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The decline is Black voter registrations is worst in St. Petersburg, but affects all of Pinellas County Most readers have already heard about the body blows suffered by Black and Democratic voters in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais late last month. In Florida, that devastating loss was accompanied by a successful sneak attack — led by Gov. Ron DeSantis and backed by the majority-Republican legislature — to further gerrymander the state’s congressional districts. Political strategists are now questioning whether an anticipated blue wave (and the hopeful results of recent special elections) will be enough for Democrats to effectively battle back in this year’s midterm election. It’s possible, but to prevail in Florida, Democrats will need a wholly different approach than the one in evidence, especially for engaging Black voters. I will have more to say on that in the months ahead. For now, this is an urgent warning to leaders in my home county: Black voter registrations have reached a generational low in Pinellas County, and in its largest city — St. Petersburg — where a plurality of the county’s Black population resides. Since the 2020 general election, Pinellas has lost nearly 18,000 registered Black voters (down from 61,000 in October 2020 to about 43,400 in April 2026) — a 29% drop. Though other counties suffered losses too, the decline was more severe in Pinellas. Statewide, the registered Black voter population shrank by 8% between the 2020 and 2024 presidential elections. In Pinellas, the figure was a staggering 21%. The news is even worse in St. Petersburg. The city has lost one-third (33%) of its Black registrants since the 2020 election, a loss of 12,300 eligible voters. *Data are from October 2020, October 2024, and April 2026 book closing reports by the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections What accounts for the loss? One factor in the decline is the Black “brain drain” trend documented by the Power Broker in recent years. Between 2014 and 2024, St. Pete lost 10% of its African American residents. While Pinellas County’s Black population grew by 7%, that significantly lagged the state’s 19% increase over the same period. But the bigger factors — by far — are the intentional efforts of state lawmakers to purge voter rolls; the lackluster engagement strategies of both major political parties over the past several cycles; and — mirroring national trends — a rise in disaffected and unengaged voters, particularly among younger generations. What this means for the midterms and beyond The dramatic shrinkage of the Black electorate should alarm anyone counting on African American and Democratic voters in Pinellas as part of their formula for success this fall. The battle over the newly-minted Congressional District 16 is a case-in-point. The new boundaries severed South St. Petersburg — the largest Black population concentration in Pinellas — from district 14, which spanned two counties. The community was absorbed — along with most of St. Petersburg — into a sprawling territory that encompasses parts of six counties. Overnight, the district covering South St. Pete went from a 57% Democratic majority in the 2024 election to a 58% Republican majority, according to Dave’s Redistricting. At the same time, the district’s Black population share fell from about 17% to 12%. There is a potential silver lining for Black and Democratic voters, which I will cover in a separate article. But for the purposes of this piece, recognize that Democrats are staging an uphill battle for District 16 without the full fighting strength of the party’s most strident supporters. And because the Pinellas part of District 16 is home to about 80% of its total Black voting age population — according to my back-of-the-envelope analysis — the loss of Black voters in the county could spell a resounding defeat for the Democrat who wins the August primary. Beyond the near-term practical considerations, the nose dive in Black voter registrations should be a five-alarm fire for community leaders who understand the power of the vote to shape life outcomes. Several community organizations are fielding initiatives to rev up voter engagement for the midterm. The Power Broker Magazine will chronicle their efforts in the months to come. With information or perspective on this timely topic, please reach me at gypsy@powerbrokermagazine.com. Table 1: Change in Black voter registrations October 2020 through April 2026 Oct of 2020 Oct of 2024 Apr of 2026 # Change 2020-2026 % Change 2020-2026 Pinellas 61,266 48,648 43,416 -17,850 -29% St. Pete 37,179 28,146 24,875 -12,304 -33% % in St. Pete 61% 58% 57% 69%

Nearly 400 people attended the “Ocean of Support” fundraiser for the USF College of Marine Science on Friday evening at the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub. Photos by Mark Parker, unless otherwise noted. While years of invaluable research went up in flames earlier this month, an “Ocean of Support” is proving that St. Petersburg’s marine science sector is too vital to stay submerged for long. ​Nearly 400 people attended the Ocean of Support benefit on Friday evening at the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub. Local leaders began organizing the fundraiser, held in the shadow of the Marine Science Laboratory’s charred remains, less than 48 hours after a suspected lightning strike set the facility on the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus ablaze. ​Thousands of dollars raised at the event will benefit the USF College of Marine Science and the Florida Institute of Oceanography. Looking out over a throng of supporters, Dr. Tom Frazer, dean of the college, called the moment “huge.” ​“Sometimes when you have a tragedy, you see the best in people,” Frazer told Power Broker Magazine. “And that’s certainly what’s happened here in St. Pete. The outpouring of support has been amazing, and it warms your heart.” Nearly 200 firefighters spent hours containing the blaze on May 2. Photo: Fireground24photography. ​The benefit also offered stakeholders an opportunity to thank some of the approximately 200 firefighters who helped extinguish the blaze on May 2. While no injuries were reported, the World War II-era