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Residents at a North Greenwood Community Advisory Committee meeting in March. Clearwater officials are extending the review process for a redevelopment district overlay to address stakeholder concerns. (Photo courtesy of the City of Clearwater) Faced with the prospect of gentrification, a historically Black community in Clearwater is organizing to demand a seat at the table and insisting that any redevelopment must prioritize residents over investors. ​ City officials are advancing a plan to apply a redevelopment overlay across most of the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area. The proposal would incentivize denser, mixed-use development and establish a more consistent project approval process to attract new investments. ​ However, community leaders believe the rezoning plan threatens North Greenwood’s legacy and undermines generational wealth-building capacity by destabilizing families who have called the area home for decades. The resulting public outcry has led officials to postpone the official review process and conduct additional outreach. ​ Katrina George, program director for local nonprofit Powerful Young Adults, is leading the charge to protect the community’s interests. The lifelong North Greenwood resident was “really disheartened with the fact that I never received any notice of this, and the question became, ‘Who else was not aware that they were trying to rezone us?’” ​ “Concerns about increased taxes, rising costs, and the possibility of eminent domain without fair and just compensation create fear and uncertainty for longtime property owners who have invested their lives into this community,” George said. ​ “This is not just a rezoning issue - this is about preserving a legacy, protecting families, and honoring the history of North Greenwood.” An aerial view of the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area. (Photo courtesy of the City of Clearwater) Over 100 residents signed a petition George circulated in three days. It states that many received notice of the proposed Countywide Plan Map Amendment and Planned Redevelopment District around May 26, less than two weeks before a public hearing, “while others report no notice at all.” ​ The petition, submitted by George on June 1, adds that “North Greenwood residents support revitalization, but not gentrification.” Her family has owned property in the area since 1932, and she serves on Clearwater’s Brownfield Board of Advisors. ​ Residents also requested the postponement of any vote, along with additional public meetings and outreach sessions within affected neighborhoods, verification that all stakeholders have received proper notice, and a comprehensive impact analysis. Their advocacy got results. ​ Within two days, Lauren Matzke, director of planning and development for Clearwater, moved to postpone a Forward Pinellas board meeting on the matter, initially scheduled for June 8. The county’s planning agency will now discuss the redevelopment district overlay on July 8. ​ “We’re ok with the extension they provided,” George said. “We’re putting the word out throughout the community, notifying churches and organizations as to what is going on.” Katrina George, program director for Powerful Young Adults, was raised in the North Greenwood CRA. (Photo courtesy of Powerful Young Adults / Facebook) The city will now host a community meeting to discuss the proposed land-use and zoning changes on June 30 at the North Greenwood Recreation Center. Matzke said officials would also attend another CRA Citizens Advisory Committee hearing. ​ If approved, the Planned Redevelopment District overlay would affect over 490 acres - roughly 58% of the 841-acre CRA. The changes would also allow multifamily, mixed-use, and commercial development on properties previously restricted to low-density residential uses. ​ George, in an email to Matzke, suggested coordinated outreach efforts to ensure everyone can participate in the meetings. She also advocated for mailed postcards that clearly explain the rezoning, highlight positive and negative impacts on property values, taxes, and quality of life, and highlight other pertinent information. ​ “Many of the ideas you identified align with outreach efforts we are already working on,” Matzke replied. “Given the timing of the June 30 meeting, some items will need to be phased into future outreach activities, but we agree that direct communication and broad community awareness are important.” A graphic highlighting the proposed Planned Redevelopment District overlay. (Image courtesy of the City of Clearwater) Matzke said the CRA team will assist with outreach efforts, officials will enhance online information, and her department will provide a hard copy of answers to frequently asked questions at the June 30 meeting. The city is also considering direct mailers “as we move into the next phase of the project and begin discussing the details of the proposed zoning changes.” ​ “Feedback like this helps us strengthen our outreach efforts and identify additional ways to connect with the community,” Matzke concluded. ​ George has also compiled a list of “meaningful and enforceable safeguards” she would like officials to establish before implementing the Planned Redevelopment District overlay. Those include: ​ Property tax stabilization or relief measures for existing homeowners Anti-displacement protections for vulnerable residents, particularly seniors Preservation of affordable housing opportunities Protections for existing small businesses Infrastructure improvements Community benefit requirements for new developments Most residents within the CRA purchased their properties to create generational wealth, George said. She also noted that there is “very limited land” to build new complexes and plazas in North Greenwood. ​ “The only way you can get it done is if you come in and take our land,” George said of redevelopment. “If you’re coming into our community, we want at least five times the value of our home or property.” ​ George, who understands that growth is inevitable, is hopeful that local officials and residents can come to a “best of both worlds” agreement. She urges stakeholders to attend the upcoming meetings to counter the “voices out there that are not looking out for our best interests.” ​ Officials should “start treating us like we’re part of the city” by including North Greenwood residents in the process, George said. “And as a community, we have to band together and let our voices be heard.” For more information on the upcoming community meeting, 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.

A spring sunset at St. Pete Beach. Tourism officials and stakeholders are celebrating a record-breaking “high season” this year. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine.) Pinellas County’s tourism industry set multiple new benchmarks during the lucrative spring season. The resulting economic impact will extend far beyond local beaches and attractions. ​ Visit St. Pete-Clearwater (VSPC) announced on Monday that April’s surge in visitation poured a record-breaking $11.4 million into county coffers through bed taxes, a 6% surcharge on overnight stays. That marked the third time this year that monthly revenue has set a new milestone ​ Pinellas also broke its previous record, set in 2024, for the traditional “high season” that runs from February through April. County destinations attracted 4.7 million visitors and collected $36.16 million in bed taxes during the three-month period. ​ “There are a plethora of ways that our residents, in any community throughout Pinellas County, are benefiting from these visitors,” said Brian Lowack, CEO of VSPC. “They’re creating revenue that gets invested back into local services and projects that our residents rely on.” A graphic highlighting spring bed tax revenue from 2022 through 2026. (Image submitted by Visit St. Pete-Clearwater) The hospitality and tourism sector now accounts for one in every 10 jobs, Lowack said, and generates over $10 billion in annual economic impact. Many businesses could not stay afloat without millions of annual visitors keeping registers ringing, particularly as many residents are still recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. ​ Those hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions pay property taxes that fund government services and initiatives, Lowack explained. The county and its municipalities also use proceeds from the one-cent Penny for Pinellas sales tax to create affordable housing, upgrade infrastructure, and maintain parks - “things that our residents really rely on to enhance their quality of life,” he said. ​ Hospitality and tourism properties businesses contributed nearly $400 million in sales and property taxes last year. That saved each household in the county almost $2,000 in property taxes, Lowack said, a “pretty good deal for our residents.” ​ “Without question,” Lowack said when asked if tourism increases affordability for residents. “It’s almost common knowledge that Florida doesn’t have a state income tax because of tourism.” Pinellas County officials spent $125 million restoring beaches decimated from the 2024 hurricane season. The ambitious, emergency project was primarily funded through bed taxes. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine.) VSPC annually dedicates $3 million in bed taxes to its Elite Event Funding program, which supports events that promote tourism, including St. Petersburg’s MLK Day Parade. “But perhaps most important to a resident, these are some of their favorite events that they get to go to and look forward to every year,” Lowack said. ​ County officials dedicate 60% of bed tax collections to marketing the destination through VSPC. The remaining 40% helps fund capital projects that attract visitors, such as a new Woodson African American Museum of Florida. ​ Lowack called tourism-driven benefits - jobs, tax relief, “world-class” attractions, community events, and renourished beaches - a “win-win for everyone.” He credited the record-breaking spring to a winning marketing formula. ​ Attracting more visitors bolsters bed tax revenue, which VSPC then reinvests in advertising campaigns and projects that promote tourism. The resulting cycle increases economic impacts and enhances the quality of life for residents, Lowack said. ​ “This is the way it’s supposed to work,” he added. “And this is the way it’s working.” 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.

Shundra Allison, owner of Urban Drinkery, has a huge love for mixing spirits, but doesn’t like the taste of alcohol much! (Photo courtesy of Shundra Allison/Power Broker Magazine) In a city constantly evolving with new restaurants and bar concepts, Urban Drinkery has carved out its own lane in St. Petersburg by focusing on something different at 2184 9th Ave South, Suite B in St. Petersburg, two blocks east of the Woodson African American Museum of Florida. For owner Shundra Allison, known affectionately by many as “Miss Urban Drinkery,” the venue reflects her personality and love for bringing people together. “Every first Saturday at Urban Drinkery, we bring the house music culture to St. Pete,” Allison said. “The Tampa House Heads come down and create an atmosphere that’s all about good music.” That commitment to creating an experience rooted in music culture has become one of Urban Drinkery’s defining qualities. “Our DJs have more than 30 years of experience and have worked with some of the biggest names in music, including DJing for Biggie,” Allison said. “They bring an incredible level of talent and history.” Sip and reset at Urban Drinkery The venue’s music-centered events continue throughout the month. Every third Saturday, Urban Drinkery hosts Caribbean Night, transforming the space into an energetic celebration of island culture and sound. “On the third Saturday of every month, we turn things up with Caribbean Night,” Allison said. “There aren’t many places like this here in St. Pete, but we are big on culture.” That sense of culture can be felt in every corner of Urban Drinkery. Allison has meticulously curated the brick-and-mortar venue to feel welcoming and intentional. “Urban Drinkery is the kind of place where you can just sip and reset,” Allison said. Barista Shaila Rowland is proud of the authenticity and fresh ingredients they use at Urban Drinkery. "The Urban Drinkery Light Bite Brunch Menu is Farm to Table. The Farm to Table aspect is really an experience, because we cook, prepare, and serve what's in season. A lot of what's grown in the garden is used; our basil is out of the garden, the eggplant, we have an eggplant soup that is 100% from the garden; the mint we use with our juices sometimes; we have peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers," says Rowland. Born out of the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Urban Drinkery grew from Allison’s personal passion for mixing spirits and creating unique cocktails. What started as experimentation quickly evolved into something much larger for her. She spent countless hours testing flavors, creating new combinations, and sending drinks to family and friends for feedback. The process became both creative therapy and inspiring during a challenging time. Outside seating area that acts as a perfect 3rd space (Photo by Kaylen Ross/Power Broker Magazine) Taking inspiration from Harlem, New York Allison approaches Urban Drinkery with the mindset of an artist and host rather than simply a business owner. This is why travel also plays a major role in shaping her vision for the space. Allison frequently visits New York City, typically traveling there twice a year, where she draws inspiration from the city’s food, nightlife, cultural energy, and everything exciting about New York. From the intimate aesthetics of New York lounges to the community-centered vibe of neighborhood gathering spaces, specifically in Harlem, those influences can be seen throughout Urban Drinkery’s atmosphere. But despite the outside inspiration, Allison remains focused on creating something specially rooted in St. Petersburg. The decoration in Urban Drinkery is heavily inspired by restaurants in New York (Photo by Kaylen Ross/ Power Broker Magazine) Importance of the Deuces Corridor “Urban Drinkery was among the first venues in St. Petersburg dedicated to creating a consistent house music experience centered on Black house music culture and community.” Guests like Mike Milner enjoy mingling with their community and feel like Urban Drinkery provides that safe space for them. "Urban is a great environment, a great experience, a place to be able to network, and have great drinks, good brunch or lunch; overall, a great experience. I've been coming here for five years,” says Milner. He also emphasizes the importance of supporting black-owned businesses in regard to meeting like-minded people and creatives. “It's very important to have a Black establishment so you can meet and connect, be able to discuss issues, mingle with your community, and find out what's going on, and connect. Connection is very important," says Milner. “Being located on the historic Deuces means everything. We’re standing on the shoulders of our people who built this corridor. We want to honor that legacy while helping create the next chapter,” says Allison. “Miss Urban Drinkery” has developed a place where everyone feels welcome. She hopes to one day establish a distillery and create products that celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of our community. The Deuces lunch special sandwich is one of the most popular menu items for quick lunch breaks (Photo by Kaylen Ross/Power Broker Magazine) 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.

