is moving from a classroom novelty to core infrastructure.” Nicole Roberts, customer success manager, wrote that the “tools that last will be the ones that amplify teachers instead of trying to replace them.” ​“That is the lane Scholar has been in from the start,” she added. “We did not point a general-purpose AI at a classroom and hope.” Company representatives frequently bring two Bernadoodle mascots to classrooms. 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.

Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled a long-discussed property tax reform plan on May 27. Florida lawmakers have approved the proposal, much to the dismay of many city officials. Image: Screengrab. ​Florida lawmakers, in a whirlwind 24-hour special session, approved the governor’s sweeping proposal to overhaul the state’s property tax system on Tuesday. ​Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled his phased approach to eliminating property taxes for 92% of Floridians on May 27. Less than a week later, legislators voted along party lines to send a required constitutional amendment to ballots in November. ​At least 60% of voters must still approve of the changes. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor have warned residents that the proposal would have drastic effects on the region’s two largest cities. ​Welch, in a social media post on Monday, explained how the governor’s plan could have “serious consequences for St. Petersburg and communities across Florida.” His videotaped message to constituents coincided with the start of a special legislative session that has since ended with little debate. ​“This proposal doesn’t eliminate the cost of government, it simply shifts the burden elsewhere or reduces critical local services,” Welch said. “The people of St. Petersburg have consistently told us that they value public safety, housing, youth opportunities, arts and culture, and support for those in need.” ​If approved by voters, the constitutional amendment will increase the homestead exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027, which would wipe out property taxes for about 60% of property owners. St. Petersburg stands to lose about $75 million in annual funding, city officials said on Thursday. ​DeSantis also wants to eventually increase the exemption to $500,000, eliminating property taxes for 92% of permanent residents. The term-limited governor said he would leave that timing up to state legislators. ​His proposal passed 30-9 in the Senate and 75-26 in the House, despite lawmakers having no time to analyze its effects on local governments. They did, however, include a provision that exempts school district levies. ​“This is the hardest vote I’ve had to take because there are so many things that we still don’t know,” said Sen. Corey Simon. “But we’re gonna give the voters a chance to at least opine before we destroy their opportunity to at least speak on it.” ​Castor, following the governor’s announcement, told the media that “everything could be at risk if there are dramatic changes to property taxes.” That revenue accounts for approximately 70% of Tampa’s general fund, and still doesn’t cover public safety costs. ​Castor said politicians often want to “check a box” to highlight that they lowered taxes without considering the negative impact on constituents. She also noted that Florida already caps property tax increases at 3% and lacks a state income tax. ​At a subsequent event, Castor urged residents to consider the plan’s consequences before voting on the constitutional amendment in November. "They see 'tax cut,' and of course, everybody wants that," she said. ​"But think about the services that you're going to lose." ​DeSantis said his proposal would limit the use of property taxes to core services, including public safety and infrastructure. Welch noted that the cuts would still affect “police and fire protection, emergency response, neighborhood improvements, parks, roads, and other programs that strengthen our community.” ​“For St. Pete, the impact would be significant,” Welch added. “Funding for the arts and cultural institutions … could also be at risk. We must protect the local services that make St. Pete a safe, vibrant, and inclusive city.” ​According to the Florida League of Cities, 85 municipalities could not maintain current public safety funding levels under the proposal, even after eliminating all other public services supported by property taxes. In Tampa Bay, those include Gulfport, Largo, Seminole, Temple Terrace, Seminole, New Port Richey, and Tarpon Springs. ​DeSantis had said the state would create a trust fund to support smaller cities disproportionately affected by the loss of property tax revenue; however, lawmakers removed that provision on Monday due to a lack of dedicated funding. ​Following DeSantis’ announcement, mayoral candidate Charlie Crist pledged to reduce St. Petersburg’s millage rate - used to calculate property tax bills - by .40 mills. He said that would save home and business owners roughly $14.8 million annually. ​Welch, in a subsequent prepared statement, said his opponent is “treating property taxes like a cable bill you can just cancel when you feel like it.” He believes the cuts, without a replacement plan, “would leave local governments with impossible choices that ultimately hurt families and communities.” ​Welch’s campaign also highlighted concerns from the local police and fire unions. Jonathan Vazquez, president of the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association, said officers are also “deeply impacted by inflation and the insane cost of living across the greater Tampa Bay region.” ​However, Vazquez noted that “property taxes are how we put food on our tables and take care of our families.” He said drastically reducing or eliminating that funding source “means that local governments will not be able to pay, equip, or train their law enforcement officers and fire personnel appropriately.” ​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.

Men in the Making, a youth-focused nonprofit, during a tour of historic Lincoln Cemetery. Commissioner Renee Flowers believes state-funded upgrades will help attract additional visitors. Photo: Renee Flowers. During segregation, St. Petersburg relocated the remains of Black pioneers to neighboring Gulfport. Lincoln Cemetery has since deteriorated due to decades of deferred maintenance and severe storms. ​However, the century-old cemetery will soon see some much-needed upgrades thanks to Pinellas County Commissioner Renee Flowers and State Sen. Darryl Rouson. Florida’s $114.5 billion budget - approved Friday and now awaiting the governor’s veto pen - includes $300,000 for the historic burial grounds. ​The much-needed infusion of state funding will support dedicated staffing, flood mitigation efforts, signage, technological mapping, headstones for unmarked graves, and security fencing. Flowers, who requested the appropriation, noted that “a lot of things need to happen just to bring some dignity and respect back to that cemetery.” ​“I wanted to make sure that we did right by the cemetery,” Flowers said. “I think this will mean a lot to the community, especially for the times we’re living in with all of the things that are being said and done when it comes to people of color.” Pinellas County Commissioner Renee Flowers requested the funding, subsequently secured by Sen. Darryl Rouson. Photo: Renee Flowers. ​Lincoln Cemetery opened in 1926 at 600 58th St. S. and is now outside of St. Petersburg’s city limits. The interred include Civil War Veterans and other local historical figures. ​Rev. Clarence Williams and St. Petersburg-based Cross and Anvil Human Services took control of the predominantly Black cemetery in 2023 after resolving an ownership dispute with a Gulfport resident. Williams is a pastor at Greater Mount Zion AME Church, where Flowers is a member. ​Flowers noted that the community “never stopped fighting” to retain control of the cemetery. She also credited efforts to maintain the flood-prone property and ensure it is a place where families could visit and learn about African American history. ​“It means a lot to some of our more senior persons in the community who … remember what it was like,” Flowers added. “This is something they get to see in their lifetimes.” ​St. Petersburg relocated Black residents buried at Moffett Cemetery, established in 1888 at the intersection of 16th Street and 5th Avenue South, when officials condemned and built over the site in the late 1920s. The area is now home to a parking lot at Tropicana Field. ​The Black Cemetery Network, citing records from the Pinellas Genealogy Society, states that 236 St. Petersburg residents were reinterred in Gulfport. In December 2025, Williams told the city council that Lincoln Cemetery is home to thousands of unmarked graves. ​Lincoln Cemetery currently lacks fencing. Flowers said anyone can “come in and out of it,” which has led to issues. A full-time maintenance worker will complete regular landscaping work and ensure headstones remain visible. ​The state funding will also pay for ground-penetrating radar to identify graves. “Due to flooding issues there, the ground has moved, which has caused some of the vaults to shift,” Flowers said. ​“There are several graves out there without markers - no headstones,” she continued. “Maybe the family couldn’t afford it, but that’s also in the budget.” A makeshift headstone at Lincoln Cemetery. Photo: Lincoln Cemetery Descendants, Facebook. ​Crews will pave an overgrown access road, and Flowers said the maintenance worker will also lead historical tours. The funding will also allow Cross and Anvil to fill an administrative role. ​Flowers said the overarching goal is to ensure final resting places are respected, and that Lincoln Cemetery is “welcoming and inviting for those who want to visit their loved ones.” ​“It’s been a financial struggle,” she said. “It really has, but we’ve been able to manage it and keep it going. We really appreciate the people who have gone out there when we’ve had cleanup days.” ​Flowers hopes to organize a competition at Gibbs High School to design a new welcome sign. “I think that will be a nice way to have the youth involved in a historical place that is significant to the community,” she said. ​“I think this is going to be a phenomenal shot in the arm when it comes to the history of our community.” ​Officials in St. Petersburg and Gulfport continue to discuss Lincoln Cemetery’s de-annexation. Flowers said the former city has the budget needed for ongoing flood mitigation and maintenance efforts, and while there are indications of a “favorable partnership,” Cross and Anvil’s board must first request the change. ​An extensive process would follow, and state-funded surveying work will help clarify if the entire cemetery sits within Gulfport’s boundaries. Flowers said the appropriation “speaks volumes” about Rouson’s support, and also credited other local and state lawmakers for including the funding in the upcoming budget, “because it’s really important to the community.” ​“With Senator Rouson being term-limited, this is a big thing for him to be able to say that he got that done,” Flowers said. “So, I think it’s phenomenal. He’s been a wonderful partner, and I just really appreciate the work that he’s done on our behalf.” Community members work to beautify Lincoln Cemetery, which is home to Black pioneers from St. Petersburg but located in neighboring Gulfport. Photo: Lincoln Cemetery Descendants, Facebook. 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.

Beginning as a civic organization in 1982, the Improvement League of Plant City, CDC was founded by the late Jerry Bailey to address the needs of the Lincoln and Madison Park communities. Screengrab: Plant City Observer. The Improvement League of Plant City, CDC will host its 2nd Annual Summer Solstice Soiree on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Norman McLeod American Legion Post 26 in Plant City. The annual fundraiser will take on a Derby-inspired theme this year, bringing together style, entertainment and community support in one evening. Guests are invited to wear their best hats, suits and summer evening attire while enjoying live R&B from Tony B & Fahrenheit with Sha Simpson on vocals, along with a professional comedian. The event is also BYOF, encouraging guests to bring their own food and enjoy the evening picnic-style. Improvement League’s 2nd Annual Summer Solstice Soiree will be on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Norman McLeod American Legion Post 26 in Plant City. Proceeds from the event will support the restoration of the historic Bing Rooming House Museum, one of Plant City’s important cultural landmarks connected to the history, contributions, and legacy of the African American community. After sustaining damage during the 2024 hurricane, the museum is undergoing continued restoration efforts to help protect the site and keep its history accessible for future generations. Bing Rooming House Museum experienced severe flooding and damage after Hurricane Milton in October 2024. As of December 1, 2025, the fundraising total toward renovation costs is $325,000.50. Image retrieved from Blooming House website. The work behind the organization traces back more than four decades. Beginning as a civic organization in 1982, the Improvement League of Plant City, CDC was founded by the late Jerry Bailey to address the needs of the Lincoln and Madison Park communities. In 1996, the organization received 501(c)(3) public charitable status, expanding its ability to pursue funding and serve residents across the greater Plant City area. Today, the League continues its work through programs and partnerships focused on education, culture, community development, and historical preservation. Its efforts include but are not limited to the Bing Rooming House African American Museum, the Sadye Martin College Scholarship Fund, free assistance for military veterans, and its role as a community liaison for the Coronet Superfund Site rehabilitation. For Brandi Boyer, a board member and event committee chair with the Improvement League of Plant City, the evening is closely tied to the League’s mission of preservation, education, and community enrichment. “History is one of our greatest teachers. Through the restoration of the Bing House Museum, we are preserving the lessons, stories, and legacy that continue to shape Plant City’s future,” Boyer said. Boyer explained that the organization’s mission centers on preserving the stories connected to the Bing House, honoring the people who helped shape Plant City’s African American community and creating a space where future generations can learn from that history. That same mission is what drives the Summer Solstice Soiree, bringing residents, business leaders, community partners and visitors together for an evening that celebrates Plant City’s past and future while supporting the preservation work tied to the Bing House Museum. Community members interested in attending can purchase tickets in advance for $50 through the link. Tickets will also be available at the door for $60. 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.