building along Bayboro Harbor is likely a total loss. ​Frazer noted that video footage clearly shows lightning striking the laboratory. A fire inspector is still discerning if that was the primary or a contributing cause. ​Stakeholders have speculated that the college lost millions of dollars' worth of research equipment. Frazer said insurance adjustors are still assessing the damage, and “that information will take a while to compile.” ​“We’re going to try to work through that as fast as we possibly can,” he added. “Our goal is to get our college operational again as quickly as possible.” Dr. Tom Frazer (right, kneeling), dean of the USF College of Marine Science, and local researchers affected by the fire pose for a picture. ​There are silver linings. Frazer said some biological and geological samples, prioritized for evacuation during recent hurricanes, were salvaged. Much of the data extracted from computer equipment is still usable, and instrumentation is rebuildable or replaceable. ​“The journey is going to be a long one, but we’ll get there,” Frazer said. “Time will tell a little bit, but I think we feel pretty good about our efforts to get everything we could.” ​Dozens of researchers were displaced due to the fire. Frazer said state and federal agencies throughout St. Petersburg’s Innovation District, and the university, have offered emergency space. ​Frazer noted that society faces complex environmental challenges. “The work that we did, the science that we did, is not just of local importance - it’s of regional, national, and even international importance,” he said. ​“So, sometimes out of tragedy, people see the value of what you do, and I think that message was really helpful.” Local artist Zulu Painter works on a painting at the event. ​The surrounding community’s response to Ocean of Support underscored his sentiment. Attendees bought all 1,000 raffle tickets, and a silent auction raised an undisclosed amount of additional funding. ​The event featured live paintings by local artists Alyssa Marie and Zulu Painter, who donated the artwork. Duke Energy, Thrive Downtown, and Rock Bottom Charters also provided auction and raffle prizes. ​Carved & Crafted Catering at USF, the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, and the innovation district provided food and sodas. Councilmember Mike Harting, owner of 3 Daughters Brewing, Great Bay Distributors, and Republic National Distributing Company, donated beer, hard seltzers, and wine. ​A massive water station and event supplies were provided by the City of St. Petersburg. The Grind campus cafe offered coffee, tea, and pastries, and Pacuigo hosted a gelato station. Ocean Road Band performed an extensive, free set for attendees. ​City Councilmember Gina Driscoll, who led efforts to organize the event, said inviting St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, which extended a ladder truck over the crowd, was a priority. The aptly-titled Ocean Road Band performed a multi-hour set for free. ​“I’ve never been a person who has a comfort level with feeling helpless, and I thought, you know what, I’m just going to get some people together and raise some money,” said Driscoll, who found an immediate and enthusiastic partner in Alison Barlow, executive director of the St. Petersburg Innovation District. ​“The fire was on a Saturday night, and the following Monday we were rolling.” ​Driscoll noted that marine science is a “big economic driver” in St. Petersburg. She also pledged that the event is “just the beginning,” and stakeholders would “do more as we move forward.” ​Frazer, who became emotional as he addressed attendees, said the outpouring of support restored his faith in humanity. “We’re going to come back, we’re going to be bigger, and we’re going to be better - and we’re going to be all of that because of all of you.” ​To donate to the USF College of Marine Science fund, visit the website here. Local artist Alyssa Marie also donated paintings. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

On May 6, American Express announced two programs focused on AI training and workforce development American Express issued a press release in early May announcing partnerships with two nonprofits — Generation and Scholarship America — to introduce new artificial intelligence (AI) education initiatives designed to help small businesses and their employees integrate AI into their day-to-day operations. Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at American Express, noted in a corporate press release, "AI can be a powerful tool for small businesses when it’s used in practical, everyday ways. These initiatives were designed to help small businesses move from Gen AI exploration to practical application, equipping them to drive productivity and help unlock new opportunities for growth." AI Upskilling for Small Business Open to businesses globally and available in English and Spanish, AI Upskilling for Small Business is a training program designed for small businesses and grounded in real-world applications. It covers AI fundamentals, digital marketing, and digital customer success. You can learn more and register on the Generation website. An AmEx press release notes that the program offers three training tracks tailored to different roles and levels of AI familiarity: AI Generalist: A foundational primer plus targeted “Mini Missions” to apply AI across everyday tasks, with modules designed for seamless workflow integration. Digital Marketing: Applies AI to content creation, campaign optimization and insight generation to support efficiency and impact. Digital Customer Success: Uses AI to streamline customer interactions, resolve inquiries faster, and deliver more personalized experiences. Learn more and apply at Generation’s website. Smart Futures for Small Business Scholarships Administered by Scholarship America, this program provides U.S.-based small business employees with up to $1,000 in scholarship funding to pursue AI courses or certifications at colleges and universities. Small business employers can nominate a member of their teams to apply for a scholarship and build new skills in AI that can have a ripple effect on both the business and employee’s potential. Learn more at the Scholarship America website. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