Mayor Ken Welch (right) and a new homeowner at a Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside dedication ceremony in South St. Petersburg on June 18. The organization received $482,000 in gap funding for the project earlier this month. (Photo courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) For the first time ever, housing production in St. Petersburg has outpaced demand, according to a report by the City of St. Petersburg. However, much of the city’s workforce cannot afford market-rate prices. ​ Municipal programs have helped 27,806 residents afford or remain in their homes since 2020. St. Petersburg has also seen a sharp spike in investor-owned properties, and property tax reform could kill many of the most successful housing initiatives. ​ An annual update on the city of St. Petersburg’s Housing Opportunities for All plan, presented to city council members on June 11, highlighted those dichotomies. Amy Foster, housing and neighborhood services administrator, began and ended her presentation on a positive note. ​ “I know, as council members, sometimes it’s hard to quantify the work of your policies and investments,” Foster said. “These outcomes didn’t happen overnight, but at the halfway point, I can confidently say that you and Mayor (Ken) Welch are making a difference.” A graphic highlighting housing production in St. Petersburg. (Screengrab courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) The city’s 10-year housing strategy began in 2020. Welch expanded and updated the initiative under the Housing Opportunities for All banner in 2023. ​ St. Petersburg, under a “strong growth scenario,” needed approximately 1,500 new housing units in 2025 to meet demand, Foster said. The city added 2,088, thanks to robust private sector development and municipal efforts, which supported 458 new affordable and workforce units. ​ Demolitions jumped from 243 to 622 in 2025 following an unprecedented hurricane season. The city also saw a 39% increase in housing production, “and for the first time ever, we’ve built more than that demand,” Foster said. ​ She noted that 62% of residents own homes, and values typically range between $300,000 and $500,000. The median rent cost decreased slightly in 2025 to $1,805. ​ Eviction rates remain well below the city’s baseline, established after pandemic-era protections expired. However, someone earning minimum wage - $14 an hour - must work over 90 hours weekly to afford a modest one-bedroom, market-rate rental, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC). A graphic highlighting eviction filings. (Screengrab courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) Councilmember Mike Harting said someone earning $24 an hour would still fall below the area median income. “That is the perspective that this body needs for making decisions as you come and talk to us in the future.” ​ “The number of families your department touches is bigger and more complex than we realize,” Harting said of Foster’s affordable housing efforts. ​ The city, as expected, has seen an influx of investors buying damaged homes in areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Foster said. A heat map also shows a high concentration of company-owned properties throughout a wide swath of South St. Petersburg. ​ “One of the issues that we’ve found in Childs Park, and I’m sure the issue is happening all over South St. Pete, is that a lot of these generational homes are being sold,” said Councilmember Corey Givens Jr. “A lot of them are going into probate (court) and being taken, and a lot of this is an issue that I think we as a city can help fix.” ​ Foster said the South St. Pete Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) funds a program that helps families navigate the probate process - used to validate a deceased person's will, pay off their remaining debts and taxes, and distribute their assets to rightful beneficiaries. She believes the initiative is underutilized. A heat map showing the number of company-owned parcels. (Screengrab courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) Givens said some communities “have a hard time trusting government, especially when it comes to things like properties being taken.” He offered to help Foster’s team refine their outreach approach. ​ The potential loss of property tax revenue, which supports CRAs, is a major concern. Foster emphasized the outsized impact the governor’s proposal, if approved by voters in November, would have on South St. Pete. ​ “The number of homeowners assisted in the CRA alone almost matches the number of homeowners assisted citywide,” she explained. “These outcomes will be decimated.” ​ Givens said many seniors, who can no longer afford to live in their homes, are “excited to see property taxes go away.” City officials must help residents understand the unintended consequences, he added. A graphic highlighting the number of affordable and workforce housing units created, and income thresholds (AMI). (Screengrab courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) St. Petersburg has helped build and preserve 1,248 affordable and workforce housing units since 2020. Another 3,186 are in the construction pipeline. Foster said the majority are new, “and only 15% are preserved.” ​ She noted that 71% of those units are for households earning up to 80% of the area median income (AMI). Foster also expressed confidence in the city achieving its ambitious housing goals by 2030, despite Welch raising the bar significantly in 2023. ​ “When I see this, I see not just progress and great numbers, I see people who are just kicking ass right now with our housing challenges,” said Councilmember Gina Driscoll. ​ Driscoll credited Foster’s administration for identifying new housing opportunities, preserving existing homes, and helping residents solve “at-the-moment problems.” She also believes city officials and stakeholders must do more to mitigate the discrepancy between local wages and living costs. 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.

Embracing Our Differences is officially accepting submissions for its 2027 international outdoor juried art exhibition. Artists, professionals, and students worldwide are invited to submit original, horizontal artwork celebrating diversity, inclusion, and kindness. Fifty selected pieces will be enlarged into billboard-sized displays for the showcase in Southwest Florida, reaching millions of visitors. With three $2,000 "Best-in-Show" cash awards on the line and zero entry fees, this is your chance to use your creative voice to spark global change. The final deadline to submit is July 1, 2026. Click here to apply

AdventHealth is hosting a series of walk-in hiring events. These in-person and virtual sessions offer a fast track to your next healthcare opportunity, allowing you to bypass traditional application delays. Candidates can connect directly with facility leaders, explore personalized career pathways, and interview on the spot with hiring managers. Qualified professionals across multiple clinical and professional disciplines may even receive same-day job offers. Bring your resume and take the next step in your medical career today. Click here to apply

The Citi Foundation has officially opened its 2026 Housing Supply Request for Proposals, committing $20 million to expand affordable housing across the United States. Part of Citi's Blueprint for Housing Opportunity initiative, this program will award $1 million grants to 20 selected nonprofit housing developers. Funding is specifically designed to help community-based organizations overcome financial and operational barriers, accelerate new project pipelines, and preserve existing affordable units. Eligible nonprofits must submit their Letters of Inquiry by July 1, 2026. Click here to apply

From back left: Hillsborough County Commissioners Harry Cohen and Gwen Myers, former Judge E.J. Salcines, and his wife, Elsa, celebrate the reopening of Salcines Park on April 28. The governor’s property tax plan may force officials to eliminate all discretionary spending. (Photo courtesy of the City of Tampa) Proposed property tax cuts could jeopardize parks, aging, and children’s services in Hillsborough County. Hiring freezes, layoffs, and additional taxes and fees are also on the table. ​ Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) funding may be on the chopping block as well if voters approve recently passed property tax reform legislation in November. The plan, championed by outgoing Gov. Ron DeSantis, would increase the homestead exemption from $50,000 to $15,000 in 2027 and to $250,000 in 2028. ​ Hillsborough stands to lose $367 million in annual revenue, according to a report prepared by the Management and Budget Department and presented on Wednesday. County Commissioner Harry Cohen said officials must prepare to make “some very difficult decisions.” ​ “I was flabbergasted by this report,” Cohen said. “This is something that will completely upend the way governments are funded in our state.” A graphic highlighting potential strategies to address the loss of property tax revenue. (Screengrab courtesy of Hillsborough County) The report, presented by Chief Financial Administrator Tom Fessler, was created to help the commission and residents understand how property tax reform may affect county revenues, service delivery, financial planning, and long-term fiscal sustainability. ​ Staff concluded the document by noting that property tax revenue decreased by about 29% during the Great Recession. They believe that the state’s proposed plan would create “similar, but more lasting” impacts on county operations. ​ The legislation also decreases the annual assessment cap on non-homesteaded properties, including condo towers, apartment complexes, businesses, and vacant land, from 10% to 5%. Fessler said that will “further limit growth and ad valorem revenue for the county.” ​ Hillsborough would have to shift resources to fund the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue at current levels, Fessler explained. Those agencies received $1.3 billion in this year’s budget, which accounts for 88% of all property tax revenue. ​ The county would collect $1.13 under the new plan. Cohen noted that would not be enough to cover just two critical services, even if officials “cut everything” else. ​ Fessler said Hillsborough would “probably be able to fund” library system operations if the property tax proposal passes. However, “there would be very little room left” for renovations or new facilities. ​ Commissioners must reconsider proposed budget increases in fiscal year 2027, which begins on Oct. 1. Fessler said utilizing funding reserves could “help spread the impacts out over multiple years.” ​ Hillsborough could “further reduce or eliminate nonprofit funding,” Fessler said. Workforce reductions and compensation freezes may also be needed. ​ A new five-cent fuel tax, a 10% tax on utility bills, and increasing the county’s communication services tax could provide additional revenue, Fessler said, as could increasing parking and building services fees. ​ Reducing or eliminating parks, aging, youth, and other county-provided services is another option. “The legislation, as currently written, has some uncertainty as to whether we can even fund some of those things with ad valorem revenues,” Fessler continued. ​ “We could approach the City of Tampa and talk about whether or not we continue to fund the CRAs within the county.” Another graphic highlighting potential strategies to mitigate the loss of property tax revenue. (Screengrab courtesy of Hillsborough County) At least 60% of voters must approve of the governor’s property tax plan, which would take effect on Jan. 1. Commissioner Chris Boles said he requested the report to understand how the proposal would impact the “free county of Hillsborough, which we’re not, certainly, under this.” ​ “This really makes me think that Tallahassee is turning into Washington - we’re not able to do what we need to do for our residents here in Hillsborough County,” said Boles. “This is too much.” ​ Boles said he hopes that “cooler heads prevail.” Cohen noted that the legislation was passed “literally in 24 hours with no discussion and debate” or opportunity to analyze potential impacts. ​ The surrounding uncertainty “makes it very, very difficult” to make policy decisions “because there is a drastic difference between what we have now and what might occur in November,” Cohen said. ​ Commissioner Joshua Wostal pushed back on those assertions. He said voters will continue to hear “extreme hyperbole about the situation - some pretty flamboyant, bombastic points of view.” ​ Wostal said many of the same officials who previously advocated for incremental tax increases now believe the “world’s going to end” when there is an “opportunity for relief.” He encouraged constituents to “take the government’s opinions with a huge grain of salt, and vote for your wallet.” ​ “I do not think it’s hyperbolic or bombastic to point out to people that there is no possible way to make this work without making major cuts …,” Cohen replied. ​ Commissioner Gwen Myers motioned to hold a budget workshop and further discuss “all angles” in January if the property tax reform plan passes in November. Her colleagues unanimously agreed. 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.

Opportunities for Youth has released a curated list of global programs designed to empower women-led startups, NGOs, and individual changemakers. Featured initiatives include the $100K UNICEF equity-free funding for FemTech solutions, the World Bank's She Wins Climate Acceleration Program, and specialized AI and leadership training. These high-impact funding and mentorship opportunities span across technology, climate action, and education. Whether you are launching a startup or driving local social change, these resources offer the capital and network needed to scale your impact. Click here to apply

Early voting begins August 8th and ends August 16th (Stock Photo/Power Broker News) The City of St. Petersburg is expanding its civic engagement efforts with the relaunch of the “St. Pete Votes!” initiative ahead of the 2026 election cycle, a year city leaders are calling one of the most consequential local election periods in recent history. Building on the momentum of its 2024 rollout, the renewed campaign is designed to strengthen voter education, increase registration awareness, and help residents navigate updated voting procedures. The initiative is led by Mayor Kenneth T. Welch, who emphasized the historical significance of civic participation as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. “2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, a solemn reminder of how far our nation has come and how many people throughout history have fought, struggled, and sacrificed to secure and protect our right to vote,” Welch said. He highlighted the evolution of voting rights through generations. A central feature of the 2026 election cycle in St. Petersburg is its unprecedented ballot structure. For the first time in city history, voters will select candidates for U.S. Senator, Florida Governor, St. Petersburg Mayor, and City Council members all within the same election year, alongside key local referendums expected to shape long-term city policy and development. The “St. Pete Votes!” campaign also focuses on voter readiness. City officials are encouraging residents to review recent changes to Florida election laws, including updates to vote-by-mail procedures and voter identification requirements. Officials stress the importance of checking voter registration status early and understanding early voting options to avoid last-minute complications. Outreach will continue through partnerships with local associations, and residents can find registration tools, sample ballots, and early voting information through Vote Pinellas Election Resources. A video message from Mayor Welch introducing the initiative is also available here: Mayor Welch St. Pete Votes 2026 Video. Mayor Ken Welch encourages voting in new video (Screengrab/City of St. Pete) Organizations and businesses interested in supporting the effort can coordinate with city staff as the campaign continues expanding civic participation efforts across the community ahead of the 2026 elections. Key Dates for the 2026 Elections Primary Election Deadline to register: July 20 Early Voting: August 8 - August 16 Election Day: August 18 General Election Deadline to register: October 5 Early Voting: October 19 - November 1 Election Day: November 3 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 St. Petersburg Arts Alliance has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Historic Manhattan Casino Mural project. Open to professional and emerging artists, this high-profile public art commission offers a $15,000 award, plus a $3,200 material stipend and $400 for selected finalists. The selected artist will design a 14 ft by 23 ft exterior mural on the building's north-facing wall to honor the venue's rich cultural heritage. Submissions must be uploaded online before the July 5, 2026 deadline. Click here to apply

The Hillsborough County Black Chamber of Commerce is hosting a focused strategy session, "Get Grant Ready: Funding Starts with Preparation." Ideal for nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and community groups, this interactive event breaks down what funders prioritize when reviewing applications. Gain valuable insights into building a solid operational foundation, framing impactful proposal stories, and accessing vital funding connections. Space is highly restricted with only 16 seats available, so immediate registration is recommended to secure your spot. Register for the event

The Pinellas County Urban League invites local entrepreneurs and career-driven professionals to join "Make Money Mondays." This monthly virtual business development learning series is designed to help small business owners increase revenue, expand operations, and build long-term sustainable wealth. Sessions focus on practical industry-specific strategies, real-world implementation, and structured accountability. Powered by the Tampa Bay Anchors Urban Alliance, this program connects participants with vital networks and resources needed to move from potential to profit. Take your business or career to the next level. Register for the event

CareerSource Suncoast has opened registration for its CEO-Platform for Success Entrepreneurship Course. This free, 10-week online program features live, interactive classes and personalized one-on-one support designed to help you build your dream business. Whether you are launching a new venture or scaling an existing idea, this proven curriculum provides the tools you need to succeed. Classes officially kick off on August 4th and August 5th, so secure your spot now before enrollment closes. Click here to register

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County and Solita’s House have announced an affordable homeownership opportunity at Ybor Villas. As detailed in IMG_3909.jpg, first-time homebuyers who live or work in Hillsborough County can qualify for a new, 4-bedroom, 2-story townhome with a 0% interest rate mortgage and down payment assistance. Dedicated income-based, special needs, and temporary housing units are available, with construction breaking ground in July–September 2026. Click here to apply

Hillsborough County students in grades 6–12 are invited to make a positive impact and get paid for it! Safe & Sound Hillsborough has officially launched its #SafeSummerSeries social media challenge, encouraging young creators to use their platforms to promote youth safety and community positivity. Every eligible student who submits an original video entry will receive a $25 stipend, plus the chance to win additional exciting prizes. Don't miss this opportunity to amplify your voice, connect with peers across the county, and earn cash in this timely, student-led movement. All submissions must be uploaded by the July 6, 2026 deadline. Click here for more information.