Entrepreneurs attending a Q&A workshop and receiving constructive criticism and feedback on their marketing ideas. Photo courtesy of the Minority Business Expo. The countdown has begun for the 2026 Minority Business Expo this weekend at the SpringHill Suites, 511 W Lime St, Lakeland, FL 33815. This year marks the third annual Minority Business Expo — powered by The Well Center for Business & Culture, a hub committed to the empowerment of entrepreneurs who are underserved and underrepresented in the Polk County area. This year's theme, “Mindset & Momentum: Building Together,” is a curated two-day event designed to “uplift, equip, and connect minority entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community leaders.” The Well Center for Business & Culture is located at 114 E Parker St, Lakeland, FL 33801. Photo courtesy of the Minority Business Expo. The weekend workshop has been intentionally designed as a transformative movement, with the goals of purpose, progress, and possibility for all who attend. Here's what to expect from this weekend's line-up: Friday, June 5th - Expo & Information Session: Friday launches with a powerful Expo & Information Session, bringing together vendors, workshops, and organizations dedicated to business growth and development. The evening transitions into a vibrant B2B Networking Mixer at The WELL — where connections are built, collaborations are sparked, and opportunities come to life. Saturday, June 6th - Community Impact Gala: Saturday culminates in an elegant Gala Event, celebrating excellence, honoring achievements, and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders. In addition to the planned events, there will also be a “Quick Pitch Business Competition” hosted on Friday at 6 p.m., located at the Well — 114 E Parker St, Lakeland, FL 33801. Here, entrepreneurs have 5 minutes to pitch their creative models to a panel of judges and, afterward, answer a 3-minute Q&A to demonstrate their expertise and knowledge. With a $25 entry fee, entrepreneurs can gain exposure, receive valuable feedback, and win $500 for their pitch. The Minority Business Expo offers innovators a chance to turn their ideas into reality. Don’t miss the opportunity to network and collaborate this Friday through Saturday. 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.

From left: Sarah Joubert, Anddrikk Frazier, Amber Brinkley, and Will Conroy of Foundation Vision Partners fielded questions regarding their plan for the Historic Gas Plant District from St. Petersburg stakeholders on Thursday. Photos by Mark Parker. After decades of unfulfilled promises and three failed all-or-nothing deals, a development team continues highlighting the benefits of a community-led blueprint to reimagine the culturally significant Historic Gas Plant District. ​Foundation Vision Partners (FVP), one of the finalists vying to redevelop the 86-acre site, currently home to Tropicana Field, sought community feedback for a unique proposal on Wednesday. Anddrikk Frazier, founder of Best Source Consulting, told attendees that all stakeholders are “invited to the cookout” under his group’s master planning and infrastructure-first approach. ​FVP’s redevelopment plan allows the city, rather than a sole developer, to retain ownership of what was once the largest enclave of Black residents in St. Petersburg. Will Conroy, founder of Backstreets Capital, noted the importance of providing detailed information following hurried presentations at a city-sponsored town hall on April 30. ​“We just felt it was important to offer another chance for the community to ask us questions, because it is new,” Conroy told Power Broker Magazine. “They’ve heard about this other process for 20 years. And because we’re offering something that’s different for the city, we wanted to allow community members the chance to ask follow-up questions.” Renderings released by Foundation Vision Partners are purely conceptual; stakeholder feedback will ultimately shape a reimagined Historic Gas Plant District. Image: FVP. The team believes its model creates generational flexibility, safeguards the project from economic and political changes, enables widespread participation, and will eventually net the city $510 million in land sales. ​Conroy explained that selling individual development-ready parcels would prevent a "single point of failure" that derailed previous redevelopment attempts. Proactively completing pre-construction work will increase the value, he said, and the city could still incorporate the most desirable aspects of three other shortlisted proposals. ​Frazier used a cooking analogy to illustrate the shift in strategy: Instead of preparing one massive beef tenderloin for his entire family (86 acres), the site should be cut into filets (parcels) so individual stakeholders can decide how to season and cook their steak, he said. ​FVP will form a Community Development Council (CDC) to ensure residents remain the project’s stewards throughout the approximately 25-year project’s duration. Input from the city’s Community Benefits Advisory Council (CBAC) is limited to the negotiation phase. ​Conroy said today’s children will participate in the redevelopment’s future. “And that’s what this project deserves - we don’t need to capture it all in one moment of time. This is a project that can and should be responsive to multiple generations.” ​Here are some excerpts from an extensive question-and-answer session: ​Why should the city hire FVP rather than completing the pre-construction work internally? ​“The city staff is an incredible group of people, but they do not have enough bandwidth to take this on,” said Conroy, whose companies currently have over 100 pending construction permits. He also noted that FVP has the expertise to advise on and oversee the extensive project. ​Conroy’s group includes Gensler, the world's largest architecture, design, and planning firm, and two members of the previous Tampa Bay Rays and Hines development team. “If the city were to do this itself, the intellectual capital they would need to attract, retain, and engage with (other development firms and stakeholders) would be incredibly expensive.” ​How would the team’s CDC interact with the city’s CBAC? ​A project must receive $10 million in public funding or incentives, or assistance exceeding 20% of its total cost, to trigger St. Petersburg’s community benefits process. Neither aspect would immediately apply to FVP’s proposal. ​Frazier said the CDC is in “true control over this process” until the city offers discounted land for affordable housing, museums, or other public amenities. “There is no more important stakeholder in this process than the community - the people who are sitting right here in this room.” Anddrikk Frazier (right), founder of Best Source Consulting, was previously a member of the Tampa Bay Rays and Hines development team. ​Will there be a specific architectural theme? ​Sarah Joubert, who leads Gensler’s Tampa office, said FVP would set design, resilience, and sustainability guidelines for each parcel before a sale to ensure a cohesive district. “We will also be setting the stage for equitable and programmatic uses across the site.” ​However, Conroy emphasized the importance of long-term flexibility. For example, he said in 1995, a master developer likely included a massive mall in their proposal. ​How will FVP ensure diverse participation? ​“From the time that we decided to submit, there was not a stakeholder group that we did not reach out to,” Frazier said. “If there are organizations or entities or socioeconomic groups that feel like they are not a part of the process, please shoot us an email as soon as possible, so we can make sure that you are included in all of our communications and that you do have a seat at the table … but communication works both ways.” ​What will FVP make on the deal? ​In addition to a $70 million upfront investment in infrastructure, the city would make monthly payments of $150,000 to FVP for planning and placemaking advisory services until the end of each development phase. The group would also charge a 3% and 4% construction and development management fee, respectively, based on the project’s “hard costs,” Conroy said. ​“Our development agreement proposal would just be for phase one,” he added. “If we earn the right to phase two, three, and four … fantastic. But if we don’t, and we fall down, the city can uncouple itself from us and select a different developer.” ​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

Democratic Republic of Congo: A health worker monitors the health of a patient at the hospital. Image courtesy of The World Bank / Vincent Tremeau. In May 2026, a new Ebola outbreak was declared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighboring Uganda. On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO), Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared that the outbreak constituted a “public health emergency of international concern.” Soon after, Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the African Centres for Disease Control added 10 additional countries to the at-risk list –Angola, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zambia – due to proximity, travel, and lack of capacity to detect. Large outbreaks are caused by a group of viruses: Ebola virus, Sudan virus, and Bundibugyo virus. However, according to the medical support project Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), or Doctors Without Borders, there are no currently approved vaccines for the Bundibugyo virus that appeared in May in DRC and immediately spread to Uganda. “People are circulating in DRC, and people are also circulating around neighboring countries,” Kasey stated on a recent newscast. “But more importantly, if countries…don't increase the capacity to detect, they are really at risk.” He added that “African citizens are working with countries to deal with this issue. By the end of this year, we'll make sure [there is a] vaccine, but for now, they have just to implement the public health measures. People are listening.” He said that so far the DRC has committed to directing $20 million and Uganda $5 million to combat the disease, and he expects more African nations to come to the table, with South Africa already providing $2.5 million. However, with shrinking aid budgets adding to the crisis, Kaseya called for additional global support in order to make sure African nations have a vaccine, pointing out how research and vaccines for diseases in Western countries are quickly given international support. “Africa was badly treated by Western countries, because if this disease was in the EU, in the US, or in Europe, the medicine and the vaccine would be available.” He called for $319 million in aid to combat the disease in all 10 countries on the at-risk list. According to the Centers for Disease Control, as of May 29, the DRC and Uganda Ministries of Health report the following: DRC: 906 suspected cases 125 confirmed cases 223 suspected deaths 17 confirmed deaths Uganda 7 confirmed cases 1 confirmed death International aid organizations have reported that at least six Americans were exposed to Ebola virus in Congo. The fatality rate of most Ebola infection cases varies is around 50%, with rates varying between 25–90%. Humans contract the virus from animals including fruit bats, porcupines, and nonhuman primates, and transmit it to others through blood, bodily fluids, and contaminated materials and surfaces (clothing, bedding). Distribution of suspected and confirmed cases of Bundibugyo virus disease in Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, as of 21 May 2026. Image courtesy of World Health Organization. Ongoing and escalating violence and fighting between Congolese security forces and Rwanda-backed militant group M23Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) has exacerbated the deadly conditions in which the Ebola outbreak has erupted. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, DRC already has one of the “largest and deadliest humanitarian crises in the world,” with one million Congolese seeking asylum abroad as its population of twenty-one million people live in urgent need of food and medical support. On May 27, Ghebreyesus shared in a post on X, “Eastern DRC now faces a catastrophic collision of disease and conflict with the Ebola outbreak in Ituri province outpacing the response.” Pictured: Bunia, capital of Ituri Province, photo by HokieRNB, screengrab. On May 28, WHO shared a message from Ghebreyesus to the citizens of the DRC, in which he shared, “This is the 17th Ebola outbreak in DRC. Together, you have overcome every single one before. That is not a small thing. That is a testament to the strength and resilience of your communities. I have seen that strength with my own eyes.” To support efforts to battle the deadly Ebola outbreak, visit the following: UN Crisis Relief - https://crisisrelief.un.org/en/donate-drc-crisis Doctors Without Borders - https://msf.org.uk/article/ebola-outbreak-2026-what-msf-doing-and-how-can-i-help International Rescue Committee - https://www.rescue.org/article/conflict-drc-what-you-need-know-about-crisis 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

The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg in South St. Petersburg will host a grant information session on Tuesday, June 23rd (Photo: Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg). Together With Our Community is a rolling deadline opportunity offering grants of up to $2,500 to support community-based and mission-aligned activities, events, or new programming happening in our priority zip codes of 33705, 33711, and 33712. We will review applications and award grants on a monthly basis until funds are exhausted. Click here to register to attend.

Pictured: (l-r) Bishop Dr. Clarice H. Pennington, Thomas “Jet” Jackson, and Lois Grayson. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. In a city rich with history, yet too often absent from the written record, the Woodson African American Museum of Florida ensures that the stories of those who lived it are not lost to time, but lifted, preserved, and passed on. Launched in August 2025, “At the Feet of the Elders” was not only an oral history series; it was a sacred gathering of wisdom, memory, and truth. Moderated by culture and history advocate Heaven Taylor-Wynn, this series was designed to center the voices of residents aged 80 and older. The initiative created space for elders to reflect on life in segregated St. Petersburg, the long road toward integration, and the faith and resilience that sustained their communities. During the seven heavily attended or sold-out sessions, the series reflected a community eager to listen, learn, and honor those who carried history forward. The elders represented generations of leadership across education, military service, ministry, civic engagement, law enforcement, and the arts. Their stories serve not only as reflections of the past but as guideposts for the future. Pictured: The Storyteller by Kathleen Wilson Honoring the Voices of Our Elders Pictured: Moderator Heaven Taylor-Wynn with (l-r) Mozell Reese-Davis, Ruben Mayes and Inez Ford. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. Mozell Reese-Davis – A proud St. Petersburg native, Mrs. Davis devoted 38 years to Pinellas County Schools as an educator and advocate for student success. Her lifelong commitment to civic and spiritual service reflects a legacy of leadership and mentorship. Inez Ford – With more than 75 years of service to her community and to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated as a Diamond Member, Mrs. Ford’s enduring commitment continues to inspire generations. Ruben Mayes – A Hall of Fame educator, championship track and field coach, and longtime deacon at Bethel Metropolitan Baptist Church, Mr. Mayes has mentored generations through both education and faith. Pictured: (l-r) Rev. Theodore “Ted” Lockhart, Delceda Thompson, and Barbara Shorter. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. Rev. Theodore “Ted” Lockhart – A retired United Methodist minister, Air Force veteran, and author, Rev. Lockhart remains a dedicated spiritual leader and steadfast advocate for The Woodson. Barbara Shorter – A history-making educator, Mrs. Shorter became the first African American female high school principal in Pinellas County in a century, leaving a lasting imprint on education and community leadership. Delceda Thompson – An accomplished educator and vocalist, Mrs. Thompson has spent decades shaping young minds while enriching the cultural and spiritual life of the community. Pictured: (l-r) Bishop Dr. Clarice H. Pennington, Thomas “Jet” Jackson, and Lois Grayson. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. Lois Grayson – With 25 years of service at GE/Lockheed and deep roots in faith and family, Mrs. Grayson’s life reflects commitment to both work and community. Thomas “Jet” Jackson – A lifelong public servant, Mr. Jackson dedicated more than 50 years to the City of St. Petersburg. The renaming of the Wildwood Recreation Center in his honor stands as a testament to his lasting impact. Bishop Dr. Clarice H. Pennington – An educator, pastor, and founder of The Christian Generation Center of H.O.P.E. Church, Bishop Pennington’s work bridges faith, education, and community empowerment. Pictured: Moderator Heaven Taylor-Wynn with (l-r) Betty J. Harden, Helen T. Shaw, and Betty Jean Wall Hayward. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. Betty J. Harden – A lifelong leader and mentor, Mrs. Harden has empowered young women through education and service, remaining active in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and the Gibbs High School alumni community. Betty Jean Wall Hayward – A public health professional and devoted member of The Alumni Singers, Mrs. Hayward has shared her musical gifts and community spirit for more than four decades. Helen T. Shaw – A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, Mrs. Shaw’s service spans education, civic engagement, and music, reflecting a life rooted in purpose and community. Pictured: Moderator Councilman Corey Givens, Jr. with (l-r) Rufus “Jabo” Lewis, Thomas Manuel, Jr, and Louis B. Williams. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. In the sixth installment, Councilman Corey Givens, Jr., of District 7, served as moderator, engaging panelists in a thoughtful discussion of their shared experiences. Rufus “Jabo” Lewis – A standout multi-sport athlete and Hall of Fame inductee, Mr. Lewis gained national recognition in golf and was later inducted into both the National Black Golf Hall of Fame and the African American Golfers Hall of Fame. His legacy also includes civil rights advocacy and co-founding organizations that preserve the historic legacy of Gibbs High School. Thomas Manuel, Jr. – A veteran, skilled tradesman, and lifelong golfer, Mr. Manuel served his country during the Vietnam era and later dedicated 28 years to the Pinellas County School System. His life reflects discipline, service, and community connection. Louis B. Williams – A veteran, educator, and public servant, Mr. Williams served in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force and built a career spanning law enforcement, education, and federal service. His lifelong commitment to service reflects a deep investment in community and country. Pictured: (l-r) Teresena Wise Bryant, Ruth D. Johnson, and Gwendolyn “Gwen” Wade. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. Executive Director Terri Lipsey Scott moderated the seventh in a series, guiding panelists through reflections on their early education and the challenges faced through their early work experiences. Ruth D. Johnson – A devoted spiritual leader and mentor, Ms. Johnson serves as a Deaconess, Bible teacher, and licensed minister at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. A longtime NAACP member and retired U.S. Postal Service leader, she has also ministered in the Pinellas County Jail for over 20 years. Her life reflects faith, service, and a commitment to uplifting others. Gwendolyn “Gwen” Wade – A pioneering pharmacist, Mrs. Wade built a career spanning over 50 years, becoming the first African American female Director of Pharmacy in St. Petersburg. A Gibbs High School co-valedictorian and Xavier University graduate, she was honored as a 2026 First Lady in African American History. Her legacy reflects leadership, excellence, and service. Teresena Wise Bryant – A respected civic leader and descendant of the historic Gas Plant community, Ms. Bryant has dedicated her life to education and service. Recognized in Who’s Who Among Black Americans, she has served on numerous boards and remains active in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Her legacy reflects resilience, leadership, and community impact. Pictured: newscaster Saundra Weathers with (l-r) Commissioner Dr. René Flowers, Mayor Kenneth Welch, and Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders. All images courtesy of the Woodson Museum. Black History Month Leadership Series Building upon the powerful foundation of its elders, The Woodson expanded the conversation during Black History Month with a special leadership series featuring local elected officials who stand on the shoulders of those who came before them, while continuing to shape the future of the city. The discussion was moderated by award-winning journalist and newscaster Saundra Weathers, offering insight into leadership, legacy, and the responsibility of public service. Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders – A lifelong resident and Florida A&M University graduate, she made history as the first African American to represent District 5 on the City Council, bringing a legacy of service across corporate, nonprofit, and civic spaces. Commissioner Dr. René Flowers – Raised in St. Petersburg as the youngest of 12, Dr. Flowers has served on the School Board, City Council, and now the Pinellas County Commission as its first African American female member. Her leadership continues to advance equity and opportunity throughout the community. Mayor Kenneth Welch – A son of the historic Gas Plant community, Mayor Welch has dedicated his life to public service. After two decades on the County Commission, he now serves as St. Petersburg’s first African American mayor, offering visionary leadership rooted in lived experience. Executive Director Terri Lipsey Scott explains, ‘At the Feet of the Elders’ continues The Woodson’s mission of preservation, education, and community engagement, ensuring that the voices of those who helped shape St. Petersburg’s history is not only remembered, but deeply honored and revered.” In honoring both elders and emerging leaders, the museum affirms a powerful truth: that history lives not only in archives, but in the voices, experiences, and enduring wisdom of those who walked it and those committed to carrying it forward. 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

From left: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Carlton Mallard, and City Councilmember Naya Young. Mallard was nearly forced to abandon his childhood home, which had fallen into a state of disrepair. Photos: City of Tampa. The walls of Carlton Mallard’s home in East Tampa have held his family’s history for over 70 years. However, the creeping decay of time had finally caught up to the only sanctuary he’s ever known. ​Mallard, who couldn’t afford extensive repairs, went without air conditioning, boiled water to bathe, and cooked with camping equipment. He and his red-brick home now have a new lease on life thanks to the city’s Housing Rehabilitation and Renovation Program. ​Mayor Jane Castor and Councilmember Naya Young, chair of the Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency, celebrated the drastic transformation and progress towards the city’s ambitious affordable housing goals outside of the home on Wednesday afternoon. Mallard, now in his golden years, called the $147,000 renovation project a “blessing.” ​“Housing affordability is not only about building units,” Young said. “It is also about preserving those existing homes and helping residents age in place with dignity.” Before and after photos of the East Tampa home. ​The city’s rehabilitation program offers income-qualified homeowners an interest-free, forgivable loan without payment requirements to cover the cost of repairs. The house Mallard’s father purchased in 1950 and passed down through the decades needed nearly everything but new walls. ​For years, Mallard lived without cold air or hot water. Electrical issues left him without power in 2025. His roof was collapsing. “I resorted to buying solar equipment; that’s how I stayed a little cool,” he said. ​“I grew up here - my family is all around me,” said Mallard, pointing to the surrounding neighborhood. “So, this house means a lot to me.” ​The home, located within the East Tampa Community Redevelopment Area (CRA), received a new roof, hurricane-impact windows and doors, updated electrical systems, a complete plumbing replacement, bathroom renovations, new flooring and cabinets, and environmental cleaning. A city contractor also installed air conditioning and a hot water tank. ​Young noted that the CRA works to revitalize economically distressed communities, eliminate blight, and create opportunities for residents through economic investments. Affordable housing, which creates stronger neighborhoods, fosters safer communities, and opens pathways to financial mobility, is a critical part of that mission, she said. ​“Our goal is to create neighborhoods where growth and opportunity include the people who have always called these communities home,” Young added. “Revitalization should never mean displacement.” ​Castor, upon taking office in 2019, pledged to create 10,000 affordable housing units by 2027. Over 8,300 have been completed or are currently under construction. ​While she admitted that the 10,000-unit benchmark is likely unreachable before her second term ends in May 2027, Castor celebrated the city’s progress. “I believe in setting the bar as high as possible and doing everything that you can to reach that goal,” she said. ​Tampa has added 4,100 affordable units since 2019, and another 4,000 are in various stages of development. Castor listed several new projects in the pipeline, including Rome Yard, West River, and the Army/Navy store redevelopment downtown. ​She also believes that ensuring people like Mallard can remain in their homes contributes to the city’s affordable housing stock. “We come at this from as many angles that are possible and available,” Castor said. ​Young echoed that sentiment. “Today is more than numbers,” she said. “It is about family, stability, and ensuring longtime residents are not left behind as our city grows.” ​Mallard, a self-described man of few words, repeatedly called it a blessing to have a “truly functioning house, where everything works, and the roof is not leaking.” He can now “sleep good at night” and often reflects on his childhood while sitting in a revitalized living room. ​“There’s a lot of things about the house that make me think about my parents,” Mallard said. “This is where I want to be.” City officials dedicated $1.5 million to renovating East Tampa homes over the past year. The program reopens in mid-June, Castor said. 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.

St. Petersburg City Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders is now the interim board chair of Pinellas Continuum of Care after Kathleen Beckman abruptly resigned. Photo: Deborah Figgs-Sanders. St. Petersburg City Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders is embracing the opportunity to steer a wayward ship after a wave of political friction recently rocked the Pinellas Continuum of Care (CoC). ​The CoC is a collaborative network established to coordinate, fund, and manage service delivery for community partners dedicated to ending homelessness in Pinellas County. Kathleen Beckman, who formerly chaired the organization’s extensive governing board, submitted her resignation on April 22. ​Beckman’s abrupt exit came as tensions over board appointments and removals escalated publicly at a county commission meeting. Figgs-Sanders, subsequently named the CoC’s interim leader, is now eager to shift the focus back to providing resources for seniors, veterans, children, and families experiencing homelessness. ​“I had to kind of step in to alleviate some of the political aspects that were causing so much contention with what we are trying to do in our day-to-day,” Figgs-Sanders said. “You have to keep the main thing the main thing - providing those resources for our homeless.” Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders (left) with members of the Pinellas Continuum of Care. Photo: CoC. ​Beckman, a former Clearwater City Council member and mayoral candidate, cited “family needs and health circumstances” in her resignation letter. She expressed gratitude for her five-year tenure with the CoC and called the work “important and inspiring.” ​However, Figgs-Sanders noted that operations became “extremely political.” The friction came to a head in April after Beckman removed Commissioner Vince Nowicki - later reappointed and one of several elected officials on the CoC’s governing board - over alleged excessive absences. County officials then discussed the matter and other administrative concerns at a commission meeting. The drama engulfed the Homeless Leadership Alliance (HLA) of Pinellas, a separate but intertwined entity. ​The HLA, as the CoC’s lead agency, works to prevent, divert, and end homelessness by helping plan, implement, and align a countywide response system. Commissioner Chris Latvala asked if the county could oversee some of the HLA’s services so that U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding “would flow through us.” That would eliminate the need to “deal with political hacks,” he said ​Latvala also suggested pulling approximately $450,000 in annual county funding from the CoC and its nearly 30-person board of elected officials and community stakeholders. County Administrator Barry Burton explained that the coalition administers resources and is “not the direct recipient of funds.” ​Beckman submitted her resignation a day after the commission meeting. ​The potential loss of funding was “not something that we wanted to hear,” Figgs-Sanders said. “There are so many organizations that are trying to do the right thing, they’re trying to do good, they’re holding themselves as transparent as possible, they’re providing a service that is so needed and not fully funded to meet the capacity of our homelessness.” ​Latvala’s comments caused a “panic,” Figgs-Sanders added. Beckman’s resignation offered an opportunity to “reset.” ​Figgs-Sanders hopes her “reputation for transparency, integrity, and accountability” will have a calming effect. She noted that tensions have already eased exponentially. ​The CoC’s board must formally approve her appointment in July. Figgs-Sanders will then lead the organization until at least Dec. 31. ​Her top priority is to help secure additional funding to support the CoC’s mission. That requires empathy and understanding from people who are not personally affected by homelessness. ​“I need you to join and educate yourself on what it really means, number one, to be homeless,” Figgs-Sanders said. “And number two, what it takes to try and eradicate homelessness.” A homeless individual in downtown St. Petersburg. ​She also pledged not to micromanage board members or community partners. “I don’t have to be involved in everything,” Figgs-Sanders continued. “I let people do their jobs, and that’s what HLA is here to do.” ​Homelessness affects everyone, whether through encountering panhandlers in public or the additional strain on health care systems. Figgs-Sanders wants more people to realize the issue isn’t confined to specific neighborhoods or demographics. ​She encourages residents to donate their time or money to trusted organizations that work to end homelessness. They can also help connect nonprofits with philanthropists, Figgs-Sanders said. ​State and federal funding cuts are “scary,” she continued, and many organizations face budgetary uncertainty. “There are a lot of them out there that need our support.” ​“When it comes to homelessness, it’s hard to stabilize anything,” Figgs-Sanders said. “But in regards to the work, in regards to getting it done, we need to refocus on why we’re there.” 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