Prominent artist Ya La’Ford and Sean Gibson, executive director of the Josh Gibson Foundation,, at Juneteenth & Negro League Baseball Tribute Night on Friday at Tropicana Field. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) Internationally acclaimed artist Ya La’Ford’s artistic vision and the deep-rooted history of Negro League Baseball combined to create a Juneteenth experience that invited Tampa Bay Rays fans to look beyond the field. ​ On Friday, the team unveiled La’Ford’s limited-edition DUGOUT-47 jersey and hat collection that honors the resilience and contributions of Black baseball pioneers, whose excellence and determination helped shape the sport before integration. She and Sean Gibson, the great-grandson of Negro League legend Josh Gibson, each threw out a ceremonial first pitch. ​ The event blended past and present as Gibson, executive director of the Josh Gibson Foundation, showcased Negro League memorabilia before, during, and after the game against the Washington Commanders. Fans who purchased a special Juneteenth ticket package also received a custom jersey designed by La’Ford. Tampa Bay-based La’Ford noted that she has collaborated with the Rays for over a decade. However, she and team leadership “have been meaning to partners on something more” than youth-focused community events. ​ “This is the best of both worlds because it’s for Juneteenth,” La’Ford told Power Broker Magazine. “So we’re still celebrating community, but with a very powerful pattern that really stands to legacy and the love of humanity, and how we’re able to overcome and be resilient.” Artist Ya La’Ford (second from left) and her family, wearing special jerseys she designed, on the field before her ceremonial first pitch. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) ​The DUGOUT-47 collection was inspired by the legacy of Jackie Robinson, who broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947. La’Ford, who recently represented Tampa Bay at the London Art Fair, has also created designs for Nike and the NFL. ​ DUGOUT-47 is meant to explore the unseen moments behind achievement - preparation, discipline, courage, and belief. According to the announcement, the design reflects how perseverance forges lasting progress long before it becomes visible to the world. ​ “I folded the shape of a heart, and then I folded it around your entire body,” La’Ford said of the design. “So it’s encapsulating the power of connectivity, of bridging love and focusing on humanity, and how we can inspire each other through shape and form and size and space. ​ “No matter where we are in the metaphysics of the universe, we can always find the answer in love.” Artist Ya La’Ford dances with Tampa Bay Rays mascot Raymon before the game. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) ​Gibson traveled from Pittsburgh to participate in the event. His great-grandfather was the undisputed top star in Negro League Baseball throughout most of his career, which spanned from 1930 to 1946. ​ Josh Gibson died from a stroke on Jan. 20, 1947 - about a month after his 35th birthday and three months before Robinson broke the sport’s color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Sean Gibson now works to preserve the legacy of his great-grandfather and other Negro League pioneers. ​ “It’s great that they’re celebrating the Negro Leagues on Juneteenth,” Gibson said of the Rays. “I wish more teams would do a Negro League tribute. For the Rays to step up and do this, especially for a team down in Florida to do this, it’s great.” ​ Gibson also emphasized the importance of including an educational component. He said Florida Negro League teams, the Jacksonville Red Caps and Tampa Rockets, produced “some great players.” Sean Gibson, executive director of Josh Gibson Foundation, works to preserve Negro League Baseball’s legacy. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) ​However, Gibson said the league’s stars still lack the credit they deserve. In 2020, Major League Baseball (MLB) announced that its historical record would include Negro League players. ​ Gibson noted that it took another four years to officially alter historic benchmarks. His great-grandfather now holds six records, and “some people were upset” when the Black superstar’s stats surpassed white icons like Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. ​ “It wasn’t their fault” that Black players were banned from MLB, Gibson said. “They were denied that opportunity.” ​ Gibson believes his great-grandfather would recognize that “some Black players are still going through the same things they went through” a hundred years ago. “There’s still some racial tension, especially right now in these times in America.” Negro League star Josh Gibson most famously played for the Pittsburgh Crawfords and Homestead Grays. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) ​Gibson co-founded the Negro League Family Alliance with other descendants to protect the organization’s legacies, history, and intellectual property while promoting education, sportsmanship, and inclusivity. The nonprofit wants MLB to annually highlight the Negro League’s jerseys, history, and relevance on May 2. ​ La’Ford called art the “universal language of humanity, and one where we can put all people in a space of equality.” She appreciates the opportunity to “highlight the beauties and the wonders of what is right in front of us.” ​ A native of New York, La’Ford realized that baseball can foster community by growing up watching the Yankees. She credited the Rays for continuing to provide a platform that reaches “so many different” cultures, faces, and age groups. ​ “I wish them the luck of the stars, because the things they do behind the scenes are really beautiful,” La’Ford added. “They’ve empowered me as an artist, they continue to empower kids, and, I think, the community as a whole.” Artist Ya La’Ford celebrates a successful ceremonial first pitch. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) 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.

Lakeland Commissioners Stephen Musick (left) and Ashley Troutman at a tense city meeting on Monday. (Screengrab / City of Lakeland) Lakeland’s battle over data center development is reaching a boiling point, with residents demanding an outright ban rather than a one-year moratorium, a temporary pause on new projects. City commissioners revisited the ongoing issue on June 15, but not before some pointed remarks from the public put them on the defensive. While hyperscale data centers are a hot-button topic nationwide, concerns in Lakeland have quickly escalated after a developer proposed “Project Swan” in late May. The project would bring a 600,000-square-foot data center to 60.5 acres of undeveloped land near Old Tampa Highway and Wilkinson Road in West Lakeland. Commissioners will hold a first reading of a moratorium ordinance on July 6. “Putting a moratorium in place allows us to pump the brakes,” said Commissioner Guy LaLonde Jr. “Pumping the brakes on this will allow us to gather all information, and I mean all information. No one is getting money in their back pockets.” LaLonde was responding to comments from the few constituents who attended the Monday morning meeting and spoke in opposition to the project and moratorium. “I take it personal,” he said. “Sometimes I just have enough.” Residents have voiced heavy concerns about severe water and energy consumption, noise pollution, and environmental impacts. Community activist Jaxson Samples called the facilities - increasingly needed to support the explosive growth of modern cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data harvesting - surveillance centers. Samples, speaking during the meeting’s open forum, noted that the moratorium is a temporary pause that allows officials time to review, plan, or resolve issues before resuming an activity. “We want to ban data centers from coming to Lakeland. Period,” he said. “A moratorium creates a loophole for the developers and decision makers to get an edge over the community,” Samples added. “If you are watching this, fight like hell. It’s your God-given right.” Another resident, who said she is known in the community as “mama,” bemoaned a perceived lack of government transparency. She also believes that Senate Bill 484, which becomes law on July 1, gives local governments too much authority to approve or regulate data center projects. The legislation requires data center operators to pay for their own utilities and not shift costs to customers. However, SB 484 does not restrict companies from signing private nondisclosure agreements with state agencies, effectively enabling firms to keep project plans under wraps for up to a year. LaLonde said the bill “does restore the power of authority back to the city and county, but that is for your protection.” He also encouraged residents to speak at city meetings, even if he disagrees with their remarks and believes some are “bat-crap crazy.” “We are citizens, we care,” LaLonde said of commissioners. “No one up here is getting rich, I can promise you that.” A site plan for a proposed hyperscale data center complex in West Lakeland. (Screengrab courtesy of the City of Lakeland) Commissioner Ashley Troutman noted that the discussions surrounding hyperscale data centers are complex. He said stakeholders are all “trying to figure out how to figure it out.” A one-year moratorium, which requires the commission’s approval, will provide officials with much-needed time to understand and address the issues, Troutman said. “Just know that it’s a lot more layered than the word ‘data center.’” “There’s layers to the different types of data centers,” Troutman added. “There’s already data centers in Lakeland that are operating.” He also noted that officials rely on the same resources as their constituents. “We are all in the same boat together, we are all learning together,” Troutman concluded. Commissioner Mike Musick said he has received “hundreds and hundreds” of emails since Kimley-Horn submitted the proposal for Project Swan. The engineering consultancy firm subsequently canceled a development review meeting scheduled for June 3 after receiving 15 initial comments for review from city staff. Lakeland will hold a second and final public hearing on a hyperscale data center moratorium, followed by a commission vote, on July 20. Mayor Sara Roberts McCarley noted the city - and the state - lack established regulatory guidelines. “We’re doing our very, very best,” she said. The issue is not unique to Lakeland. Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Leon, and Nassau Counties, and the City of Zephyrhills, are either advancing or considering data center moratoriums to stall proposals. Musick said he encourages feedback on hot-button topics. He also noted that it “does feel like accusations are being tossed about and fingers are being pointed, and it does hurt, for the lack of a better term.” 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.