Passing Strange, featuring the original Broadway cast, with Stew Stewart on mic; filmed by director Spike Lee, released 2009. Screengrab. Erica Sutherlin will direct Passing Strange, winner of 3 Drama Desk awards and the Tony for Best Musical, opening at Studio@620 June 11 and running through June 21. From the rhythmic mind of singer-songwriter and performance artist Stew Stewart comes a rock-musical play following the story of a young bohemian who charts a course for “the real” through sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll. Image source from The Studio 620 Facebook page. This genre-bending musical score will keep audience members entertained and engaged, following the story of “The Youth,” a young Black musician who packs his bags, leaves his middle-class home behind, and heads to Europe on a wild, funny, and chaotic quest for art and absolute authenticity. Passing Strange made its debut 20 years ago at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre in Berkeley, California, on October 19, 2006. Two years later, the play made its Broadway premiere at the Belasco Theatre on February 8, 2008. Four months later in June, the rock musical received 7 nominations at the 62nd Tony Awards and won one for “Best Book Musical.” Erica Sutherlin, front, directing cast in rehearsal for Passing Strange at Studio@620. Photo by Tyrese Pope, courtesy of TB Arts Passport. The musical ensemble will consist of: Andre "Shacar" Smith as The Youth - The guitar-wielding protagonist. Olivia Neal as Mother - The emotional epicenter representing home, sacrifice, and love. Jacob Smith as Narrator - The guiding voice navigating audience members through the passionate and sentimental moments of his younger years. and The Shape-Shifting Ensemble - A selective group of performers who transform into multifaceted characters whose destinies intertwine with The Youth. Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased here: General Admission $40; Studio Member/Senior $35; Students $25; and groups of 10 or more $35. The musical dates are listed below: Thursday, June 11th to Saturday, June 13th & Thursday, June 18th to Saturday, June 20th at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 13th to Saturday, June 14th & Saturday, June 20 to Sunday, June 21st at 3:00 p.m. Meet the cast, get behind-the-scenes rehearsal updates, and follow more on the stage production on Studio@620's Instagram. 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.

Chief Barbara Tripp, Tampa’s first female fire chief, is being recognized as the Public Service Honoree at the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Beacon of Change Celebration. Image retrieved from Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Facebook Page. Chief Barbara Tripp will be recognized as the Public Service Honoree at the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Beacon of Change Celebration, honoring a career grounded in public safety, community service and historic leadership in Tampa Bay. Hosted by the USF Black Alumni Society and the COACH Foundation, the celebration will spotlight local changemakers whose work has strengthened the region through business, public service, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement. Tripp’s recognition highlights her decades of service to Tampa residents and her role in shaping a stronger, safer, and more prepared community. A Tampa native and Hillsborough High School graduate, Tripp first served in the United States Navy before returning home to build a career with Tampa Fire Rescue. Over the years, she served across the department as a firefighter, paramedic, field training officer, lieutenant, captain, acting district chief, quality assurance officer, rescue division supervisor, and rescue division chief. In 2021, Tripp became the first female fire chief in Tampa Fire Rescue history. Her appointment marked a historic moment for the department and reflected the years of experience, training, and leadership she brought to the role after rising through nearly every level of fire service. Her background as a registered nurse, combined with advanced degrees in emergency management and nursing, has helped shape the way she approaches crisis response, training, and community preparedness. That same commitment to care is reflected in her work beyond the firehouse, where she has mentored youth, supported families in need, and remained connected to the residents she serves. Her recognition as a Public Service Honoree celebrates leaders in government, education, and advocacy whose work continues to create safer and more equitable communities. The 2nd Annual Juneteenth Beacon of Change Celebration will be held Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the USF Alumni Center, 4202 E. Fowler Ave. in Tampa, with dinner served at 7 p.m. The evening will honor Tripp and other Tampa Bay leaders whose service continues to leave a lasting mark on the region. 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. More Photos Recently, Chief Tripp spoke as keynote at the Athena Society May luncheon, celebrating women who are continuing to push forward in their education, careers, and leadership, and honoring the 2026 Phyllis P. Marshall Career Assistance Grant recipients. Image retrieved from Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Facebook Page. This year’s Beacon of Change recipients include Chief Barbara Tripp and Chief Watts for public service, Dr. Tucker-Johnson as Legacy Builder, Ashley Morrow as Community Champion, and Sam Barrington for Business Impact. Flyer Retrieved from USF Black Alumni Association Instagram Page. Chief Tripp image retrieved from Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Facebook Page.

Dr. Shelly Wagers (left), director of USF’s Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab, and representatives of the Tampa and Miami field offices of Homeland Security Investigations signed a groundbreaking agreement on May 22. Photo: USF. By merging federal muscle with academic innovation, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the University of South Florida are launching a new offensive against human trafficking that prioritizes victim support. On May 22, the HSI Tampa and Miami field offices signed a memorandum of understanding with USF’s Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience (TIP) Lab to adopt a victim response framework developed by researchers and successfully utilized by over 145 local and state agencies since 2024. Stakeholders believe the federally enhanced, collaborative effort will bolster survivor support, service coordination, and research that will ultimately benefit victims and disrupt perpetrators. The lab’s Bridging Resources and Information Gaps in Human Trafficking (BRIGHT) Network is a critical component. Developed in collaboration with anti-trafficking experts and survivors, the BRIGHT Network enables vetted organizations to coordinate and provide resources for exploited adults and minors. Florida lacked a holistic care network and comprehensive associated data before the online platform’s launch. “By partnering with the University of South Florida and leveraging innovative tools like BRIGHT, we are not only strengthening our ability to identify, recover, and support survivors of human trafficking, but multiplying our impact through enhanced collaboration with federal, state, and local partners,” said Micah McCombs, acting special agent in charge of HSI Tampa. “This truly is a force multiplier.” The platform functions as a high-tech command center, allowing social workers, non-profits, and law enforcement to coordinate life-saving services - from emergency healthcare to safe housing - with unprecedented speed. Unifying frontline professionals on a single digital interface ensures victims of labor and sex trafficking no longer fall through the gaps of a once- fragmented system. HSI special agents and victim assistance specialists will use an expanded version of BRIGHT that was specifically designed for law enforcement. USF’s announcement states that the new partnership reflects the agency’s survivor-centered approach to investigations. Placing a high value on identifying, recovering, and stabilizing survivors also aids in capturing and prosecuting their traffickers. Jose R. Figueroa, acting special agent in charge of HSI Miami, noted that combating human trafficking requires extensive stakeholder partnerships, “especially in academia.” “This partnership has already produced evidence-based research that will inform how HSI can more effectively deploy our limited personnel to stabilize victims and ensure traffickers are held accountable,” Figueroa said. “Together, we are advancing our mission to dismantle trafficking networks and strengthen long-term outcomes for victims across Florida.” A snapshot of long-missing data in the TIP Lab’s inaugural state report, released in July 2025. Image: Screengrab. Research and victims The TIP Lab, housed at the USF St. Petersburg campus, released its first tranche of long-overdue research in July 2025. Florida is home to over 200,000 sex trafficking victims, and experts estimate that minors comprise half that population. Another 500,000 people suffer from labor exploitation, according to the 2024 State Report on Human Trafficking. The study provides a baseline of data for future comparison. Florida has one of the country’s highest human trafficking rates due to its population, the number of major cities that host national and international events, and its concentration of airports and ports. Agriculture, tourism, and adult entertainment - industries often supported by labor exploitation - thrive in the state. The report found that 55% of youth screened for human trafficking were Caucasian and 37% were African American, despite that demographic accounting for approximately 15% of the state’s population. Polk, Orange, and Brevard Counties had the highest number of “likely or very likely” cases. Researchers scored counties according to human trafficking risk, response, resilience, and prevention efforts. Hillsborough County excelled for its “active intervention and enforcement.” Pinellas, Palm Beach, and Okaloosa Counties topped the list of major urban areas that “face significant trafficking risk but show concerning gaps in response capacity” and require recommended “enhanced intervention resources.” Help should be on the way. According to USF, the new agreement with HSI will help “develop and evaluate a scalable response model” to inform anti-trafficking efforts throughout and beyond Florida. The ability to connect a survivor with the right advocate and resources at the moment they are found can mean the difference between a successful rescue and a return to the shadows. Dr. Shelly Wagers, director of the TIP Lab, believes an enhanced BRIGHT Network can be that conduit. “What makes this project unique is that it brings together survivors, service providers, federal partners, university researchers, and operational technology into one coordinated response effort,” Wagers said. “Our hope is that this work helps build more connected systems that reduce the burden victims and survivors often face while navigating recovery and support during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.” A graphic highlighting priority recommendations for select Florida counties. Image: Screengrab. 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

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced his long-awaited property tax reform plan on Wednesday, despite significant concerns from local government officials. Image: Screengrab. ​Gov. Ron DeSantis has unveiled what he believes is a palatable, phased approach to property tax reform that would immediately raise the homestead exemption on primary residences to $250,000. ​His framework, announced in Tampa on Wednesday morning, would then require lawmakers to enact a plan that eliminates property taxes for 92% of Florida residents by raising the exemption to $500,000. DeSantis said he would convene another legislative special session, the third this year, on Monday to create a required ballot amendment that appeals to all voters in November. ​The term-limited governor believes his proposal ensures that local governments, which rely on property taxes, can still fund core services. A state-sponsored trust fund would also support rural areas disproportionately affected by the loss of revenue. ​“I want to get something done,” DeSantis said. “I want to make sure people can go and vote on something that’s going to be very, very meaningful in their lives.” ​DeSantis, who has discussed property tax reform for over a year, began by noting that people were “chomping at the bit” to hear his plan, which is far from a done deal. At least 60% of lawmakers must approve a constitutional amendment, followed by the same percentage of voters. ​Republicans hold a supermajority in both Florida chambers, which increases the odds of legislative approval. Cost-burdened voters are also likely to find the proposal appealing. ​“The good thing about property tax relief is it’s good for everybody,” DeSantis said. “Red, blue, none of the above - you’re going to get property tax relief. I don’t think it’s a partisan issue.” ​The plan ​DeSantis said homestead tax revenue, fueled by increasing home values, has jumped from $32 billion to $60 billion over the past seven years. While he would prefer to eliminate that funding “cold turkey,” he also noted that lawmakers and voters would likely reject the idea. ​Increasing the state’s homestead exemption from $50,000 to $250,000 would eliminate property taxes for 60% of homeowners, DeSantis said. He believes a phased approach will help ensure support, and a “smooth transition to where people aren’t going to say, ‘Oh, you’re not going to be able to have money for services.’ ​A subsequent increase to $500,000, after securing initial voter approval, would eliminate property taxes for 92% of homeowners. The state would then mandate that local governments can only use revenue from non-homesteaded properties - rentals, vacation homes, secondary residences, businesses, and vacant land - to fund schools and public safety agencies. ​“That’s still an awful lot,” DeSantis said. “That’ll be more than $50 billion. That’s still a lot of money, way more than they (local governments) got just seven years ago.” ​The impact ​However, costs have also soared for Florida counties and cities. St. Petersburg officials, already decreasing departmental funding and increasing municipal rates to mitigate a tightening budget, estimate an annual revenue loss of $83 million if all homesteaded properties become exempt from taxes. ​“This plan will bankrupt many small cities and towns across Florida,” City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard said in a social media post on Wednesday. “It will dramatically hamper services in counties and cities with more resources. What it will not do is drive down costs. It is a bait and switch, and this governor will not be around to deal with it as local communities suffer.” ​Tampa Mayor Jane Castor has warned that property taxes account for 70% of the city’s general fund, and that still doesn’t cover public safety costs. Pasco County would lose up to $480 million in annual revenue under DeSantis’ proposal. ​The plan, which also decreases local assessments on small businesses from 10% to 5%, includes two measures to garner voter support. DeSantis said the state is launching a website that highlights how much Floridians would save on their tax bills. ​In addition, new residents must pay up to five years of taxes under the current system before qualifying for relief. “I don’t want Floridians to go and see this on the ballot and say, ‘Oh man, I really would like property tax relief, but I don’t want the entire state of Illinois to empty out into Florida or wherever because of this,’” DeSantis said. ​“When these things appear on the ballot, every word matters in terms of what people think they’re voting on,” he added. “So, you want to make sure that it’s clear; you want to make sure that it’s something that pops, meaningfully.” 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

Hillsborough County, Florida, native Henry Lee Parker, Jr. became the first student to complete a degree through Bethune-Cookman’s new fully online program, ‘B-CU Global.’ Lee Parker, Jr. is the official first graduate of ‘B-CU Global,’ the university's new program designed to expand degree-completion opportunities for working adults, military service members, veterans, and re-admits. His successful matriculation through their program marks a key milestone for the institution’s online learning platform. Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune-Cookman University is a private, historically Black university in Daytona Beach, Florida. With a mission to develop global leaders committed to service, B-CU empowers students through academic excellence, innovative programs, and a rich tradition of cultural and community engagement. With the addition of its new online degree program, B-CU extends the flexibility of online degree access. During the Spring 2026 semester, ‘B-CU Global’ enrolled its first students in a fully online program. This new, stylized program offers accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees, with options for evening, weekend, and self-paced learning. Through this self-paced course, scholars can study through flexible online coursework designed for individuals balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Lee Parker Jr. earned a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies. “Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune built this university on the principle that education is the gateway to opportunity and service,” said Dr. Albert Mosley, President of Bethune-Cookman University. “Celebrating our first ‘B-CU Global’ graduate is a powerful reminder that her vision continues to evolve – reaching students in new ways and ensuring that working adults, military members, and veterans have a clear path to finish what they started.” Students can pursue undergraduate degrees in psychology, criminal justice, business administration, interdisciplinary studies, and national security and global affairs. Graduate offerings include nursing, Christian ministry, business administration, organizational leadership, exceptional student education, and integrative environmental science. For more information, including how to apply to ‘B-CU Global,’ visit www.Cookman.edu. 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.