Author William Ricker is one of several artists taking part in the 2026 #ArtistsWhoVote campaign by Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project (Photo courtesy of Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project) Join the conversation surrounding voter education and registration! Next Wednesday, June 24th, at 7 PM on Zoom, Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project, Inc. (PDAP) hosts a voter education conversation with the League of Women Voters. PDAP bridges the gap between art, technology, media, and civic exchange through community-focused events throughout the Tampa Bay area. PDAP board member Jake-ann Jones created the campaign during the 2024 election cycle. The #ArtistsWhoVote campaign is an initiative to encourage civic engagement, in which artists share their headshots and a piece of art or a playlist of 10 songs that prompt them to think about power, change, and democracy. Jones said, "Frankly, I was really concerned about voting turnout, and civic exchange is part of PDAP's mission statement. Having conversations with local younger artists who follow us and whom we follow was disturbing, because a lot of them were like, 'poets don't vote,' 'artists don't do politics’.” “They don't have the history, apparently, linking political movements and social activism to art and artists from the beginning of time,” explained Jones. “#ArtistsWhoVote is an initiative to counteract that lack of critical analysis regarding the power of art, the power of our voices as artists." Ty Loyd-Calhoun, artist and author of The Merry Meerkats Go!!, joined the #ArtistsWhoVote because he felt it was “imperative” that there are people in office who fight for the “everyday person.” “I fight for literacy in a nation where rates are dropping fast; I fight for kids to play outside to boost health, communication, and social skills. Having the ability to read and a passion to work together is what I feel needs to be promoted to the youth to grow into strong adults that fight for change,” said Loyd-Calhoun. Ty Loyd-Calhoun is the author of the Merry Meerkats Go!! series (Photo courtesy of Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project) Led by the League of Women Voters, Tanya Landry (President, Upper Pinellas) and Heidi Davis (Co-Chair of Voter Services, St. Pete) will lead the call to provide an overview of the activities each League is undertaking in their communities to encourage voting. “We want to encourage people to not be discouraged by all the noise, we want to make sure they are voting,” said Davis in a graphic LWV has been using to encourage voting in the face of recent laws on redistricting. Topics for the discussion include: Vote411: How to use it and what info is available. Mail-in ballots: Florida voters who vote by mail must rerequest a mail ballot after every general election Make a voting plan Know before you go: Check the dates and locations for Early Voting Overview of what races are on the August ballot (and a preview of the November contest) Redistricting and the Election Integrity Act Poet Davon Roberts and filmmaker Cranstan Cumberbatch, are also part of the #ArtistsWhoVote campaign. “When you vote, you have the right to be heard, [and] you have the right to be seen. Your vote makes a difference in the country and the community, said Roberts. “By voting, you have that right just to make a slight difference with your voice, with your pencil, [and] with your mind.” Davon Roberts is an established poet in the local Tampa Bay arts scene. (Photo courtesy of Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project) “I believe artists have a unique ability to inspire conversation and encourage people to recognize that their voices matter,” said Cumberbatch. “I believe participation grows when people feel informed, valued, and connected. We have to meet people where they are, make civic engagement more accessible, and remind people that their voices and their votes matter.” Filmmaker Cranstan Cumberbatch is a producer, writer, and director of the Sunshine City Film Festival and Black Art and Film Festival (Photo courtesy of Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project) Register and join PDAP for an informative, educational hour on June 24. “Show up for yourself and your community,” said Jones. 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 mayoral candidates, from left: Kevin Batdorf, Jim Large, Maria Scruggs, Charlie Crist, City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, and Mayor Ken Welch participate in a forum on Thursday evening. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) All six St. Petersburg mayoral candidates shared a stage for the first time on Thursday evening. The forum’s format forced them to focus on policy rather than trading barbs, which they did in abundance at last week’s debate. The event, hosted by the League of Women Voters at the St. Petersburg College Gibbs Campus, also featured another notable difference from the first debate, hosted by the NAACP: former Fire Chief Jim Large participated. Approximately 270 people attended the substantive forum and over 150 watched online as Mayor Ken Welch, two-term City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, former NAACP President Maria Scruggs, businessman Kevin Batdorf, and Large fielded questions submitted by residents - without an opportunity for rebuttal. ​ A question on what city services the candidates would cut if voters approve drastic cuts to property taxes kicked off the forum. Crist has pledged to further reduce the rate in St. Petersburg, which already stands to lose roughly $75 million in annual revenue under the governor’s proposal. ​ Crist said affordability is an ongoing issue and advocated for increased transparency. He reiterated that his tax plan would save property owners about $15 million annually. “I think we need to stay within our budget,” Crist said in response to what services he would cut. “We need to reduce property taxes.” From left: Maria Scruggs, Charlie Crist, Councilmember Brandi Gabbard, and Mayor Ken Welch. Each candidate had one minute to answer the same question. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) Welch said he has “already done this exercise” by reducing the city’s property tax rate for three consecutive years. He also believes residents, who frequently advocate for additional funding rather than cuts, should demand an answer to the original question. ​ Constituents regularly request more money for safer streets, affordable housing, homeless services, first responders, and arts programs, Welch said. “That is one reason why I oppose this.” ​ Scruggs, who, unlike at last week’s NAACP debate, did not stand to answer questions, said she would identify waste within City Hall and assess staffing levels. “We got a lot of bodies, but we can’t seem to resolve anything,” she said. ​ Large agreed. He also said the city should take a “top-to-bottom” approach to determine what operations are “absolutely necessary,” and what is simply “nice to do.” ​ Batdorf echoed the previous two assessments. He advocated for the governor’s tax proposal and said 29 city employees earn over $200,000 annually. Gabbard again touted her experience and showcased her knowledge of municipal issues. She pledged to collaborate with the city council and various administrations to “see where we can tighten our belt, but certainly we have done that exercise over the last couple of years.” ​ “At the end of the day, it is going to take a large sum of money to even be able to prioritize public safety in our city,” Gabbard added. “So I will be looking very carefully at how we can continue to fund the essential services.” ​ Safer streets ​ The intersection of proposed property tax cuts and maintaining, or improving, municipal services and infrastructure was a frequent occurrence. However, Crist said he would enforce the laws when asked how the candidates would mitigate the city’s high rate of traffic and pedestrian fatalities. ​ Artificial intelligence could help manage congestion, Crist said. He would also ensure that the police department “doesn’t allow people to run red lights.” ​ Scruggs said she was unaware of the problem. She wants a “better assessment” of the issue before “we start attacking something that may not be as much of a problem as we perceive.” Gabbard noted that an annual, related study, Dangerous by Design, is not new. “Pinellas County has some of the most dangerous roads in the entire country,” she said. ​ St. Petersburg should increase its investment in the Complete Streets program, Gabbard added. “I was endorsed by Activate St. Pete because I believe in people over pavement,” she said. ​ Welch said he has and will continue to increase funding for the Complete Streets initiative, which has shown progress despite the state’s propensity for pedestrian-involved accidents. “But it’s something that, again, will be at risk if we have to reduce what we have available from property taxes.” Batdorf advocated for bicycle-friendly streets and an automated tram service on an extended Pinellas Trail. Large suggested a public education campaign to encourage the proper use of crosswalks. Kevin Batdorf (left) and Jim Large, seated separately, touted their experience as a business owner and longtime fire chief, respectively. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) ​Electricity costs ​ Scruggs said she would have assessed St. Petersburg’s contract with Duke Energy, which ends on Aug. 1, three years ago. The city council approved a $590,000 study to examine the feasibility of establishing a municipal utility earlier this month. ​ “We are now in a situation where we are reacting and not giving us the appropriate timeline to plan,” Scruggs said. Batdorf believes the city wasted $590,000 and said he pays more for municipal water than electricity. ​ Welch noted that a state agency sets electric rates, “and the city’s impact is small.” However, he said officials can push for “more renewable energy options” for residents and lower franchise fees, and “we are doing that now with our MOU (memorandum of understanding) that we’re working on with Duke.” ​ Large said the city should reduce, rather than increase, the size of its government, and instead focus on mitigating “outrageous” water bills. Crist said he sued electricity companies as attorney general and is “prepared to do it on day one” as mayor, before reiterating his plan to cut property taxes. ​ Gabbard, who has wanted to explore the city’s electricity options for years, is the “Dump Duke-certified” candidate. She said. “I make no promises that we will actually move forward with that municipal study … but mostly I believe in due diligence.” ​ Affordable housing ​ Welch reminded attendees that housing affordability has been a priority since his first mayoral campaign. He said the city has built or preserved 1,000 units, another 1,000 are in the pipeline, and administrators have won awards for their innovative efforts. ​ Many residents have expressed concern about continuous housing subsidies, Large said. He and others bemoaned persistent permitting issues, while recognizing that the issue is complex. “We have to make it convenient to build here.” ​ Batdorf said that “if there was a solution, it would have been done.” Gabbard expressed pride in passing a city employee housing assistance program and commitment to “working with our business community to expand programs like that for their workforce.” ​ Crist pledged to speed up the permitting process, “use land and real incentives to require actual affordability,” and “protect longtime residents who are being priced out of homes.” ​ Scruggs said the immediate question “has to be affordable for whom?” Many professionals now live in subsidized housing, and local leaders must collaboratively work to provide a “livable wage.” Councilmember Brandi Gabbard (left) and Mayor Ken Welch again split on the Historic Gas Plant District’s redevelopment process. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) ​The Historic Gas Plant District’s redevelopment ​ St. Petersburg must honor the 86-acre site’s history as a Black haven during segregation, Large said, while ensuring that the “extremely valuable tract of land” benefits the entire city. Batdorf believes that “the fair market should be developing that property.” ​ Gabbard noted that she has led the charge to pause the redevelopment process while awaiting the results of a new study, and many residents wonder if “we should even sell the land at all.” She questioned whether the city should sell smaller parcels and keep properties for city assets. ​ “We have not even begun to answer those questions,” Gabbard said. “So, I’m committed to seeing that study through.” ​ Crist said the Gas Plant should provide high-paying jobs, affordable housing, and anchor institutions that “build an economy for decades,” as officials promised families displaced from the area. He said it takes “somebody responsible to get it right.” ​ The city should “start telling the truth and being clear on who the promises were made to,” Scruggs said of the former African American enclave. She advocated for a strategic plan that encompasses the Gas Plant and South St. Petersburg in its entirety. ​ “The way you honor those promises is to move forward and not delay for another decade,” Welch said. “We plan, and plan, and plan to death.” 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. ​

All photos courtesy of Alexia McKay The Power Broker Media Group - publisher of The Power Broker Magazine and PowerBrokerNews - is pleased to announce the addition of veteran journalist, media strategist, and entrepreneur Alexia McKay to its growing team as Senior Multimedia Producer and News Correspondent. She joins the company with 15+ years in the industry, Alexia brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity we are excited to integrate in our expanding editorial and broadcast platforms. As part of her new role, Alexia will serve as the anchor for Grapevine News, soon to air on the Power Broker’s YouTube channel as a twice weekly video news broadcast, delivering top global, national, and local headlines twice each week. In addition, she will contribute multimedia content, feature stories, interviews, and special reports connecting readers throughout Tampa Bay and beyond. Alexia McKay with gospel artist Tamela Mann and comedian/actor David Mann at the Disney Dreamers Academy in 2025 Alexia McKay with Mickey and Minnie Mouse during a media press trip. Alexia is an avid believer that stories have the power to educate, connect, and create change. "I've admired the Power Broker’s work for years,” says Alexia. “Its founders, including Gypsy Gallardo and Deborah Figgs-Sanders, have not only built a respected publication but have also created a platform that uplifts business leaders, changemakers, and the community. I'm excited to join a team working to build an innovative new multimedia approach to the chronicling community.” Alexia added, “To be in a role that leverages and values my diverse skill set is exciting." Her role with Grapevine News (airing on YouTube), producing and reporting the top global, national and local headlines twice a week, will draw from Alexia’s work in broadcast journalism. A Tampa native and graduate of Florida A&M University, she started her career at WCTV Eyewitness News as a television producer. From there, she moved back to her hometown where she honed her skills working at WTSP News Channel 10, WWSB in Sarasota and Spectrum Bay News 9 in St. Petersburg. In 2019, Alexia expanded her professional focus beyond television and entered the world of freelance journalism and digital media. She joined award-winning journalist and FAMU alumna Jenise Griffin at the Florida Courier and Daytona Times as an editorial assistant and contributing reporter. Alexia McKay with actress Kyla Pratt on the set of a cover shoot for RoyalTee Magazine. A media entrepreneur at heart, Alexia is also the founder and editor in chief of RoyalTee Magazine, a lifestyle and culture publication that celebrates Black culture on a global stage. Her passion for purpose-driven storytelling also led her to create The Crowned Assignment, a maternal wellness initiative focused on supporting mothers through healing, self-care, advocacy, and mental wellness. Through the organization and its Crowned Motherhood platform, Alexia works to create safe spaces and resources for mothers navigating the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and everyday motherhood. She is the author of The Crowned Motherhood Healing Coloring Book and Reflective Journal, an adult coloring book and journal designed to encourage reflection, healing, and self-care among mothers. Alexia’s entrepreneurial portfolio also includes Rattler Girls Rock, a growing lifestyle brand celebrating Historically Black College and University (HBCU) sisterhood, leadership, and excellence, particularly among women connected to Florida A&M University and the broader HBCU community. Alexia has also built an impressive portfolio in public relations and media consulting. Working independently and with agencies, she has secured more than 3,100 media placements for clients across industries including business, technology, healthcare, hospitality, law, and nonprofit organizations. Alexia McKay hosting a media training class for the Tampa Organization of Black Affairs (TOBA). Throughout her career, Alexia has remained committed to using media as a tool for empowerment and community engagement. Whether producing television news, reporting on local issues, launching independent media ventures, or advocating for maternal wellness, her work consistently reflects a dedication to storytelling with purpose. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alexia is a devoted mother of two daughters whom she often credits as her greatest inspirations. Her experiences as a mother have shaped much of her advocacy work, including her efforts to promote maternal wellness, mental health awareness, and community support for women and families. Alexia McKay speaking as a panelist at the Building A Boss summit in 2025. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists, where she formerly served as president and vice president. Now, as she joins the Power Broker team, Alexia is eager to help shape the next chapter of the publication's growth while continuing to serve audiences through meaningful journalism. "At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to telling stories that matter," Alexia said. "I am excited to join a team that values impactful journalism, community engagement, and innovation. I can't wait to get started." Please join us in welcoming Alexia McKay to the Power Broker Media Group. Reach her at alexia@powerbrokermagazine.com

Pinellas County Commissioner Rene Flowers (left), incoming president of the Florida Association of Counties, and her daughter, Kyesha, after a tribute to her election and service on Tuesday. (Photo submitted by Dr. Rene Flowers) During a moving tribute that highlighted her compassion as much as her policy expertise, Pinellas County colleagues celebrated Commissioner René Flowers, who is preparing to lead the Florida Association of Counties. ​ A visibly emotional Flowers was in shock over the unannounced bipartisan support, which concluded a four-hour meeting on Tuesday. Family, friends, and sorority sisters waited secretly in overflow seating until the moment arrived. ​ Flowers will take over as president of the nearly century-old Florida Association of Counties (FAC) on June 26. Commission Chair Dave Eggers called her election a “historic and meaningful achievement” and a “big deal” for local and statewide stakeholders. ​ “Today is a very special day for the Pinellas County Commission, Pinellas County as a whole, and frankly, for county government across the state of Florida,” said Eggers. ​ “Dr. Flowers’ election as FAC president is not merely ceremonial - it means commissioners from every corner of Florida, from the Panhandle to the Keys, have placed their trust in her leadership, judgment, and vision for county government.” Supporters waited for several hours to participate in Commissioner Rene Flowers’ tribute on Tuesday. (Photo submitted by Dr. Rene Flowers) Established in 1929, the association’s primary mission is to protect home rule - the idea that local officials should make the decisions that impact their communities. FAC also represents county interests before the state legislature in Tallahassee by advocating for public policies that improve public service and protect residents from the financial burden of unfunded mandates. ​ Each member of the seven-person commission took a moment to honor Flowers, the lone Democrat. “Oh my Lord,” she exclaimed when Eggers broke the news. ​ Perhaps the most poignant moment came after the remarks, when Commissioner Chris Latvala shared a previously untold story that transcended government. He said Flowers, during the darkest days of a recent life-threatening health crisis, uniquely offered to drive to Gainesville to comfort his wife, a roughly five-hour round-trip. ​ “There weren’t too many people who made that offer,” Latvala said. “That says something about the person you are. You know I love you, my whole family loves you, and not only is Pinellas County lucky to have you, but the state of Florida is soon lucky to have you, too.” ​ Before his testimonial, Latvala credited Flowers’ advocacy on issues that directly impact families, including affordable housing, community development, public health, and equity and opportunity. Her local priorities will now extend to over 22 million Floridians, he said. ​ Commissioner Vince Nowicki noted that nearly two decades have passed since a local commissioner has led the association. Flowers’ presidency will reflect her dedication to public service and the reputation Pinellas has earned as a county willing to “lead, collaborate, and innovate,” he said. Flowers has served on FAC’s executive committee for two years, most recently as first vice president. She has also worked extensively on the nonprofit’s Community & Urban Affairs and Health, Safety & Justice policy committees. ​ “What makes this achievement especially remarkable is the breadth of experience Dr. Flowers brings to the role,” said Commission Chris Scherer. She previously served on the St. Petersburg City Council and Pinellas County School Board, and has earned her Advanced County Commissioner II designation, the highest level of professional education offered by FAC. ​ “Dr. Flowers has consistently shown up - not just for Pinellas County, but the people of Florida and all of its counties,” Scherer added. “Her leadership is about service, not titles, and we’re all proud of you.” ​ Commissioner Kathleen Peters called Flowers a thoughtful and compassionate leader whose reputation extends far beyond her policy expertise. She also highlighted the “amount of time, commitment, travel, relationship building, and hard work” it took for her colleague to earn the confidence and trust of statewide peers. “She leads with intelligence, dignity, preparation, and authenticity,” Peters said of Flowers. “She understands how to build consensus without ever losing sight of principle. And while today’s recognition belongs to you, it is also a proud day for Pinellas County.” Commissioner Rene Flowers (left) with Esther Sanni, president of the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP. (Photo submitted by Dr. Rene Flowers) In her own remarks, Flowers turned the spotlight back to those who shaped her journey. She began by thanking God and credited her family for their support, despite years of missed milestones. ​ Flowers recognized Lynn Harrell-Johnson, president of the National Council of Negro Women St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section, and Esther Sanni, president of the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP. She reflected on the importance of maintaining long-standing relationships and constructive dialogue, regardless of occasional ideological differences. ​ “I’ll be honest, I was unsure how this was going to go,” Flowers said of the commission’s tribute. She also noted that “I get support from my colleagues more often than not.” “I am grateful, because I actually enjoy coming in here,” Flowers continued. “Whatever we’re talking about, it affects us as well. But we do it because we love our community, and because we have said that we want to serve. So, thank you all for doing this for me.” A congratulatory graphic displayed during the surprise ceremony. (Photo submitted by Dr. Rene Flowers) 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.

Two local restaurateurs and a real estate investor are purchasing The Chattaway for $1.8 million. The 75-year-old restaurant will remain mostly unchanged. (Photo courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) Mark Ferguson didn’t want to see The Chattaway, a South St. Petersburg staple since 1951, meet a wrecking ball. So, he joined a new ownership group that will maintain the city’s longest-running restaurant. Ferguson, owner of Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill, and a group of local investors will purchase the property for $1.8 million. He expects the sale to close on Aug. 4. “The place has been there for 75 years - I don’t want to see it become townhouses or anything else,” Ferguson said. “I thought it was important to buy it, make it better, and have a place where St. Pete residents can go for the next 75 years.” Mark Ferguson, owner of Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill. (Photo by Mark Parker / Power Broker Magazine) Ferguson partnered with developer Cullen Mahoney and John John Delladonna, owner of Shrimpy’s Waterfront on St. Pete Beach, to purchase the property at 358 22nd Ave. S. The same family that has owned The Chattaway since 1951 announced they were “done” in March. However, Ferguson noted that the restaurant was for sale for approximately a year. “I was looking at buying it, and I just drug my feet,” he said. Mahoney didn’t want to demolish the building, which opened in 1921 and initially housed a general store, but was unsure of what to do with the property, Ferguson explained. The two eventually made a deal and brought in Delladonna. ​ While the group will now offer more seafood, Ferguson said most everything else will remain unchanged at The Chattaway. “The same name, the same burgers and stuff - we’re just going to improve the property.” ​“It’s a community asset,” Ferguson added. “We want to honor the family that has been there for 75 years, and we want to keep it a St. Pete staple.” Jillian Frers, 93, became co-owner in the late 1970s when her then-husband, the late Everett Lund, purchased the restaurant from his mother. She has operated The Chattaway with her son, Greg Kitto, and daughters ever since. Ferguson, a Lakewood High School alum, was raised nearby in South St. Pete. He also spent nearly two decades teaching at Southside Fundamental Middle School, now Midtown Academy, about a mile away from the Chattaway. “Greg (Kitto) and I grew up together,” Ferguson said. “He just wants to retire. Just come back and say hi … he wants to welcome people.” The Chattaway is known for its eclectic, vibrant courtyard and burgers. (Photo courtesy of The Chattaway) ​ The building’s pink-and-green paint job will remain, as will its quirky outdoor courtyard with dozens of planters fashioned out of old bathtubs. “We want to keep this a nice, quaint little place, where everybody knows your name,” Ferguson said. His sports bar opened 34 years ago, and Ferguson noted the importance of preserving an establishment’s identity while also ensuring it can survive in a rapidly evolving city. The Chattaway’s new owners will install a point-of-sale system and are applying for a liquor license. Some renovations are likely, “but we’re not sure until we get in there and take over,” Ferguson said. His group plans to host a grand reopening celebration in late August. When asked what he would say to residents fretting over The Chattaway’s future, Ferguson said they could “sit easy - we’re going to keep it the same thing it is and make it better for a long time to come.” “And it’s because of them that we’re keeping it,” he continued. “We had so many people reach out to us and say, ‘Please save The Chattaway.’” 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.

Unlock your potential at the 28th Annual Showcase of Services on August 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM at The Coliseum in St. Petersburg. This free premier community event connects you directly with second-chance employers, workforce training, housing assistance, healthcare, and legal aid. Bring your ambition and take advantage of free on-site resume assistance and printing to ensure you stand out. Whether you are seeking a new career path, financial stability, or family resources, this showcase provides the vital tools and connections you need to build a successful future. Click here for more information and to register.

ArtWalk on The Deuces returns Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Deuces Corner Park. The Deuces Live is inviting local artists, creative vendors, authors, and makers to showcase their work and connect with the community during this vibrant cultural evening. Participation is completely free, and the event will continue every second Saturday. Spaces are limited and subject to approval, so secure your spot to help keep local arts and creativity alive. Register as a Vendor Register as an Artist

Advantage Insurance Solutions is hosting a free Financial Wellness Workshop on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Featuring sessions at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, this timely event covers life insurance, retirement planning, and expert policy reviews. Whether you want to protect your assets or prepare for the future, you will gain practical strategies to make informed decisions for your family. Light refreshments will be served, but seating is limited. Secure your spot today to safeguard your tomorrow. Register for the event

R’Club is hosting a major hiring event this June 18th and 19th at our Administrative Office, and we are making job offers on the spot. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families, this is your chance to secure an exciting new role immediately. Come prepared to interview with your resume and a valid I-9 identification document in hand. Apply online before you arrive to fast-track your interview. Click here to apply

St. Petersburg Fire Rescue is hosting a pop-up water safety event tomorrow, June 18th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the James Weldon Johnson Community Library. Families can pick up free child life jackets, books, and crucial water safety resources while supplies last. Attendees will also receive free CPR class vouchers to help keep their loved ones safe this summer. If you can't make it, look out for additional pop-up giveaways across the city in the coming weeks. Visit the library tomorrow to secure your safety gear.

Sen. Rick Scott (podium), Sen. Ashley Moody (left), and several other political and Jewish leaders speaking against upcoming Kanye West concerts in Tampa from the Florida Holocaust Museum. (Screengrab via Facebook) For U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, the question of whether Kanye West should perform in Tampa isn't a referendum on free speech - it's a matter of moral duty. Scott stood between a boxcar that once transported Jews to death camps and a Danish fishing boat used to smuggle them to safety as he delivered a blunt message to the Tampa Bay Sports Authority from the Florida Holocaust Museum on Monday: Don’t fund antisemitism. West, now known as Ye, has back-to-back concerts scheduled at Raymond James Stadium later this month. U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, former governor and St. Petersburg mayoral candidate Charlie Crist, Holocaust survivors, and several other political and Jewish leaders joined Scott at the press conference in St. Petersburg to denounce the controversial rapper’s upcoming appearances. Ye drew widespread outrage for selling T-shirts with swastikas, declaring that he was a Nazi, and releasing the song “Heil Hitler” last year. “If we don’t stand up and vocally reject the hate that Kanye West pushes - if we don’t stop this concert - we’re telling everyone that antisemitism is ok,” Scott said. “No, it’s not ok.” Ye won multiple Grammys for music praising Jesus for his antisemitic behavior. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons) In 2025, Ye was banned from Australia following his tribute to Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler. He was barred from entering the U.K. in April due to backlash over his planned set at the subsequently canceled Wireless Festival. Scott and many other stakeholders are hoping for a similar response in Tampa. “Raymond James Stadium is a publicly funded venue,” he said. “Taxpayers should have a say in what happens.” However, Ye initially announced the June 26 show on May 22 and later added a second date due to ticket demand. Scott also noted that elected officials are responsible for how public money is spent - “full stop.” “So why on earth would we use tax dollars to fund someone who has called himself a Nazi and praised Adolf Hitler?” Scott added. “Look at the boxcar … people were crammed into these, worse than cattle, on their way to death camps. Many suffocated in boxcars like these before they even made it.” The sports authority is a publicly funded agency, and tax dollars helped finance construction of Raymond James Stadium. While concert tours and promoters pay to use the self-sustaining venue through rental fees and revenue splits, the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County partially cover operating deficits and renovation costs. Scott first called on the sports authority to cancel the concert in a letter dated June 4. Aaron Terr, director of public advocacy for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, subsequently told Spectrum Bay News 9 that the senator’s missive “raises serious First Amendment concerns." "The taxes are funding a venue that hosts a variety of art and entertainment - not just that which meets government officials' approval," Terr said. "So, the fact that a venue is supported by taxpayer dollars doesn't mean that officials get to ban performers based on disapproval of their views." Ye won a Grammy for his uplifting single “Jesus Walks” in 2005. He also took home the Best Contemporary Christian Album award for “Jesus is King” in 2021. In January, the oft-troubled artist took out a full-page ad in The Wall Street Journal to apologize for his antisemitic behavior. Ye blamed a brain injury, bipolar disorder, and extensive manic episodes for his actions. “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite,” he wrote. “I love Jewish people.” Moody highlighted her support of free speech on Monday. She and several others also noted a recent surge in antisemitic attacks and admonished the sports authority for not explaining how the concerts were “evaluated, approved, and prioritized, and where it went off the rails.” Several speakers noted that antisemitic rhetoric and attacks have increased in recent years. (Photo courtesy of Sen. Rick Scott’s office) The sports authority issued a new statement following the press conference. “We condemn antisemitism from any source,” it began. “However, we also respect free speech rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution, even when we disagree with that speech. In addition, no taxpayer money is being used for staging the Ye concerts. To suggest otherwise is false.” The museum will offer free admission on June 26, 27, and 28. Former interim CEO Michael Igel, the nephew of Holocaust survivors, offered a message to concert ticketholders. “I believe that buying a ticket does not automatically mean you agree with antisemitism,” Igel said. “I know many of you are simply looking forward to a night of music with your friends. But I ask you, I implore you, to consider the unique power you hold in this moment.” 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.

Pastor Philetha Tucker Johson (second from left), president of the Tampa Bay Juneteenth Coalition, solemnly watches as Benjamin Haith, designer of the national Juneteenth Flag, presents the colors at Tampa’s annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony. (Photo courtesy of the City of Tampa) As the national Juneteenth Flag was recently unfurled in Tampa, its creator, Benjamin Haith, stood alongside local leaders to remind a new generation that the story of liberation is still being written. ​Haith, an 83-year-old community activist and Army veteran, traveled from Connecticut to Tampa to participate in the special ceremony on June 12. The event, held at the City Center on Hanna Avenue a week before the Juneteenth holiday, also featured a wellness fair, live music, free food, and appearances from the Blake High School ROTC, Ms. and Little Ms. Juneteenth pageant winners, and the Buffalo Soldiers. ​However, Haith, who created the national Juneteenth Flag in 1997, was the star of the show. Pastor Philetha Tucker-Johnson, president of the Tampa Bay Juneteenth Coalition, called the cultural icon a visionary whose design transformed the holiday into a “global visual declaration that freedom belongs to all people.” ​“When the creator of the Juneteenth Flag steps into Tampa, history is not just visiting our city - history is standing in our presence,” Tucker-Johnson said in a prepared statement. “Ben Haith did not simply create a flag; he created a symbol that carries the heartbeat of freedom, resilience, remembrance, and unfinished purpose for generations across America.” Benjamin Haith designed the flag in 1997. Juneteenth wouldn’t become an official federal holiday until 2021. (Photo courtesy of the City of Tampa) The red, white, and blue flag, like the holiday, commemorates June 19, 1865. That is the day when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that slavery, a 246-year-old scourge, was abolished. ​President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. However, because the Union Army lacked a strong presence in the westernmost Confederate state, slave owners widely ignored the order for over two years. ​Texas became the first state to make Juneteenth a state holiday in 1980. In 1997, Haith, also known as “Boston Ben,” recalled his family sharing Juneteenth stories during childhood visits to his aunt's farm. He began researching what was then an unofficial holiday and realized it needed a symbol. Juneteenth became an official federal holiday on June 17, 2021 - over 24 years after Haith raised the first flag. Stakeholders must now work to preserve the significance of Freedom Day, he told WTVT at the Tampa ceremony. "We become ambassadors for the spirit of Juneteenth to continue our ancestors' journey," Haith said. From left: City Councilmember Luis Viera; Councilmember Naya Young; County Commissioner Gwen Myers; Candice Cowen, community development specialist for the city, and mayoral candidate Gary Hartfield at the event. (Photo courtesy of the City of Tampa) After the event, several local leaders expressed their appreciation for Haith’s visit and the ceremony’s purposefulness on social media. Tampa Fire Rescue officials called his “powerful” presence a “reminder of the importance of honoring history while continuing to move forward as a community.” Businessman and mayoral candidate Gary Hartfield also noted that Juneteenth - and the event - were more than a celebration of history. “It is a reminder of how far we’ve come, the work that remains, and the responsibility we all share to ensure future generations understand the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs that helped shape our country,” he wrote. City Councilmember Luis Viera said the event was a “great celebration about what is right with our country” that honored “more than 350,0000 American soldiers for our Union/Federal Government who died and gave all in the Civil War to save the Union and emancipate 4,000,000 enslaved souls.” “Juneteenth is a top reminder of how what is right with America can heal what is wrong with America,” Viera added. Benjamin Haith (center), designer of the national Juneteenth Flag, smiles during presentations at Tampa's annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony. (Photo courtesy of the City of Tampa) Local leaders and Ms. and Little Ms. Juneteenth pageant participants pose with Benjamin Haith (third from back left), designer of the national Juneteenth Flag, at the event. (Photo courtesy of the City of Tampa) 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 countdown is officially on, and registration is open for our annual Juneteenth celebration! Join us for an unforgettable day of culture, connection, and community while supporting incredible local vendors, organizations, and creatives. Whether you want to attend with family or participate as a vendor, there is a place for you here. Product vendor fees are just $20, and information vendors register completely free via email. Secure your spot before registration closes on July 16 at 11:59 PM. Click here to register today.