Attorney Kimberly G. Jackson (left), former executive director of the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions at St. Petersburg College, will help former U.S. Rep. David Jolly make educated policy decisions as he campaigns to become Florida’s next governor. Photo: kimberlygjackson.com, davidjolly.com. With multiple polls confirming his frontrunner status among the Democratic field in Florida’s gubernatorial race, former Congressman David Jolly is establishing a new arsenal of top national, state, and local talent. ​The campaign’s most prominent addition is Joe Trippi, who has worked in national Democratic politics for over four decades, including with Ted Kennedy and Walter Mondale. Touted on the cover of The New Republic as the man who “reinvented campaigning,” Trippi most famously managed Howard Dean’s groundbreaking grassroots presidential campaign in 2004, and was named as a senior advisor to Jolly. ​Jolly, a Pinellas County native, has also welcomed a top local strategist to the team. Attorney Kimberly G. Jackson, who previously led the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions (ISPS) at St. Petersburg College, will serve as a policy advisor. ​South Florida-based Christian Ulvert, who served as lead strategist for Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s successful re-election bid in 2024, was also named a senior advisor for Jolly’s campaign. The announcement followed a recent Change Research poll of 2,070 registered voters that showed Jolly leading his chief Democratic primary opponent, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, 42% to 27%. ​Republican frontrunner U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (42%), endorsed by President Donald Trump, also trailed Jolly (46%) in the poll. “This is a race with profound national implications,” Jolly said in a prepared statement. ​“As the country is now tuning into Florida and investing in Democratic prospects in the Sunshine State, we are continuing to build the team to win and deliver historic change,” Jolly added. “I’m thrilled to have Kimberly (Jackson), Christian (Ulvert), and Joe (Trippi) on board.” ​Jackson recently stepped down as executive director of ISPS, where she championed statewide civic engagement and evidence-based policy decisions for over six years, to launch a private law and consultancy firm. The subsequent decision to join Jolly’s campaign was rooted in a shared belief that character, education, and active listening can help cure a fractured political landscape. ​“I believe in David’s (Jolly’s) character, values, and integrity,” Jackson told Power Broker Magazine. “I believe that he wants to do things for the right reasons.” ​A self-proclaimed policy nerd, Jackson emphasized the importance of people making informed, autonomous choices. That requires a deep understanding of pertinent issues rather than relying on soundbites, she said. ​Jackson views matters that affect daily life — transportation, healthcare, the cost of living — not as abstract political talking points, but as an "ecosystem" that must support everyone, regardless of wealth, race, or ethnicity. “Everything we hear loudly - that’s not what we talk about as neighbors,” she said of partisan discourse. ​“There’s no magic wand to change things; it really takes people understanding issues and going into their own system of life and values, and then making a decision,” Jackson elaborated. “That is a part of my DNA. I want people to have a choice, and if they come to the same conclusion after they’re educated about something, then they’ve done their job as a citizen.” ​She believes Jolly also operates from a place of deep reflection, constantly seeking insight to better serve the public. A circle of astute advisors helps ensure decisions are made with clarity. ​Jackson plans to lean on her active listening skills, an oft-underappreciated attribute refined throughout her tenure at ISPS, in her new role. “It is something that I value the most,” she said. ​Listening to people from various walks of life in a “challenging environment” may not change your viewpoint, Jackson noted, but it does foster empathy. “It certainly lets you understand the complexity of things, and that allows you to be more open,” she added. Florida hasn’t elected a Democratic governor since Lawton Chiles in 1994. Trippi is no stranger to helping candidates overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. As a campaign media strategist, Trippi guided Jerry Brown to a comeback victory in the 2010 California gubernatorial race. In 2017, he also helped Doug Jones become the first Democrat to win a U.S. Senate race in Alabama in 25 years. Trippi should help Jolly appeal to a broad range of voters who’ve become disenchanted with Trump’s influence over state politics. He has served as a senior advisor for the Lincoln Project, a national organization dedicated to fighting “Trumpism”and supporting democracy, since 2021. “We have to stop seeing this as Democrat vs. Republican. Right vs left,” Trippi said of joining the Lincoln Project. “This has to be all of us coming together in a pro-democracy coalition to defeat an authoritarian movement that is using every means to seize power.” Joe Trippi currently serves as senior advisor for the Lincoln Project. Photo: The Lincoln Project. 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.

Governor Ron DeSantis held an unveiling ceremony in April in Bok Tower Gardens for a statue of President Calvin Coolidge. Later that day, he announced that the special session on redistricting would be delayed. Florida’s new congressional map remains in play, at least, for now. On Tuesday, a Leon County judge denied a request to block the controversial new map from going into effect while a case from voting rights groups is heard. Plaintiffs, including the League of Women Voters, Common Cause and the Equal Ground Education Fund, had requested a preliminary injunction earlier this month to pause the new map pending a final ruling from a court. Read the full story at Central Florida Public Media.

In this latest episode of The Pulse, host Adrienne Reddick sits down for a closer look at what is stressing folks in the Tampa Bay area, with Zaneta Ellison-McGraw of New Vision Behavioral Health, Inc., and Dr. Emmanuela Pierre-Charles of Vie Wellness Center. Both seasoned mental health professionals, Ellison-McGraw and Pierre-Charles share what they are hearing from the people they counsel. Importantly, the episode also spotlights how to tell the difference between everyday stress and something more serious. Click here to watch full episode on the Power Broker Media Group YouTube page.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (front, left) and St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch. Castor will no longer represent the city under Florida’s new congressional map. Photo by Mark Parker. ​Political leaders across Tampa Bay are reacting with bewilderment to a newly redrawn congressional map that has urban St. Petersburg sharing a massive district with rural DeSoto County, nearly 90 miles away. ​Gov. Ron DeSantis first unveiled the redistricting map to Fox News on Monday, as lawmakers gathered in Tallahassee for a special session. Republican legislators, who hold a supermajority, approved what voting rights groups and Democrats believe is blatant partisan gerrymandering on Wednesday, less than 48 hours later. ​The map leaves Tampa Bay, home to approximately 3.4 million people, without a Democratic-leaning congressional district. U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, who currently represents much of Tampa and South St. Petersburg, would find herself competing for a seat that instead extends east to Plant City and unincorporated Hillsborough County if the hurried changes survive inevitable legal challenges. ​“What they did to St. Petersburg is so disrespectful,” Castor told Power Broker Magazine. “Putting downtown St. Pete – all the way over to Treasure Island and St. Pete Beach, all of Bay Pines – and connecting that with Hardee and DeSoto Counties, just to eliminate the one lone Democratic district on the entire west coast of Florida.” ​St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch, in a letter to Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez, said the map would shift representation for “dense and historically connected communities” into the hands of residents from multiple counties with “vastly different economic and demographic profiles.” A close up view of how redistricting affects Tampa Bay. Image: Screengrab, davesredistricting.org. Welch noted that underserved neighborhoods, now part of Florida’s 14th Congressional District, share priorities regarding affordable housing, transportation, coastal resilience, economic development, and access to social services. The southern half of St. Petersburg is now in a redrawn 16th Congressional District, which runs south to Manatee County before a sharp turn east to encompass a wide swath of rural, inland areas. ​“Splitting our city and (Pinellas) County unnecessarily would weaken the ability of our residents to advocate effectively on the issues that matter most,” Welch wrote. “The state constitution prohibits drawing districts that favor a political party, requires districts to be compact, and requires respect for existing community boundaries whenever possible.” ​The map adds four statewide Republican leaning districts to the 20 of 28 already held by the party. President Donald Trump has asked Republican-led states to help the party retain control of Congress through atypical mid-decade redistricting. ​DeSantis, who is serving out his final year as governor, contends that Florida’s existing congressional map “has been distorted by considerations of race,” according to a letter sent by his general counsel to lawmakers. “The people of Florida have been deprived of appropriate representation in the U.S. House of Representatives,” it states. ​The letter also notes that Florida gained only one additional House seat after the 2020 census, despite substantial growth since 2010. However, the redrawn map cannot reflect new population numbers as the U.S. Census has yet to conduct an update. ​Florida’s voter-approved Fair District Amendment, adopted in 2010, explicitly prohibits redistricting to favor one political party. Castor noted that DeSantis unveiled a “red and blue map that obviously shows this is a partisan exercise.” ​“Can you believe that?” Castor continued. “He gave that map to Fox News before he gave it to the Legislature.” Florida’s current congressional map (left), and one as unveiled by Gov. Ron DeSantis. During Wednesday’s debates, State Sen. Darryl Rouson said the “poorest neighborhoods in St. Pete, that have always struggled to be heard, will find themselves in a district contorted in such an unnatural way that they seem more like an addendum, or an afterthought, than full participants in the democratic process.” ​Rouson also expressed concern with the redistricting process, which typically involves dozens of statewide public hearings. Lawmakers and residents first saw the map, color-coded by political party, on Monday. ​Responding to the state’s claims that the current map was drawn with consideration to demographics, Rouson questioned if it was now “race neutral to split up communities made up largely of minority voters in ways that geographically make no sense otherwise?” ​“Are we to understand that these (new) race-neutral maps coincidentally split up predominantly Black voters in a way that just happens to be politically advantageous to one partisan group?” Rouson added. ​Florida’s 15th Congressional District spans from Ybor City to rural Citrus County under the new map. Castor called the sweeping changes “insulting” to voters, particularly those throughout Tampa Bay. ​Castor blamed unpopular Republican policies for the redistricting. She said people are struggling to afford the soaring cost of living, and Trump is afraid of losing a House majority in November’s midterm elections. ​“This is purely partisan gerrymandering,” Castor said. “I anticipate now that a number of good government groups, like the League of Women Voters, are going to ask the court for an injunction and to declare the maps unconstitutional under the Florida Fair District Amendment.” ​Lawmakers have yet to complete a budget, and DeSantis is waiting until June to call another special session. Castor said the term-limited governor is appeasing the president and prioritizing redistricting over helping constituents afford their electric and property insurance bills. ​Castor said she would likely run for reelection in a drastically reconfigured District 14. She also pledged to “continue to work my heart out for St. Petersburg.” ​Dismayed residents should hold Republican state lawmakers accountable at the ballot box, Castor said, “especially in Pinellas County.” She noted that they took an oath to uphold the Florida Constitution. For now, those affected can still “count on me,” Castor said. She will be in St. Petersburg over the weekend. “I love St. Petersburg; we have a long history together,” Castor concluded. “I’m their advocate, and I’m going to continue to stand up for them – no matter what.” ​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