The 2026 National Black and Latino Economic Summit is officially open for registration. For eighteen years, this premier platform has united policymakers, developers, and financial leaders to combat the racial wealth gap. This year’s theme, “Capital In Motion,” marks a strategic shift from conversation to measurable deployment. Join hundreds of leaders to foster partnerships and accelerate investment in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Don’t miss this opportunity to turn capital into lasting, scalable economic outcomes. Register for the event

From left: Maress Scott, founder of Quis for Life; Brian Lamar Stokes, a local therapist and social worker; B.J. Daniels, former NFL player and mental health advocate; and Antonio Brown, founder of the Competitive Readers Coalition, discuss mental wellness on Saturday at the third-annual Six Thirteen Community Block Party. (Photo submitted by Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County) The silence surrounding male mental health is often a survival mechanism for those plagued by trauma. A growing coalition of community leaders hopes to mitigate that stigma before it results in additional deaths. ​Concerned stakeholders from across Tampa Bay gathered on Saturday to address the youth mental health crisis - nearly one in four teens have considered suicide - and a persistent rash of youth violence. The event, organized by Keshawn’s Korner and the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County, brought families together for a day focused on prevention, healing, and hope at the Lake Vista Recreation Center in South St. Petersburg. ​Riquesha Fuller founded Keshawn’s Korner, a local nonprofit named after her son, who died by suicide in 2023 at 21 years old. The annual Six Thirteen Block Party continues honoring Keshawn Fuller’s memory. ​Saturday’s third-annual event featured mental health and suicide prevention resources, wellness activities, community support services, and a special panel discussion on teen violence. Maress Scott, whose son Marquis was murdered in 2019, was one of four speakers. ​“When a person values his life and himself, he’ll value other people,” Scott told Power Broker Magazine. “So, events like these are very important to recreate that sense of community. That really does help a young person trying to find his identity.” ​Riquesha Fuller founded Keshawn’s Korner, a local nonprofit named after her son, who died by suicide in 2023 at 21 years old.(Photo submitted by Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County) Scott founded the nonprofit Quis For Life after his son fell victim to gun violence at 20 years old. He believes that feeling valued by the surrounding community can help struggling youth, who typically return the appreciation. ​A burly former college football player, Scott said the event's keynote discussion emphasized the need for men of all ages to express their feelings. He was joined onstage by B.J. Daniels, a former University of South Florida standout who went on to win a Super Bowl; Brian Lamar Stokes, a therapist and social worker; and Antonio Brown, founder of the Competitive Readers Coalition, a nonprofit that empowers youth through literacy, mentorship, and education. ​The panelists, in response to questions from the crowd, told male attendees that they “have permission to cry” and feel the same emotions as their female counterparts, Scott said. He also noted the impact of unresolved trauma. ​“We are all walking around with nervous systems that have been affected, one way or another, by what has happened in our environment, whether it’s violence or domestic problems coming up in the home as a youth,” Scott explained. “Subconsciously, we have a nervous system that’s responding to stimuli.” ​He stressed the importance of regulating rather than responding with emotion, which leads to arguments, violence, and death. Scott said sharing your thoughts and feelings also enables others to do the same, underscoring the benefits of community conversations like the one held on Saturday. ​Jerome Kynard, who oversees the Juvenile Welfare Board’s Fatherhood Collaborative, helped organize the event. He said the engaging panel discussion highlighted the role that men, particularly fathers, play in supporting youth mental wellness. ​“With the recent issues with all guns in the community, the ‘Teen Takeovers,’ and senseless shootings, I just thought it was really important to raise awareness about men’s mental health,” Kynard said. “And the role that fatherhood plays in gun violence in our communities … so we can at least begin a conversation or initiate some kind of change.” Jerome Kynard (second from left), coordinator of the Fatherhood Collaborative, with other Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County staff members and Ricquesha Fuller (third from left), founder of Keyshawn’s Korner. (Photo submitted by Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County) ​The panelists, each with differing experiences and backgrounds, shared similar stories regarding the intersection of mental health, suicide, and violence, Kynard said. He, like the panelists, encourages men to embrace therapy. ​“If there’s anything I can say, it’s talk to someone to make sure your mental health is in check before you make rash decisions,” Kynard added. “What you’ll find is that having a person you can talk to, that you build trust with, really makes a difference.” ​Scott echoed that sentiment. He said many people have undiagnosed mental health conditions, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from adverse life experiences. ​While he preached love and forgiveness after his son died, Scott secretly blamed himself, he said. “Not understanding what is happening to you can be torture in itself - and it could also be something that keeps you alone and ashamed to share it, to the point where you might think, unfortunately, that the only way out is to take your life.” ​Scott, who thought he needed to “save everyone else’s kid because I lost my own,” found strength through friendship and his faith. He now works to provide hope through Quis for Life. ​The best and worst thing about the nonprofit, Scott said, is its ongoing relevancy. The title for his annual gun violence awareness walk on Sept. 19 is Pain Across the Bay, which signifies the number of affected families from throughout the region who are searching for support. ​“There are a few of us who have been in it for a period of time and found a way to cope with the loss,” Scott said. “You need someone who’s been there. You need someone to show you what you can do next, and how you can survive.” If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, immediate help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential, 24/7 support. Maress Scott, founder of Quis for Life, will honor Tampa Bay youth lost to gun violence on Sept. 19. (Image submitted by Maress Scott) 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.

Pat Mack (left), founder and CEO of analytics firm PVM, with Yolando Goodloe, government contracting consultant for the Florida APEX Accelerator at Pinellas County Economic Development. Mack is among local business leaders who have embraced artificial intelligence. (Photo courtesy of PVM) A groundbreaking research initiative in Tampa Bay will help determine if artificial intelligence, often considered a great equalizer, is mitigating racial and economic gaps or widening entrepreneurial divides. ​Power Broker Media Group has enlisted USF’s Muma College of Business, the Pinellas County Urban League, the CDC of Tampa, Deuces Live, and other partners, to take an in-depth look at how small businesses are adopting AI. The extensive project’s centerpiece is a survey targeting entrepreneurs across the eight-county Tampa Bay region. ​Researchers plan to discern whether AI is democratizing access to new business capabilities or creating a two-tier economy that amplifies existing disparities. Despite the high stakes, community-level data on adoption, specifically among Black entrepreneurs, remains scarce. ​“In order to make sure that Black entrepreneurs can take advantage of the opportunities that this technology offers, we need to have a better understanding of where they are,” said Dr. Han Reichgelt, professor of information systems at and associate director of the School of Information Systems at USF. “Are they already using it? If they’re not using it, what are the main obstacles? ​“We need to understand to what extent there are unique challenges for Black entrepreneurs in adopting this technology, and that’s what this survey will help us achieve.” ​Reichgelt previously worked with Gypsy Gallardo, CEO of Power Broker Media Group, and others, on St. Petersburg’s landmark Structural Racism Study. Reichgelt said he found the 12-week AI research project, the first of its kind in Tampa Bay, intriguing. ​The research team plans to secure at least 100 completed surveys from Black entrepreneurs, alongside a comparison cohort of 60 other business owners. They will then benchmark that data against AI firm Anthropic’s Economic Index, which tracks national and statewide adoption patterns. Dr. Han Reichgelt, associate director of the School of Information Systems at USF, and a multinational student research team working on the AI survey and other analysis for Power Broker Media includes members from India, Yemen, Pakistan, and Spain. (Photo submitted by Shreya Kalra / USF Muma College of Business) ​Reichgelt noted that AI will likely provide early adopters with a competitive business advantage. “If there turns out to be major obstacles that are specific to Black entrepreneurs, then it is incumbent upon us to make sure … we help get them ready to adopt the technology, as well,” he said. ​“Certainly, for smaller businesses, I don’t know that we’re going to find a significant difference between Black and other entrepreneurs," Reichgelt added. “It is an open question - we don’t have a particular hypothesis.” ​Successfully adopting AI tools requires time, money, and effort. Reichgelt said those hurdles could impede utilization for any small business owner, regardless of their race or ethnicity. ​Researchers believe the study and survey - open to businesses with up to $25 million in annual revenue - will contribute significantly to emerging literature on AI, entrepreneurship, and economic equity. Reichgelt noted that Anthropic has sponsored some research on the technology’s adoption, “but as far as we know, those studies have never focused on Black entrepreneurs." ​“We’re going to find interesting stuff,” he pledged. “And hopefully we can get a few academic publications out of it as well.” ​The project will also generate actionable knowledge on how to design AI literacy programs and where subsidized access to tools will have the greatest impact by highlighting which segments of the Black business community need the most support. Local entrepreneurial leaders can then use the study’s findings and recommendations to accelerate adoption as a competitive equalizer. ​Dr. Cynthia Johnson, director of Pinellas County Economic Development, said understanding the technology is critical for small business owners. She also emphasized the importance of "thoughtful and intentional” adoption. ​Johnson noted the inherent biases within AI, which learns from scraping historical human data. While the technology can increase efficiency, it could also damage an entrepreneur’s brand, she said. ​However, AI can increase access to capital and a small business owner’s confidence in their financial acumen, Johnson added. A responsible approach to adoption “can be extremely beneficial,” she said. ​“We have so many resources to help small businesses be responsible in their utilization of AI,” Johnson said. “I don’t think that sitting on the sidelines and ignoring AI as a tangible opportunity for their business would be the most prudent thing to do.” ​The research project will explore specific AI applications and concerns. Reichgelt said the adoption of any new technology will likely result in job losses, which are already occurring in many large tech companies. ​He is also convinced that, after some initial upheaval, AI will create new business and job opportunities. “There are going to be some losers, but there’s going to be some winners, as well,” Reichgelt said. ​“I want us to be well,” he said of the impending technological shift. “Once you have identified a potential problem, then you can start thinking about how you're going to solve it.” To participate in the survey, access it 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.

CEO of Pinellas County Urban League, Nikki Gaskin-Capehart. (Photo by Kaylen Ross/ Power Broker News) As the Pinellas County Urban League (PCUL) prepares to celebrate its milestone 50th anniversary in 2028, the organization is “looking back” to move forward. This Juneteenth weekend, PCUL invites the Tampa Bay community to the Sankofa Freedom Conference, a two-day event designed to blend the celebration of heritage with the practical tools necessary for community transformation. The term sankofa in from the Akan language of Ghana, and translates “go back and get it,” a shorthand for learning from the past to build a brighter and stronger future. "Sankofa means to me honoring that rich history and past that we have in our community as we look forward to our future," says Nikki Gaskin-Capehart, President and CEO of the Pinellas County Urban League. For Gaskin-Capehart, the event is deeply personal, particularly its day-two location at the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg. "Being here at USF St. Pete, especially for me, is important because it honors a lot of my past, having been a double graduate. It’s perfect for us to bring together what we're doing at Pinellas County Urban League, specifically honoring the past pioneers and shoulders that we stand on and trailblazers as we move forward towards our vision." Joy as Resistance and Practical Empowerment The conference is built on a philosophy that celebration and education are not mutually exclusive. Building on the success of last year’s Juneteenth event, which Gaskin-Capehart describes as "joy as resistance," this year’s conference aims to heighten that energy. "It was community building," she recalls. "Why not take it to the next level with the Freedom Conference, teaching the community the importance of building generational wealth while we're wrapping our arms around each other, while we're having a good time, while we're building collective power." Central to this year’s mission is the focus on financial health and physical well-being. The conference seeks to provide specific tools for land ownership and urban agriculture. "What I really hope to achieve with our financial empowerment goal is giving our community some very specific tools that they need to be able to purchase land to be able to secure long-term generational wealth for their family," Gaskin-Capehart explains. She notes that many community members already possess expertise in agribusiness, and this event provides an opportunity to connect those skills to physical health and long-term stability. The Weekend Schedule: A Fusion of Culture and Learning University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus (Photo by Kaylen Ross/Power Broker Magazine) Friday, June 19, 2026 – Sankofa Freedom Fest This unique experience will feature a Southern Soul Trail Ride and line dancing led by the legendary DJ Cleve and The TNT Steppaz. The festivities kick off on Friday evening from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Pioneer Settlement. Attendees can experience the "Sip. Savor. Vibe." atmosphere while witnessing agribusiness demonstrations that highlight the community's agricultural roots. Saturday, June 20, 2026 – PCUL Honors Sankofa Brunch The focus shifts to the USF St. Petersburg Student Center on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The morning begins with intensive workshops covering Financial Empowerment, Housing & Community Development, and Land Ownership. A highlight of the day will be the "Food is Medicine" cooking demonstration featuring Joshua Carter, Executive Chef of The Vinoy Hotel. The event culminates in the Honors Empowerment Brunch (11:30 AM – 1:00 PM), showcasing businesses from the Next Level Urban Alliance. Tickets and Community Impact The Sankofa Freedom Conference offers two ticket tiers. General Admission ($75 for single events or $125 for a two-day pass) includes food and drink tickets along with access to all sessions. VIP tickets ($125 for single events or $200 for a two-day pass) offer expanded food and drink options, priority seating, and access to the exclusive VIP Trail Ride Pre-Show Kickback. PCUL members and donors can contact membership@pcul.org to receive a $25.00 discount code. Beyond the excitement and education, participation in the conference directly fuels the mission of the Pinellas County Urban League. Proceeds support programs that impact over 11,000 clients and community members annually, resilient social enterprises, and changing lives across Tampa Bay. "You absolutely will enjoy every minute of it," promises Gaskin-Capehart. "It will expose you to a level of Black excellence and renewed focus for our community that I think we all need right now. Come out, feel empowered to make the connections you need, and know that you have the support behind you to build generational wealth." To secure your spot, purchase your tickets here. Gaskin-Capehart encourages guests to dress to impress in sophisticated Southern Soul style and be part of a movement that is energizing lives for the next 50 years. 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 City of St. Petersburg is hiring a Special Projects Coordinator to oversee vital initiatives within the Stormwater, Pavement, and Traffic Operations Department. Earning up to $117,013, this high-impact supervisory role drives project management, GIS coordination, and data analytics from design to completion. If you have a passion for public service, a background in project leadership or construction administration, and are ready to step into an emergency-critical role that shapes our community's resilience, we want to hear from you. Applications close June 29, 2026. Click here to apply.