A Drone Hive atop the St. Petersburg Police Department’s headquarters launches one of three remotely operated aircraft that now respond to calls for assistance in real-time. All photos by Mark Parker. Police Chief Anthony Holloway has a message for would-be criminals and residents in distress: The agency’s eyes in the sky are watching over St. Petersburg. ​Holloway highlighted the St. Petersburg Police Department’s ongoing, high-altitude evolution on Wednesday. Officers now have a rooftop Drone Hive at their disposal, which allows them to use cutting-edge technology as additional first responders. ​The three drones, controlled by pilots inside SPPD’s new Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC), can provide quicker response times for high-priority calls. On-board cameras and thermal imaging can help officers locate suspects, missing children, endangered adults, and alert them to officers who need additional assistance. ​“I want people to know that when you commit a crime here in St. Pete, you may not see us, but the drone sees you, and we are on our way, ” Holloway said. “We are now making the city safer. We’ve got a new tool in our toolbox, thanks to the mayor and city council.” Police Chief Anthony Holloway inside the new Real Time Intelligence Center at the St. Petersburg Police Department’s headquarters. The department began using drones in 2019 to assist with SWAT operations and narcotics raids. Officers subsequently realized the technology’s usefulness in fatal traffic accident investigations. ​Holloway noted that in 2024, in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, city officials “came up with a great idea” for the remotely piloted aircraft: Storm damage reconnaissance. He said the SPPD then established a “drone as a first responder” initiative in response to Mayor Ken Welch’s missives to innovate. ​The department now has 11 drones and 37 pilots, who must first receive Federal Aviation Authority certification before completing an internal training program. “The drones are not here to replace the officers on the streets,” Holloway emphasized. ​“The drones are here as a tool so we can get to the scenes quicker, and we can give them more information so they can arrive safer.” ​Officers initially stowed the drones, which each cost approximately $20,000, in the trunks of patrol cars. The first Hive drone, remotely operated by pilots within the RTIC, launched from the rooftop of SPPD headquarters earlier this year. ​Sgt. Robert Long, supervisor of the RTIC, said a new technologically advanced platform allows officers to access several hundred public-facing cameras throughout the city. Those are all in “areas where there’s no expectation of privacy” to avoid any constitutional conflicts. ​Officers in the RTIC pull up live camera feeds as calls for assistance are unfolding. They also launch the Hive drones and provide additional information from both systems, including whether a suspect is armed or fleeing, to responding colleagues in real-time. Sgt. Robert Long(right) motions toward an officer who is viewing a live feed from a camera at the St. Pete Pier. The Hive features three drones. Each boasts a three-mile flight radius, can stay in the air for 35 minutes, has a top speed of 46 mph, and has a maximum altitude of 400 feet. Up to four easily interchangeable batteries allow for redeployment. ​RTIC pilots can now remotely control drones deployed from patrol cars. Long said that enables officers on-scene to focus on police work. ​Long also noted that three civilian analysts work behind the scenes, primarily with detectives, “to provide all sorts of efficiencies with things like patterns, suspect identification, and any kind of data collection and review.” In addition, the program provides a significant boost to evidence location and preservation efforts. “It’s radically improving efficiency and safety,” Long added. “It’s had an immediate impact.” A view of a camera feed from a Hive drone after it intercepted a staged auto theft at Tropicana Field. Including training and 863 service calls, the department has completed 2,223 total flights over the past 13 months. Those numbers will soon increase exponentially. ​Long said the SPPD will strategically position four additional Hives with a total of 12 drones throughout St. Petersburg over the next two years. “The idea is to provide as much coverage citywide as possible.” ​While some of the system’s software utilizes artificial intelligence (AI), Long said the drones cannot fly autonomously. Holloway said the department is also legally prohibited from using the airborne cameras for surveillance unless a crime has already been committed. ​The department will explore potential workforce development partnerships with local schools and organizations “down the road,” Holloway said. For now, he and his officers are focused on maximizing the program’s impact while remaining within their allotted budget. ​Holloway said he could never have imagined, when his law enforcement career began 40 years ago, that Drone Hives and a Real Time Intelligence Center would one day be used to enhance public safety. “Now you’re talking about a huge game changer,” he said. 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 More Photos What officers in the Real Time Intelligence Center see when operating a Hive drone. Officers carry eight other drones in the trunks of their patrol cars for remote deployment. A close-up view of a camera feed from the St. Pete Pier The Drone Hive opens and deploys its cargo in approximately 30 seconds.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch talk before the Tampa Bay Rays’ home opener on April 6. Photo by Mark Parker. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch has garnered a high-profile, cross-bay endorsement as the battle for his seat intensifies. ​Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, who has often worked in lockstep with Welch on issues affecting the Tampa Bay region, praised the incumbent’s steady leadership and commitment to delivering actionable community progress. The announcement on Wednesday morning came less than two days after former Gov. Charlie Crist became the seventh person to enter the 2026 mayoral race. ​“Mayor Ken Welch has been a thoughtful, collaborative leader for St. Petersburg and a strong partner for our entire region,” Castor said in a prepared statement. “He leads with integrity, puts people first, and understands how to bring communities together to get things done. St. Petersburg is stronger because of his leadership, and I’m proud to support his re-election.” ​Earlier this month, the two mayors simultaneously threw out ceremonial first pitches when the Tampa Bay Rays returned to a storm-repaired Tropicana Field for the first time since September 2024. Castor and Welch have frequently advocated for transit, affordable housing, environmental resilience, and workforce development initiatives that benefit the region. ​Castor must leave office in 2027 after serving two consecutive four-year terms. Welch said he was honored to receive an endorsement from one of Tampa Bay’s most respected leaders. ​“I’m grateful to Mayor Castor for her partnership with and support,” Welch added. “The Tampa Bay region succeeds when we work together, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made by building strong relationships across our cities. As we look ahead, I’m focused on continuing to create opportunity, expand affordable housing, and ensure St. Petersburg remains a city where everyone can thrive.” Former Gov. Charlie Crist aired his first political ad before the home opener. Photo by Mark Parker. The city’s first Black mayor faces stiff competition from Crist, a prior supporter. While the race is nonpartisan, both are currently Democrats. ​Crist first sought a seat in the Florida Senate in 1986 and has spent four decades pursuing or holding public office as a registered Republican, Independent, and Democrat. His mayoral campaign has yet to announce any endorsements; however, his political committee has already raised nearly $1.2 million. ​The former congressman, who most recently lost a second gubernatorial bid to Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2022, spent the past two years in Minnesota. Crist moved back to St. Petersburg in August 2025, just in time to qualify for this year’s primary election. ​After filing for his seventh political office on Monday, Crist told WTVT that he is “addicted to public service. He added that “you’ve got to get on the field and let the people decide.” ​Welch recently received endorsements from State Rep. Michele Rayner, former State Sen. Arthenia Joyner, Pinellas County Commissioner Rene Flowers, and City Council members Copley Gerdes and Deborah Figgs-Sanders. The St. Petersburg Association of Fire Fighters, the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association, former County Commissioners Pat Gerard and Susan Latvala, and Gulfport City Councilmember Jennifer Webb, also a former state representative, have previously offered their support. ​A crowded field of challengers includes City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, former Fire Chief Jim Large, former Shore Acres Neighborhood Association President Kevin Batdorf, perennial candidate Paul Congemi, and Maria Scruggs, former president of the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP. ​Scruggs, who has received support from more than 1,000 registered voters, announced on Monday that she is the only candidate to qualify via petitions. “This milestone reflects a campaign built on strategic planning, disciplined execution, and strong community engagement – achieved with limited financial resources,” states the announcement. ​Welch previously told Power Broker Magazine that his supporters within local government and throughout the community are “folks who live, work, and play in St. Pete, and have been visible and active in our community over the past 4.5 years. And I think that’s important.” ​“You don’t get anything accomplished without having significant partners,” Welch said. “So, having those leaders, folks who have done the hard work on the ground, both in times of celebration and in times of challenge, means a lot. And that’s the way we’ll continue to be successful.” 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

The 20th African American Health Forum is Saturday at the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg’s Center for Health Equity. Photo: St. Petersburg Innovation District. ​Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their white counterparts, one of many stunning statistics that highlight persistent health disparities. ​Dr. Kenneth Bryant, founder of the Minority Health Coalition of Pinellas (MHCP), organized the African American Health Forum to help mitigate those discrepancies. His organization, in partnership with the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, will commemorate the event’s 20th anniversary on Saturday. ​The foundation’s Center for Health Equity will host the forum from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at 2333 34th St. S. in St. Petersburg. Attendees will receive complimentary health screenings, hear from national experts, and establish connections with local healthcare providers. ​“We believe the solution is community education,” Bryant said. “The MHCP’s focus is to educate the community on these health disparities. These health disparities exist, and early detection is one way to eliminate these disparities.” ​Bryant, a urologist, moved to St. Petersburg about 40 years ago. He noticed that African Americans were nearly twice as likely to develop prostate cancer and die from the disease compared to “any other group in the world.” ​Intent on addressing the issue, Bryant launched the Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group. The nonprofit partnered with Bayfront Health Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the St. Petersburg Chapter of the National Black Nurses Association to organize the first iteration of the African American Health Forum (AAHF) in 1998. ​Bryant’s nonprofit evolved into the MHCP “because we found out that there are health disparities in almost every disease that you can think of.” African Americans are disproportionately more likely to suffer from diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, strokes, kidney disease, and “almost all cancers,” he said. Dr. Kenneth Bryant (second from right), founder of the Minority Health Coalition of Pinellas, at a previous African American Health Forum. The event’s roots trace back to 1998. Photo: Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg. The MHCP also focuses on social determinants of health. These include where people are born, live, work, play, and their quality of life, which encompasses factors such as housing, education, income, and community safety. ​Bryant noted that economic, environmental, and physical health intertwine. “In St. Petersburg, if African Americans live in a place with a high industrial footprint, research has shown that will also cause an increase in health disparities,” he said. ​The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg has conducted that research. A study released in December 2024 found a 16-year life expectancy gap between residents of Campbell Park, a predominantly Black neighborhood, and those who live in the more affluent Snell Isle area. ​According to the AAHF announcement, community health rankings have climbed in recent years. However, persistent disparities remain, which underscores the need for continued outreach. ​The free event will offer educational panel discussions on chronic disease, maternal and fetal health, mental wellness, and other topics. Renowned researcher and thought leader Dr. B. Lee Green, a senior member of the Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior at Moffitt Cancer, is the keynote speaker. ​Attendees can receive blood pressure, glucose, glaucoma, skin cancer, cholesterol, and vision screenings. They can also connect with health care providers of color. ​Bryant noted that a lack of trust also exacerbates health disparities. He said African Americans often feel like they’re not being treated properly by white physicians, who may not have the social or cultural competence needed to adequately treat minorities. ​Dr. Kanika Tomalin, CEO of the foundation, said that genetics, access to care, and provider quality are responsible for about 20% of health outcomes, with social determinants accounting for the remaining 80%. However, the $5.3 trillion annually spent on healthcare in the U.S. does not align with those statistics. ​“We mostly invest in that 20%, and we leave the 80% to chance or to systems that have been proven not to work for the entire population – for which it was designed,” Tomalin explained. “So, when we have forums like this, it brings together the medical community with the community for which it cares … to build real bridges that I think pave a path.” ​That path leads to a better understanding of health conditions, and empowers people to orchestrate rather than merely participate in their medical strategy, Tomalin added. The overarching goal is to help “create the systemic change that’s required to actually see disparities decrease.” ​For more information on the 20th African American Health Forum, visit the website here. 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

Deputy County Administrator Greg Horwedel (standing) called the Tampa Bay Rays’ timeline “very aggressive” when there is still “a lot of work that needs to be done.” Image: Screengrab. Hillsborough County officials have roughly six weeks to approve a $2.3 billion stadium with the Tampa Bay Rays, despite a lack of information, assumption-based financial projections, and a funding shortfall. ​A much-anticipated workshop on Thursday came less than a day after Rays CEO Ken Babby sent a letter to commissioners reiterating that the county and city must approve all agreements, which include over $1 billion in public funding, by June 1 to ensure the team can open a new ballpark by 2029. “Should this commitment ultimately not be achievable, we would have no choice but to evaluate alternatives,” he wrote. ​Thursday’s meeting, however, began with County Administrator Bonnie Wise noting that “several significant issues remain unresolved.” Commission Chair Ken Hagan, a longtime proponent of the Rays moving across the bay, later acknowledged the team’s “sense of urgency to either reach an agreement or cut bait.” ​“I would encourage staff to continue working on the remaining deal points internally and with the team, and make every effort possible to resolve the outstanding issues in advance of our May 6 meeting,” Hagan added. “And when I say that, I do recognize that this will require the team to make concessions on a number of issues.” Hillsborough County officials want to value-engineer the proposed $2.3 billion ballpark to lower its cost. Rendering: Tampa Bay Rays. ​Negotiations between the county and Rays have remained behind closed doors for months. That slightly changed on Thursday, though the meeting concluded with more questions than answers. ​An independent firm found that a 31,000-seat stadium and, primarily, the surrounding mixed-use development at the Hillsborough College Dale Mabry campus, could generate a $63 billion economic impact over 30 years. Wise noted that AECOM reached that conclusion “based on the assumptions in their model.” ​In total, the word “assumption” or its plural form was mentioned 14 times throughout the 97-minute meeting. For example, Commissioner Josh Wostal highlighted that AECOM’s tax collection projections considered only market-rate housing, even though the Rays have promised an untold number of affordable units, which would significantly reduce that value. ​The team has yet to propose a community benefits package or even provide a detailed site plan. Wostal, an outspoken opponent of the current deal, said the county would not see a return on its investment for 30 years. ​Deputy County Administrator Greg Horwedel said the Rays, who will ultimately contribute $1.235 billion to a new ballpark, “have indicated that they need the local public funding up front.” He also noted that the team has yet to verify its financial capacity to complete construction, and has not agreed to a reimbursement plan. “This is a complex deal,” Horwedel said. “We’re not at the stage yet with staff where we feel comfortable with all the dollar amounts that are being proposed, and how those might impact the county budget.” A list of public funding options that leave a $75 million deficit. Image: County documents. Horwedel outlined a financing framework in which the county and city would contribute $702 million and $224 million, respectively, toward a new stadium. While the Rays have reduced their public funding request from $1.065 billion to $1.001 billion, there is still a $75 million gap. ​Chief Financial Administrator Tom Fesler said the county “looked in the couch cushions to see where we could find some revenue.” He suggested using $132 million in cash reserves. ​“You will find some of these funding options challenging to approve,” Fesler added. “We had limited ability to get to the … $750 million on the county side without looking at every available option possible.” ​After presenting a potential spending plan, Horwedel highlighted 13 unresolved issues staff must address before a commission vote. Those include ownership of the stadium after the team’s lease expires, its effect on neighboring sports facilities, how to relocate Hillsborough’s busiest tax collector’s office, and value engineering the ballpark to reduce its cost. ​A majority of commissioners expressed various levels of support for the project. All who spoke also aired concerns that must be addressed within weeks, according to the Rays. Babby wrote that the team’s deadlines are “driven by practical constraints, not pressure tactics.” The Rays risk losing state funding if those timelines are not met, which would “render the deal economically infeasible.” ​”Ultimately, we must decide what the value of Major League Baseball is to our community – from both the tangible benefits of economic impact to the intangible benefits of having pride in your hometown team,” Babby wrote. “However, we cannot proceed with an agreement that does not position the team for long-term success.” ​Horwedel called the team’s timeline “very aggressive” as there is “still a lot of work that needs to be done.” Commissioner Harry Cohen said he would “love to be able to vote yes on this.” ​“But I can only vote yes on it if I’m absolutely convinced that it’s the right thing for the community and taxpayers,” he added. ​Commissioner Gwen Myers said the negotiating parties “need to come together to see how we can make the deal work” while fulfilling previous promises to residents. Hagan said final agreements will “look dramatically different than what’s been disseminated.” ​Tampa City Council members will host a workshop on May 5. Hagan hopes to vote on an updated memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Rays on May 6. A list of 13 unresolved issues. Image: County documents. 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

From left: Jeff Baker, government and community relations manager for Duke Energy; former Deputy Mayor Kanika Tomalin; former Mayor Rick Kriseman; Rob Kapusta, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership board member; and Jeff Hearn, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership board member, at the St. Petersburg Innovation District’s 10th anniversary celebration. All photos by Brian James unless otherwise noted. An ambitious vision to establish a place in St. Petersburg that fosters world-class research, cutting-edge technology, and collaboration-driven innovation has exponentially exceeded expectations. ​Myriad city stakeholders celebrated the St. Petersburg Innovation District’s 10th anniversary on March 10 at one of its anchor institutions: Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. The event, designed to mirror a movie award ceremony, celebrated the local leaders who helped cement the area’s status as an economic, educational, and entrepreneurial juggernaut. ​Just south of downtown, the .88-square-mile district encompasses less than 1% of the city’s square footage. However, the area accounts for over 7% of all jobs and has generated a $3 billion economic impact over the past decade. ​“This district has become a cornerstone of our city’s progress – and our identity,” said Mayor Ken Welch. “As the tech ecosystem expands, the district will continue to drive regional growth and unlock opportunities.” From left: Rob Kapusta, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership board member, City Councilmember Gina Driscoll, Mayor Ken Welch, and former Mayor Rick Kriseman. The St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership led the district’s launch, later formalized by former Mayor Rick Kriseman’s administration. Organizational leaders joined him and his deputy mayor at the time, Dr. Kanika Tomalin, on stage to receive the “Founder of the Future” award for their foresight. ​“We didn’t do it for the recognition,” Kriseman told Power Broker Magazine. “We just hope we made a difference.” ​Alison Barlow, executive director of the district, said Kriseman and Tomalin gave it “legs to continue to grow and to become more structured.” She expressed gratitude for all the early visionaries and those who subsequently “picked up the mantle and said, ‘This is a great idea. Let me add my take on it.’” ​“Over the years, it’s changed, and it’s morphed, but it’s done so in such an amazing way,” Barlow said of the district. “I’m so thankful for everybody who has been working on it.” ​Kriseman, who also expressed pride in the district’s evolution, credited Barlow’s efforts. “Nothing happens unless you have great leadership,” he said. The St. Petersburg Innovation District team, from left: Alison Barlow, executive director; Lauren Bell, chief operating officer; Nisuka Williams, innovation manager; JackFeldman, community manager; and Amber Pacetti, innovation manager. ​The district now boasts over 50 collaborative public and private organizations. Key partners include the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, USF’s College of Marine Science, Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, the Poynter Institute, the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub, and the Dali Museum. ​“We already had some of those anchor institutions in the area,” Kriseman said. “It was just a matter of bringing everybody together and getting them to work together. It just made sense.” ​He believes that “magic happens” in the city when public and private organizations work together to achieve a common goal. Since its launch, the district has added the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Education and Research Building, Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital’s Institute Square, spARK Labs by ARK Invest, two Florida Institute of Oceanography research vessels, and dozens of thriving startups. ​Kriseman said city staff “worked their butts off” and collaborated with the community to set the district, now a global leader in marine and life sciences, up for success. “I think it’s really paying dividends now.” There was a time, Tomalin noted, when people only visited the district for appointments or business and immediately left. The area is now a destination, and she hopes to see its new role as a town square “exponentially increase over time.” ​“I’m really proud of the way it’s transcended even the lofty aspirations we held for it in its infancy,” Tomalin said. “And really proud of the way the Innovation District serves as a signal of possibility for St. Petersburg and its community.” ​While that signal now extends throughout the city, stakeholders once wondered if designating a single district as a hub for innovation was too exclusive. Tomalin saw it differently and believes the past decade has validated that view. ​The area is now “a chief influencer in the way economic development is paced and pursued” in St. Petersburg, Tomalin said. She also believes the foundation exists to further connect the area with surrounding neighborhoods, including Campbell Park, Roser Park, and Old Southeast. ​“I think it is very strategically located and can have a significant impact on equity as it relates to housing, as it relates to job opportunities, and as it relates to the recruitment businesses and organizations that share our city’s values and goals for growth,” Tomalin said. To view the district’s recently completed master plan, its first, visit the website here. 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 More Photos From left: Belinthia Berry, dean of workforce development for St. Petersburg College; Dr. Cynthia Johnson, director of Pinellas County Economic Development; and Julie Rocco, senior director of grants management and administration for the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, at the event’s reception. Photo by Lauren Bell. Rev. J.C. Pritchett III (left), CEO of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, and Alison Barlow, executive director of the St. Petersburg Innovation District. Jason Mathis (right), CEO of the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, and City Councilmember Gina Driscoll, a staunch supporter of the St. Petersburg Innovation District and its Maritime and Defense Technology Hub. Dr. Kanika Tomalin, CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, helped develop an initial strategy for the St. Petersburg Innovation District as an executive with Bayfront Hospital before becoming deputy mayor. Mayor Ken Welch noted that innovation is one of his “Five Pillars for Progress.”

St. Petersburg is now accepting proposals for a company to replace aging analog water meters with more accurate digital versions that are compatible with advanced reporting software. Photos by Mark Parker. A company’s unsolicited proposal to help St. Petersburg replace its outdated water metering infrastructure with a technologically advanced system has intrigued city officials, despite its $77 million cost. ​​Ameresco began its pitch by noting that St. Petersburg faces an “urgent water infrastructure and billing crisis that is eroding public trust and straining household budgets.” The problem hit a crescendo in early 2025 when thousands of households throughout the city began reporting exorbitant water bills – many topped $1,000 monthly – following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. ​Mayor Ken Welch’s administration blamed storm-related leaks; however, issues have persisted. Ameresco’s proposal, received in January, states that public reporting, city council hearings, and litigation have highlighted systemic issues, including faulty meters, processing errors, and limited customer support. ​The city is slowly installing new digital meters. Now, city officials are turning to the private sector for help implementing advanced software that automates readings and more accurately tracks water usage, which would ultimately save money. Officials discussed the proposal and the need for creative solutions to speed up the process on April 2. ​“Mayor Welch has directed staff to try and expedite the transition to digital meters in a timely and cost-effective manner, and I think, we believe, that’s kind of the consensus on city council as well,” said City Administrator Rob Gerdes. “That’s what we want to achieve as a city.” ​Exploring Solutions ​Gerdes added that the city must now decide how it wants to achieve that goal. He noted there are funding challenges for a project that would affect every residential, commercial, and public property in St. Petersburg. ​Council members agreed with moving the process forward by accepting competing proposals and comparing costs, as dictated by Florida’s public-private partnership statute. Administrators opened a month-long submission window on Wednesday. ​The selected company will implement approximately 70,000 digital water meters, an advanced communications network and software platform, and data integration services, and is also responsible for customer engagement and project management. Proposals, due by 3 p.m. on May 19, can include options for private or public financing and ownership. ​“The issue of what is the most fiscally prudent way to do this is extremely important,” Council Chair Lissette Hanewicz said at the April 2 meeting. “Because at the end of the day, that cost gets passed down to our customers.” The city is slowly installing new digital meters. ​St. Petersburg’s current system utilizes analog meters installed in the 1970s. Advanced digital metering infrastructure (AMI) software would provide customers with continuous water usage updates and overconsumption alerts. Public Works Administrator Claude Tankersley called it a “big benefit” for residents. “We can catch potential water leaks quickly and not allow them to continue … leaking that water for a full month,” he said. ​Tankersley said AMI would also save the city and taxpayers money by reducing the amount of unbillable water. St. Petersburg is already installing new digital meters, without the underlying reporting software, but staffing and funding constraints have slowed the process. ​Public works crews have replaced roughly 25,000 of the city’s 97,000 meters. Tankersley said it would take “another five years” to complete the transition. ​An outside company could install thousands of new meters monthly rather than annually, Tankersley added. “My staff and I would like to move forward with hiring somebody to come in and take it over,” he said. ​Tanksersley said the city could pay for the project through a property tax-funded bond issuance that voters must approve in November. Councilmember Richie Floyd, like multiple colleagues, said he atypically supported that idea due to the problem’s magnitude. ​“We’ve got a great solution right in front of us,” said Councilmember Gina Driscoll. “I really need assurance one way or another that this is going to happen very, very soon.” ​Gerdes and Tankersley pledged that it would, potentially with Ameresco leading the way. The company wants to develop, finance, install, and own the new system. The city would reimburse the company every time it successfully reads a meter. Councilmember Copley Gerdes expressed concern over the price tag. He said Amersco’s proposal would ultimately cost the city $77 million, not including inflation adjustments.​“I want to see if there are other ideas out there to get this done,” Gerdes continued. “If we can self-perform it for $25 million – that’s a massive gap.” ​Councilmember Corey Givens Jr. agreed that officials should be “good fiscal stewards of taxpayer funds.” He also believes that the city “cannot continue kicking the can down the road,” and constituents expect services that “provide them with relief, that make their lives easier.” 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