The City of Tampa is hiring a full-time Community Development Technician to assist with municipal grant management and housing programs. Earning up to $92,518 annually, this professional role involves administering crucial HUD funds, monitoring compliance, and collaborating with local non-profit agencies to support housing, public services, and homelessness initiatives. Ideal candidates have a bachelor's degree in a related field and three years of community development experience, or an equivalent background. Click here to apply.

CareerSource Tampa Bay and United Way Suncoast are hosting "Coffee & Careers" on June 30 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Hillsborough County. Local job seekers can grab a fresh cup of coffee while receiving complimentary, one-on-one resume evaluations from professional career coaches. The event also features free professional headshots for LinkedIn, virtual reality career exploration, and professional clothing assistance. This community event is entirely free to attend. Participants must create an Employ Florida profile prior to arrival. Register for the event.

Prioritize your mental health with The Centre. We provide professional, judgment-free counseling for individuals, couples, and families navigating life’s stressors—from relationship struggles to grief and anxiety. Our expert counselors offer both in-person and virtual sessions, with up to 12 sessions available at no charge for those who qualify. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or the StrongMom’s Initiative for new parents, you don't have to face your journey alone. We are here to empower, educate, and elevate our community. Request your free counseling session here.

Daystar Academy and United Way Suncoast are hosting a free professional development open house this Wednesday, July 8th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Lealman Exchange. Designed for anyone entering the workforce or changing careers, this community event provides immediate access to mock interviews, professional career coaching, and direct connections with actively hiring employers. To ensure participants look and feel their best, the event also offers free haircuts and no-cost interview attire. Drop in at 5175 45th Street North in St. Pete to take your next professional step. Register for the event.

The Pinellas County Tax Collector’s Office is seeking a self-motivated Endpoint Analyst to join its in-house IT team. This entry-level position plays a vital role behind the scenes, administering mobile device management platforms, managing software deployments, and delivering exceptional technical support. The role offers a competitive salary of $68,000 to $70,000 annually. Qualified candidates must possess a valid Florida driver's license alongside a mix of customer service experience, office automation familiarity, or relevant business or computer coursework. Click here to apply.

The James B. Sanderlin Neighborhood Family Center invites community members to a Volunteer Orientation this Thursday, June 18, at 2335 22nd Avenue South. Celebrating 35 years of service, this event offers a vital opportunity to meet the team, explore impactful programs, and discover meaningful ways to support local children and families. Whether advocating for youth development or strengthening community resources, every volunteer drives measurable change. Register for the event by calling 727-321-9444 ext. 0 or emailing social@sanderlinfamilycenter.org.

Attorney Ben Crump speaks about his book, “Worse Than A Lie,’’ with WFLA’s Deanne King at Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Tampa on June 8. PHOTO BY ALEXIA MCKAY/FLORIDA COURIER “What’s worse than a lie? It’s telling the truth and no one believes you.” Ben Crump recounted the words of wisdom his grandmother spoke to him during a conversation and book signing on Tuesday night at Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Tampa. The famed civil rights attorney is currently on a national tour for his first fiction novel, “Worse Than A Lie.’’ The fiction thriller follows Black civil rights attorney Beau Cooper as he seeks justice for a Black ex-police officer who was shot and killed by white officers in Chicago. Read the full story.

Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders (third from right) presented several community stakeholders with Distinguished Citizen Awards on Thursday for their role in making St. Petersburg’s Hometown Haulers program a state-recognized success. (Photo courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) A first-of-its-kind recovery initiative that turned disaster into opportunity by funneling $1.6 million directly into the hands of local small businesses and residents continues receiving state and local acclaim. ​On Thursday, St. Petersburg officials recognized several of the over 100 people who made the Hometown Haulers program a resounding success following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The city also recently received the 2026 Governor’s Hurricane Innovation Award for embracing the community-led initiative. ​The grassroots program not only accelerated the city’s physical cleanup - impromptu crews hauled 5,382 truckloads of debris - but also served as an economic engine for many of those affected by the 2024 hurricane season. Nancy Dunham, one of multiple community leaders who helped launch the initiative, said the resulting income likely saved at least one life. ​Dunham, founder of Fancy Nancy Professional Services, explained that “one of the Hometown Haulers came up to me and told me that before the program was created, they were literally 30 minutes from taking their life.” The participant, then behind on rent, was able to earn enough money to “still be that man of the household.” ​“So, I just want you to know that you guys literally saved a life,” Dunhaman told city officials. “At that moment, they had a sense of pride - they had a sense of belonging.” Nancy “Fancy Nancy” Dunham poses with a picture of her award at City Hall. (Photo courtesy of Nancy Dunham / Facebook) ​Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders presented Dunham and several other stakeholders with Distinguished Citizen Awards. She noted that Dunham reached out to Gypsy Gallardo, CEO of Urban Market Analytics and publisher of Power Broker Magazine, to highlight several small-business owners with trucks who wanted to give back to the community. ​At the time, Helene had just devastated St. Petersburg, and Milton, then a Category 5 storm, was barreling toward the area. Figgs-Sanders said she, Dunham, Gallardo, Dr. Kanika Tomalin, CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, Nikki Gaskin-Capehart, CEO of the Pinellas County Urban League, and Carl Lavendar, then the city’s chief equity officer, began discussing how the community could help clear debris. ​“This is our Dunkirk moment,” said Gallardo, referencing civilian efforts to rescue stranded Allied troops from the French seaport during World War II. “Carl (Lavendar) and I pushed for the mayor to abandon formal requirements and get trucks out on the streets ASAP.” ​Mayor Ken Welch was unsure if the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would reimburse the city for the Hometown Haulers program. However, he felt that quickly launching the initiative was the “right thing to do.” ​The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg immediately provided $100,000 in seed funding, which helped assuage some initial concerns. Participants earned $300 per load. Community members who participated in the Hometown Haulers program earned a total of $1.6 million. (Photo courtesy of Nancy Dunham / Facebook) ​Tomalin said the foundation was “very privileged and honored” to support the Hometown Haulers. She believes the program highlights the “power of philanthropy, the importance of public-private partnerships, and the strength of community when we come together around a shared aspiration and the common goal to care for one another.” ​“We look forward to working with our community, not only in times of crisis, but also in times of strength,” Tomalin added. “So that we can continue to build a stronger, brighter, more equitable community that makes all of us who call this beautiful city proud.” ​Amber Boulding, emergency management manager for St. Petersburg, said the state’s Innovation Award recognizes new and creative approaches to hurricane preparedness, response, and recovery. She credited the city’s Economic Development department for turning an idea into a functioning government program. ​Boulding said stakeholders ensured the initiative met federal guidelines. Those efforts have paid off, as the city “anticipates full reimbursement as the review process continues.” ​After the meeting, Gaskin-Capehart expressed excitement for the ongoing interest in the Hometown Haulers program. She also noted that several community leaders were already collaborating on hurricane preparedness and response plans. According to the city, program participants completed 5,382 hauls and established a “scalable model for community-driven disaster recovery. (Photo courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg) ​Gaskin-Capehart said the Next Level Urban Alliance, the Urban League’s entrepreneurial network, helped haulers obtain business licences and provided other administrative services. Dunham continues to partner with the organization. ​The state and local recognition “speaks to the importance of doing something that’s a little more innovative and not the normal cookie-cutter response” from governments, Gaskin-Capehart said. She credited the community’s “multiplier effect” for hastening debris removal collection while supporting local entrepreneurs who needed the work. ​“Many times it takes our community lens to have a longstanding impact,” Gaskin-Capehart said. “Sometimes there’s just as much capacity in the community to get things done as there is with the municipalities.” ​On Thursday, Councilmember Copley Gerdes, who helped secure a temporary debris collection site, said the Hometown Haulers program is now a model for other cities. Councilmember Gina Driscoll expressed gratitude for Figgs-Sanders’ efforts and is “so glad that our city and everyone involved has been recognized for their innovation in a time of crisis.” ​“It’s not that often that leadership at the state level actually likes what we’re doing in St. Petersburg,” Dricoll said. “So, this really means a lot.” 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.

One thing about Naturi Naughton-Lewis is that she is always evolving. And in many ways, most of us have evolved with her. We’re talking to our millennial ladies, the same ones who had 3LW posters hanging on bedroom walls next to B2K and later made Power part of their Sunday night self-care routine. For more than two decades, we’ve watched Naturi grow from singer to actress to Broadway, producer, wife, mother, and entrepreneur, continuously redefining what success looks like on her own terms. Today, that evolution extends behind the camera. Alongside her husband, producer and entrepreneur Two Lewis, Naturi is building a legacy through storytelling and ownership. Together, the couple produced the film The Tropic Sun and His Eyes, which recently premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. Read the full story.

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is seeking dedicated professionals ready to make a real impact by joining its award-winning team. At PSTA, employees enjoy more than just a paycheck. The organization offers comprehensive health coverage, tuition-free college degree programs, and clear pathways for career advancement. Whether candidates are veterans, skilled technicians, or aspiring leaders, PSTA provides the tools and supportive culture necessary to help them thrive. Applicants can build a stable, rewarding career that truly moves the community forward. Click here to view current openings and apply.

Students at Academy Prep Center of Lakeland participate in a lesson on vision science. (Photo submitted by Kimberley Couts/Tampa Bay Rays) ​Academy Prep Center of Lakeland students traded in their typical curriculum this week for unique lessons on the science behind baseball - led by the Tampa Bay Rays. ​The team’s Science of Baseball program, now in its fifth year, offers a fun and engaging way to supplement traditional classes at Academy Prep campuses in Lakeland, Tampa, and St. Petersburg. Staff members spend five days at each school providing underserved middle school students with STEM education that encompasses subjects such as geometry, physiology, and statistics. ​Rays staff members have taught over 5,600 total hours to more than 400 students since the program’s inception in 2022. Vinsha Sarpeshkar, the team’s vision science coordinator, explained the intersection of eyesight and thought processing on Tuesday. ​“To me, it’s bringing the classroom into the real world,” Sarpeshkar said. “We always sit in front of books, trying to figure out how this is going to be relevant. We’re now applying this to something that is fun, that they do for enjoyment.” Vinsha Sarpeshkar, vision science coordinator for the Tampa Bay Ray, helps a student with her augmented reality goggles. (Photo submitted by Kimberley Couts/Tampa Bay Rays) ​Understanding the science behind baseball can mean the difference between winning and losing a game in what is now an analytics-driven sport. The Rays have earned a reputation for innovating on and off the field, which helps compensate for having one of the lowest payrolls in the major leagues. ​Sarpeshkar said his lesson was based on a magic trick that involved anticipation, contrast sensitivity, and depth perception. “The ability to bring those three skills together allows us to pull off the greatest magic in all of baseball, which is hitting a home run.” ​Winter, a 7th-grade student, said she could apply the lesson to daily life by correctly distinguishing the distance between two objects, “even if one seems bigger and the other one seems smaller.” ​“My favorite thing about what I learned today is probably the fact that you can tell where the ball is going based on how it’s spinning,” she added. ​Angelo, also in 7th-grade, said he learned about the “computation” behind the “magic of baseball. As someone who plays the sport, his favorite aspect of the day’s lesson was realizing the importance of analyzing a pitcher “even before he pitches the ball.” ​Angelo answered correctly when asked how long a batter has to make a decision on if, when, or where they should swing after the ball leaves a pitcher's hand. “About the blink of an eye,” he replied. “So, like 400 milliseconds.” The Science of Baseball’s overarching goal is to make STEM education engaging for youth. (Photo submitted by Kimberley Couts/Tampa Bay Rays) Academy Prep is a tuition-free, private middle school dedicated to inspiring and empowering economically disadvantaged students. The nonprofit institution offers a supportive environment for students who may not succeed in traditional academic settings. ​Academy Prep’s overarching goal is to help underserved youth become future community leaders through rigorous programming and ongoing graduate assistance. At a 2025 event on the St. Petersburg campus, Gina Barkett, head of school, said the Science of Baseball initiative fosters enthusiasm for STEM education. ​“You’re always looking for opportunities to show children how real-life experiences impact them when it comes to math and science,” Burkett continued. “A lot of times, they don’t see that in the classroom.” ​Sarpeshkar echoed that sentiment on Tuesday. This is his third year participating in a “great” program that he has “always wanted to do from the get-go.” ​His lesson starts with something “very simple,” the ability to see, and then highlights how “our eyes and brains work together in us to achieve a goal,” Sarpeshkar explained. ​“We can actually apply this to something that is fun. And to me, seeing that realization in the kids’ eyes is the best thing that we can ask for.” 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.