Café Ora’s co-founder, Meiko Seymour, poses with his daughter, Portlynn, and his wife, Simone Seymour. Image Courtesy of Uncommon City. Residents in South St. Petersburg can look forward to a new cafe opening later this year, thanks to St. Petersburg’s community leader and advocate, Meiko Seymour, co-founder of Café Ora. Seymour is no stranger to working in his community and carries a “boots on the ground” mindset. He serves in roles such as lead pioneer and co-founder of Uncommon City, a contemplative church plant rooted in downtown St. Petersburg that launched in February 2025; City of St. Petersburg Housing Authority’s commissioner and Rise Development director; president of the Historic Roser Park Neighborhood Association, and an ordained minister with the International Ministry Network. Meiko Seymour is co-founder and lead pastor of Uncommon City, a contemplative church plant rooted in downtown St. Petersburg. Image courtesy of Uncommon City on Facebook. In addition to these extensive roles, Seymour is also the co-founder of Café Ora: Social Enterprise Coffee Shop. This operational third space is designed for residents of South St. Petersburg and will focus on creating an inviting and welcoming area for the neighborhood. “Everything I do sits at the same intersection: contemplative spirituality, racial equity, and community development. Café Ora is a direct expression of that convergence,” said Seymour. Café Ora’s tentative soft launch is set for August 2026. The shop will be located within The Looking Glass Initiative at 908 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street South in St. Petersburg and will occupy approximately 1,600 square feet. The interior is built with comfort in mind, featuring high ceilings, space for a mix of bar seating, tables, and lounge areas, ample outlets, and free Wi-Fi. Original artwork by Nick Davis and other artists will decorate the space. Core operational hours will be Monday through Friday from 7 am to 3 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm, and Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. Select evenings will extend the cafe’s lounge nights, featuring wine, occasional live performances, neighborhood get-togethers, and community programming. During daytime hours, it’s a specialty coffee house; during the evenings, it’s a communal space with nightlife events; “the coffee anchors us, and the programming is the heartbeat.” Seymour hopes that the new cafe will create economic opportunities and employment pathways for individuals with non-violent records, anchor a stretch of the South MLK corridor, and host programming around education, health equity, the arts, and children’s development. The cafe exists to create meaningful conversations and hosts programs that address needs, including financial literacy, housing rights, health equity, creative expression, and children’s programming. “The goal is dignity. It is an opportunity. It is a place where the Southside community can walk in and immediately feel that this space was built for them,” said Seymour. Café Ora is intentionally developed for residents of the South St. Petersburg community. As a community leader, Seymour observed a lack of “relational space[s]” for residents on the southside and made it his mission to create an open third space where residents can gather and belong, “a space with no pressure.” “Café Ora is a justice project of Uncommon City. We believe good coffee and a beautiful space can be a vehicle for something much deeper: belonging, opportunity, and the kind of communal life that is harder and harder to find,” stated Seymour. Café Ora partners with Look Alive Coffee, a regional specialty roaster based in the Tampa Bay area, for their source of beans. The cafe’s menu will feature specialty espresso drinks, including lattes, drip coffee, pour-overs, and cold brew served on nitrogen. Food options, including pastries, light bites, and grab-and-go options, are sourced from local bakers and food entrepreneurs. Payment methods include cash, card, and digital options. An additional payment method will be available — a community fund. Customers will have the option to add a dollar or two to their purchase, which will cover the cost of food and drinks for those without the means to pay. Alternatively, the coffee shop is also exploring a payment model in which those who cannot pay can contribute to the shop’s space in exchange for their tab. The idea is for no one to be turned away, “dignity runs in every direction here.” Seymour, holds ministry credentials with International Ministries Network (IMN), is currently getting his Masters of Theology and Social Justice at Northeastern Seminary. And holds certifications in Trauma Informed Ministry, Executive NonProfit Leadership, and Thriving Leaders Certificate from Portland Seminary and The Leadership Center. Seymour’s various roles in the community have equipped him to open not just a coffee shop, but a residential communal space in St. Pete’s southside. As Housing Authority Commissioner, he learned how policies can open doors for marginalized people; as a Race Equity Listener, he understood how to navigate systems that weren’t built with those who looked like him in mind. Leading the Historic Roser Park Neighborhood Association taught him how to organize people around a shared vision; serving as the Rise Development Director at the Housing Authority gave him a direct view of the pipeline between housing instability and workforce barriers. Maybe most importantly, over 20 years in ministry have taught Seymour how to listen and build trust in communities. Café Ora’s tagline is simple: “Made for Neighbors.” “Whether you invest, donate, volunteer, show up on opening day, or just tell someone who needs to hear about it, you are part of building this. The table is being set. Pull up a chair,” said Seymour. 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

Lt. Gov. Jay Collins held an impromptu press conference on Monday at the Urban Stillhouse in St. Petersburg. Image: Screengrab. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins has doubled down on his bid to become Florida’s next governor. The former Green Beret also took aim at “pay-to-play media” and his top opponent, a fellow Republican. ​Collins, speaking at a Monday morning press conference in St. Petersburg, repeatedly warned that Democratic candidate David Jolly, who is from the area, could beat U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds in November if he is the Republican nominee. A recent Emerson College Polling survey found that Donalds holds a commanding lead among his party (46%) in the race to replace Gov. Ron DeSantis. ​“The pundits will tell you it’s an uphill fight. Good,” said Collins, a Purple Heart recipient. “Nothing good in life is easy. The facts of the matter are this: We are not done fighting.” Collins, a Tampa resident, began by acknowledging recent reports from “experts, X (formerly Twitter) accounts, and, of course, the effervescent pay-to-play media” regarding his campaign odds. Just 4% of participants in the Emerson College Polling (ECP) survey supported his candidacy, while 39% remain undecided. ​Instead of suspending his campaign, Collins announced an initial “seven-figure statewide media buy to tell our story, to lay out exactly what we’re fighting for.” He pledged to keep living costs affordable and support safer communities. ​“We are going to make sure criminals, and criminal illegal immigrants, are dealt with,” Collins added. “These are the issues that matter to the people of Florida.” ​Collins, who moved to Tampa Bay in 2018 after a decorated 20-year military career, said he represents all 23.5 million Florida residents. He believes the gubernatorial race is about “who can win the general election” rather than campaign funding or endorsements. ​Donalds, from Naples, raised $22.4 million in the first three months of 2026. Collins garnered $1.74 million, the second most among Republican candidates. ​Collins said he and DeSantis helped send Donald Trump, who gave Donalds his “complete and total” endorsement in February 2025, back to the White House. The governor has yet to support a candidate, and some experts expect his wife, Casey, to run. ​“Polling indicates a serious risk of David Jolly becoming the next governor of Florida if Byron (Donalds) is the Republican nominee,” Collins said. “This is not a risk we can afford to take in Florida.” Lt. Gov. Jay Collins is a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump; Trump is shown here with Rep. Byron Donalds, whom he endorsed in February 2025. Photo: U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds’ office. Collins then went on the attack. He noted that his opponent’s “closest advisor, a man that he calls his brother, was arrested for sexual assault of a minor and later pleaded guilty to assaulting another woman and was charged with multiple other violent felonies.” ​“It gets worse,” Collins continued. “Donalds is one of only 28 members of Congress and one of just two in Florida to vote against a bipartisan bill to improve how the FBI investigates child sexual abuse and trafficking.” ​Collins said Donalds claims to oppose congressional stock trading yet completed nearly 200 transactions totaling approximately $2.8 million without “proper disclosure.” The lieutenant governor also called out the congressman for admitting to a third-degree felony for financial crimes while withholding the more serious second-degree charge. ​“Charter schools connected to Donalds received tens of millions in public funding, with roughly 30% going to outside companies tied to his family,” Collins said. He also took issue with his opponent’s declaration that George Floyd’s death was a “heinous murder at a time when law enforcement was at risk.” ​However, Donalds subsequently voted against the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and supports qualified immunity for police officers. “He has flip-flopped on issues like a fish out of water,” Collins said. ​“I wrestled with whether we should have a press conference like this,” he added. “These issues get talked about now, or they get talked about in October. We cannot risk this state falling and having Jolly as our next governor.” ​In ECP’s hypothetical ballot test, Jolly, a Pinellas County native, received 39% of the vote. Donalds garnered 44%, with 17% of those polled remaining undecided and a 2.8% margin of error. A poll highlighting how potential Democratic candidates would fare against U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds in November. Image: Emerson College Polling. 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 ​

The Deuces Live District has a state-designated Main Street, one of four in St. Petersburg. Photos by Mark Parker. St. Petersburg is home to four state-designated Main Streets that foster economic development and historic preservation in traditional business districts. A lack of funding is hindering growth and expansion. ​On April 16, city officials explored avenues to increase support for the local program, which operates under a national model. However, they are also facing a budget crunch and ongoing uncertainty surrounding property tax revenues. ​Councilmember Corey Givens Jr. requested the discussion after hearing that a lack of funding could jeopardize popular Main Street events, including the Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival and Halloween on Central. City Administrator Rob Gerdes noted that the council sets appropriations, and Mayor Ken Welch decides whether to execute a contract. ​“In this case, if you did decide to do some type of additional funding, we would go forward with the appropriation,” Gerdes said. “The mayor doesn’t have any issue with that.” ​Main Streets in the Deuces Live, Grand Central, EDGE, and Skyway Marina Districts each annually receive $55,000, technical support, and in-kind donations – typically services or goods. The city also provides an up to $15,000 match for any revenue generated, primarily from events. ​Nonprofits that govern designated Main Streets must dedicate $32,000 of the annual contribution to an executive director’s salary, $2,000 to promotions, $4,000 to business assistance activities, and $2,000 to board training. ​Issues ​Givens said he has received positive and negative feedback regarding the four Main Streets, and “some do more than others.” He also read a letter from an unnamed executive director who asked the city to increase its subsidy by $20,000. ​All four Main Street organizations have told Givens that without additional funding, “we don’t think these events can continue.” Twice, he noted that $32,000 is not a livable salary in St. Petersburg, and the city risks losing invaluable institutional knowledge. ​“Just to be clear, the City of St. Petersburg is not paying anybody $32,000,” Gerdes replied. “These are not city employees; we are making a contribution. It’s always been our hope that there would be other income raised by the Main Street.” A view of Central Avenue as the EDGE District transitions into the Grand Central District. Economic Development Officer Gary Jones said a nonprofit must represent a traditional commercial corridor with historic buildings to qualify for a Main Street designation under national guidelines. The Skyway Marina District “does not meet either of those criteria.” ​City administrators applied a local designation in 2014 at the behest of former Councilmember Steve Kornell, and Jones believes it “works very well.” Givens questioned what would keep other districts from receiving an exception. ​The answer is funding, said Economic Development Manager Andrea Falvey. Two unnamed business districts have already asked to join the Main Streets program. ​Councilmember Gina Driscoll expressed “discomfort” over the Skyway Marina District receiving the same, limited Main Street funding as those that meet established requirements. She said the MLK Business District likely already meets Main Street criteria. ​The city could provide the district with technical assistance to ensure it meets Main Street requirements but not the associated funding due to budget constraints, Falvey replied. “We need to find a way to be more inclusive,” Driscoll said. ​Driscoll noted that she, her colleagues, and administrators all want to bolster the city’s support for Main Streets. The challenge is finding the money, and Gerdes suggested a contingency fund with about $940,000. A map of St. Petersburg’s Main Streets. Image: City documents. ​Givens prefers to reallocate money, rather than tap any economic development contingency funds. Councilmember Richie Floyd proposed offering additional in-kind contributions, as events account for most of an organization’s revenue. ​Councilmember Copley Gerdes is reluctant to reallocate funding before receiving financial information from the governing nonprofits. Fiscal reports are currently optional. ​Gerdes explained that 10% of the $2.2 million economic development budget already supports the city’s Main Streets. “We have to be very, very intentional if we are going to go down this path,” he said. ​His colleagues on the Economic and Workforce Development Committee agreed. They will discuss the topic further on May 21, after receiving financial documentation. ​“We absolutely will have that information for the next meeting,” said City Development Administrator James Corbett. He also highlighted an “opportunity to tap into some of the new development that is happening in some of these districts to privately fundraise, and we could certainly offer technical assistance.” ​St. Petersburg launched its community-driven Main Streets program in 2001. The Deuces Live and Grand Central Districts were the first to earn the designation by establishing a governing nonprofit with various volunteer-led committees. ​Jones said Main Streets help increase customer traffic and sales, boost local revenues, create a more vibrant business district, and improve the quality of life in surrounding neighborhoods. The program gained popularity nationwide when shopping malls began pulling people away from longstanding commercial corridors and into the suburbs. 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