Kevin Daves (left), the developer behind 1000 North Sarasota, and the brand’s most prominent co-founder, Michael Jordan. (Photo submitted by Alex Elshimy/1000 North) A luxurious private club and restaurant co-founded by basketball icon Michael Jordan is proving to be a slam dunk, as 1000 North is already expanding in downtown Sarasota before opening its doors. ​Under construction on the ground floor of the BLVD tower at 520 N. Tamiami Trail, 1000 North’s celebrity backers also include golf legend Ernie Els, tennis star Serena Williams, and prominent broadcasters Ahmad Rashad and Bryant Gumbel. While the members-only club will not welcome guests until October, the development team recently closed on an adjacent property to the east, according to Chief Operating Officer Alex Elshimy. ​Elshimy said the parcel, at 1290 Boulevard of the Arts, will help 1000 North accommodate a somewhat surprising clamoring for $6,000 annual memberships. The acquisition will add 10,500 square feet to the club’s previously planned 13,000-square-foot location. ​“This additional space was not part of the original plan, but became a strategic opportunity to accommodate the club’s rapid membership growth and evolving demand,” Elshimy told Power Broker Magazine. ​“Membership is more than access - it is an entry into a refined private community built around exceptional hospitality, meaningful connections, and elevated living.” An overhead view of the piano bar. (Rendering submitted by Alex Elshimy/1000 North) ​The flagship 1000 North location opened in Jupiter in 2017. Jordan lives nearby in Palm Beach County. ​However, the global superstar serves as a founding member and silent investor in the ultra-exclusive brand rather than a spokesperson. Jordan became familiar with Sarasota in 1994 during spring training with the Chicago White Sox as part of his short-lived foray into professional baseball. ​When asked if Jordan would make appearances at 1000 North, Elshimy coyly replied that “given his involvement and enthusiasm for the project, it’s certainly something members are looking forward to.” ​Access and immersion are part of the ambience at 1000 North. A Concierge will assist members beyond the club by providing "privileged access to premier dining, cultural and social experiences, and bespoke travel worldwide,” according to its website. ​Additional services include chauffeured rides to and from the club and arrangements for private yachts and jets. “This offering represents one of the most exclusive lifestyle and social club experiences in Sarasota,” Elshimy said. A cocktail lounge and social hub. (Rendering submitted by Alex Elshimy/1000 North) ​The club will feature French tableside service - a choreographed display where dishes are finished and assembled next to diners. Members can expect a menu that focuses on prime steaks, seafood, seasonal ingredients, and vintage wines from a private cellar. ​Located in Sarasota’s Arts District, 1000 North will offer private dining rooms, a wine lounge, a larger cocktail lounge upstairs, and personalized wine and liquor lockers. Membership also includes “thought-provoking talks, intimate salons, a lively piano bar, and culinary collaborations,” the website states. ​Members will see lighting that evolves throughout the day, a quartzite bar top with green veining, and 2.1 miles of walnut millwork - “equal to the distance from the club’s doors to St. Armands Circle,” according to a recent press release. ​The club will also feature a fully embedded sound system with no visible speakers. A Bluetooth system that accommodates up to 2,000 devices will allow guests to pair their earbuds with televisions. ​Backup internet and generators will ensure members never lose connectivity, and that wine rooms maintain an ideal temperature in any weather. Elshimy said the experience will deliver “lasting value and distinction.” ​The project’s development team, led by Kevin Daves, is still finalizing a total cost estimate, Elshimy said. He also noted that expanding north of Sarasota, including to Tampa Bay, “remains a possibility as the club grows.” ​For now, Elshimy said 1000 North welcomes membership inquiries from residents of St. Petersburg and Tampa. For more information, visit the website here. The street-level commercial space in the BLVD tower that will house 1000 North. (Photo courtesy of 1000 North) The development team expects to open 1000 North in October. (Rendering submitted by Alex Elshimy/1000 North) 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 St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP is challenging local healthcare providers to go beyond routine reviews of racial discrimination claims that often mask deeper systemic failures. ​Branch President Esther Sanni first formally communicated concerns to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital last week after several community members found an All Children’s contractor’s social media comments offensive. The remarks stated that those participating in “teen takeovers” should be bribed with bananas. ​“The reference to bananas has long been associated with racist stereotypes and imagery historically used to demean, dehumanize, and mock Black people and people of African descent,” Sanni wrote. “As such, many residents have interpreted this statement as racist and harmful.” Her letter to Alycia Schulhof, CEO of All Children’s, also noted that the public comments contradict the hospital’s commitment to embracing diversity and inclusion. Sanni concluded by respectfully requesting leadership to review the matter “in accordance with its policies, values, and expectations for those affiliated with the organization.” ​Schulhof replied that she was aware of the social media comments and shared the community’s “deep concern.” She said All Children’s has an “established and rigorous process for addressing allegations of discrimination and harassment.” ​The contractor was barred from working at the hospital, Schulhof said, but the hospital must “defer to his employer regarding an investigation and any further action.” Sanni told Power Broker Magazine that he is no longer employed. ​A day following Schuhof’s response, the NAACP was made aware of a separate incident involving a registered nurse. Tamiko Keaton worked for Bayfront’s Babyplace facility, located inside nearby All Children’s. ​After filing several formal complaints regarding staff treatment, patient safety, and racial hostility, Keaton was terminated. “They fired her, and then have been blackballing her since,” Sanni said. Tamiko Keaton, a labor and delivery nurse, says she can no longer find a job in Tampa Bay. (Photo submitted by Tamiko Keaton) ​Keaton, who now works in California despite still renting a home in St. Petersburg, said she began receiving unsafe assignments in 2023. Mental health challenges stemming from the death of a patient’s baby ensued. ​Written reprimands for missing work followed. “That was legitimate, everybody was calling off work,” Keaton said. “I was having issues with the fetal demise.” ​She started filing written complaints regarding the alleged mistreatment, including racial tensions. The situation came to a head in February 2024, when a fellow employee, who already made Keaton uncomfortable, taped a “Black face” placard on a medication room door. The image (below) is of a black heart-shaped character with white eyes, a wide, white-outlined mouth, a red protruding tongue, and red hands. ​The display remained in the oft-visited nurses' station throughout February - Black History Month. Sanni and Keaton believe it resembled a historically racist minstrel caricature. ​Keaton said she walked down several halls to see if there were other black hearts, but that was the only one. “When I saw it, I knew exactly what it was. Immediately. And she signed her name on it.” ​“They said they investigated it,” Keaton said of that and other formal complaints. “I did not have a clue. I knew they were talking about me. Nothing was done.” The heart remained in place throughout February despite Tamiko Keaton’s concerns. (Photo submitted by Tamiko Keaton) ​She was terminated two months later due to alleged complaints from physicians, coworkers, and patients. Keaton calls it retaliation. ​“I would love to be able to go to sleep in my own bed,” she added. “But I can’t get a job there. The recruiting people stopped even calling me, because I guess it got back to them.” ​In a letter dated June 5, John Moore, president of Bayfront Hospital, told Sanni that he is familiar with Keaton’s allegations, which were previously investigated and reviewed. “Consistent with our policies and our obligations to employees, patients, and the community, we will further review the claims you raised through our established processes,” he wrote. ​“Because personnel and investigative matters involve confidentiality considerations, we are limited in what we can disclose regarding any review of actions taken.” ​Sanni said recent incidents, including one involving Empath Health, highlight some “real issues in healthcare” and treatment of employees within the industry. “Maybe now is the time to really be intentional and shine a light on that.” ​“I think what happens is they only address things when it’s brought forward ,” Sanni continued. “In particular, Johns Hopkins - they feel like everything has been handled. The individual wasn’t an employee. But we are consistently getting more and more details about people who are experiencing discriminatory practices.” ​However, she also believes that “true community advocacy” from united organizations has and can continue to make a difference. Sanni encourages people with similar issues to tag the NAACP in their social media posts so the organization can "investigate, research, and address it as needed.” ​​ 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.

A sign advertising “easy living” sits atop a parcel of land that many stakeholders believe holds unmarked graves. (Photo courtesy of Aileen Henderson) A Tampa architect who once promised to protect a historic cemetery has received the city’s blessing to build homes on what many consider sacred ground. Concerned residents are now rallying to stop construction. ​Marti-Colon Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of the city’s Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican, African American, and Afro-Caribbean pioneers. In 2019, architect Patrick Thorpe bought two acres of the site off Craigslist for $9,500. ​Thorpe pledged to create a nonprofit to help care for the West Tampa cemetery at 3110 Columbus Dr. A for-sale sign on his parcel, since separated from the main burial grounds by a white fence, now advertises two unbuilt homes in a “prime location.” ​For years, stakeholders have wondered if the property was home to unmarked graves. The city acknowledges that ground-penetrating radar (GPR) found 16 anomalies with grave-like patterns in 2024. ​However, excavation work was never done to confirm whether the anomalies are human remains. Officials approved plans to divide and develop the parcel in February, despite denying a previous request in 2021. ​For years, Aileen Henderson, founder of The Cemetery Society and a fifth-generation Tampa native, has led the growing charge to save the property from development. She said historical records, the number of unmarked graves, and unresolved questions regarding past relocations “all point to the need for extreme caution, professional archaeological review, and no ground disturbances until the burial concerns are properly addressed.” ​"He knew it was a cemetery," Henderson said of Thorpe. "He said it would never be developed because he was going to protect it. And then he took it to the next level.” Ground-penetrating radar found 16 anomalies, many in the shape of graves. (Image submitted by Aileen Henderson) ​In 1895, what was then the City of West Tampa purchased the land for Marti-Colon Cemetery. The site has been split and changed hands several times throughout the decades. ​Hillsborough County property records have historically listed the use for Thorpe’s parcel as “cemetery.” That has recently changed to “vacant residential.” ​Henderson provided several corroborating documents, including the GPR report. She and her group’s plight has also caught the attention of State Rep. Fentrice Driskell and Rep. Danny Alvarez. ​Driskell, in a letter to the city dated March 13, said she “recognizes the complexity of land-use decisions.” She also noted that when credible concerns regarding historic cemeteries or potential human remains arise, “it is important that all appropriate precautions and review processes are followed to protect both cultural heritage and public trust.” ​City Attorney Scott Steady, in a response letter dated March 25, emphasized that a private owner has the legal right to develop their property, provided it is consistent with current zoning. He said there is no clear evidence proving that anomalies found in the GPR study are related to graves or the adjacent cemetery. ​However, given the study’s results and the parcel’s proximity to Marti-Colon, the city stipulated that Thorpe must immediately cease construction and notify a building official “if any human remains are discovered during any site work.” ​“It’s totally up to the private landowner whether or not they want to allow the land to be investigated, whether or not they want to reveal the results of that investigation,” Driskell told Power Broker Magazine. “That puts people like Aileen (Henderson) in a really tough situation, because doesn’t she have the right to know where her loved ones are buried?” ​A subsequent letter from Alvarez, dated June 1, states that Marti-Colon represents an “irreplaceable piece of Tampa’s cultural and civic heritage.” He noted that a historical marker erected in 2025 “acknowledges that the cemetery’s complex histories and undefined boundaries have given rise to concerns about burials located outside its currently defined borders.” ​Alvarez said the permit condition to cease construction if human remains are uncovered “depends entirely on voluntary disclosure” by Thorpe, who has the “greatest financial incentive to continue construction.” ​“The city should consider what oversight, if any, ensures that the condition is more than an acknowledgement on paper,” Alvarez added. A graphic highlighting the location of the anomalies. (Image submitted by Aileen Henderson) ​Officials again balked. In a response letter dated June 3, Assistant City Attorney Cate Wells said they cannot make substantial changes to building specifications once a permit is issued. ​She cited Senate Bill 180, adopted in 2025, which prohibits local governments impacted by hurricanes from enacting more restrictive or burdensome building procedures until Oct. 1, 2027. “While the city is extremely sympathetic to the concerns expressed by families connected to the cemetery, the city’s ability to act is limited.” ​City Councilmember Luis Viera, in response to the lawmakers’ letters and online pressure, has called for a briefing from Tampa’s attorney on June 18. “It’s important for people to know what the city can and can’t do legally, so as not to create false expectations,” he said in a social media post. ​Henderson warns that the city is ignoring its "sordid history" regarding the treatment of historic burial grounds. Officials began relocating residents of Robles Park in 2019 after discovering the public housing community was built atop the former Zion Cemetery - the first built for African American residents. ​Henderson said an independent study has listed 1,000 unmarked graves at Marti-Colon. “These are the folks that built Tampa,” she said. “It was a diverse set of people.” ​Owning private property doesn’t exempt someone from laws, Henderson said. She highlighted five state statutes that, in part, prohibit knowingly disturbing burials, allow local governments to protect abandoned or neglected cemeteries, and mandate conservation of archaeological resources. ​Henderson believes the statutes are meant to proactively protect graves, which contradicts the city’s after-the-fact permit stipulation. “I got involved because I felt nobody was really watching over what was happening to our walking museums, because that’s what they are,” she said. ​Driskell has repeatedly introduced potential policy solutions. She said the most recent proposal would grant conservation easements to landowners, allowing them to sell their development rights to the state. ​The legislation, if passed, would mitigate property owner concerns “about the diminishment of value when they discover a cemetery,” and allow community stakeholders to “get some finality and closure, and understand where their loved ones are buried.” ​For now, Driskell believes those invested in Marti-Colon can find a compromise through further diplomacy. “I’m finding that you have to push - you have to ask, you have to fight for this and try to figure out if anything can be done,” she said. “I’ve been fighting for cemetery legislation for over six years, and we’ve made really great progress,” Driskell added. “But there’s still more to be done.” 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.