A damaged burial vault spray-painted with the words “Ron DeSantis” at the Old Memphis Cemetery in Palmetto. All images: Screengrabs, YouTube. Police are still searching for suspects after vandals damaged 17 gravesites at a historic Black cemetery in Palmetto, roughly 25 miles south of St. Petersburg. ​The vandalism included broken and toppled headstones and caused significant damage to burial vaults at Old Memphis Cemetery, which opened in 1904 to serve African American residents. Several graves were spray-painted with the words "Trump" and "DeSantis,” referring to the president and governor, respectively. ​Detectives believe the incident, announced on Thursday, occurred sometime this month. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office has yet to announce any arrests, and an investigation is ongoing. ​“This is unconscionable,” said Rep. Michele Rayner in a social media post on Friday. “I’m looking forward to the Republican-led legislature and governor to comment and use the full weight of law enforcement to investigate this.” Gov. Ron ​DeSantis has not responded to the incident. White House spokesman Davis Ingle said in a prepared statement that “anyone who engages in this disgusting behavior must be condemned in the harshest terms possible.” ​Reuters, which first reported the story on May 14, noted that President Donald Trump has a history of sharing racist rhetoric. Glenn Searls, 77, told the publication that he felt “extreme anger” over the vandalism to the predominantly Black cemetery at 202 25th St. W. in Palmetto. Authorities have yet to announce any arrests in the case. ​​“When you look, and you see ‘DeSantis’ and ‘Trump’ spray-painted on a vault, you wonder if it’s politically motivated, and I tend to believe it is,” said Searls, who has family members buried at Old Memphis Cemetery. ​Edrena Love Freeman found her father’s gravestone had been removed. “I just thought it was evil; it’s just not right,” she told the publication. ​Manatee County officials are working with a specialized contractor to assess and repair the damaged gravesites. They are also considering implementing additional security measures at the cemetery. The county, in partnership with the Cities of Palmetto and Bradenton, will host a cleanup and beautification effort at Old Memphis Cemetery on Saturday, May 23, beginning at 9 a.m. “Acts of vandalism do not define our community - the response does,” said Commissioner Amanda Ballard in a prepared statement. “What we are seeing now is neighbors, families, volunteers, and local partners coming together to restore dignity to this historic cemetery and honor the generations of people buried there, including veterans who served our country. Ahead of Memorial Day, this effort is about remembrance, respect, and unity.” ​Authorities are asking anyone with information about the vandalism to contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Manatee County Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS (8477). ​Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to an arrest. The Gold Star Club of Manatee County is offering an additional $1,000 reward. The 122-year-old cemetery is at 202 25th St. W. in Palmetto, an approximately 30-minute drive south from St. Petersburg. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube.

From left: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Hillsborough County Commission Chair Ken Hagan, and Ken Babby, CEO of the Tampa Bay Rays, celebrate the negotiating parties reaching a memorandum of understanding on Friday afternoon. Photo: City of Tampa. ​A memorandum of understanding between the Tampa Bay Rays and local government representatives now caps the public contribution toward the cost of a new stadium at $976 million - nearly $100 million less than the initial $1.065 billion request. ​The non-binding agreement, reached Thursday afternoon, still requires approval from the Hillsborough County Commission and Tampa City Council. However, Mayor Jane Castor called the long-awaited MOU a “gigantic step” toward ensuring the Rays remain in Tampa Bay at a press conference on Friday. ​Castor has reason to celebrate, as the framework for a $2.3 billion stadium deal reduces the city’s commitment from $251 million to $180 million. However, the county’s contribution has increased by $46 million since a draft proposal was released last month, to $796 million. ​“There’s been compromise on everyone’s part, because we’re all going towards the same goal,” Castor said. “The Rays belong in Tampa Bay. Now we have a memorandum of understanding that is the first step, and I would say a gigantic step, to ensuring that occurs.” ​County Commission Chair Ken Hagan and Castor also advocated for the MOU’s formal approval. He and his colleagues will vote on the framework on Wednesday, followed by the city council on Thursday. ​Castor noted that the MOU is a much-needed outline and the three negotiating parties must still fill in the blanks. “That’s where the hard work begins,” she said. ​Hagan explained that stakeholders would now address a “few unresolved issues,” and finalize binding documents. Those include a team lease for the county-owned stadium, a community benefits agreement, a non-relocation mandate, and a final funding plan, which will also require approval from the county and city. ​“I can’t imagine that any elected official would vote no on this memorandum of understanding,” Castor said. Hagan is “relatively confident” that the commission will approve the MOU, which will allow county administrators to “dig deep” into the stadium deal’s details. ​The Rays will now cover roughly 55% of the total cost for a 31,000-seat stadium with a translucent roof. That equates to an approximately $1.27 billion private investment, the largest by a professional sports team in state history, said CEO Ken Babby. The Rays will now cover at least 55% of the cost for a new ballpark at the Hillsborough College Dale Mabry campus. Rendering: Tampa Bay Rays. ​The team is also responsible for cost overruns, which underscores the new ownership group’s sense of urgency. Friday’s press conference came seven months after they announced an ambitious goal of opening a new ballpark in time for the 2029 baseball season. ​Babby said state lawmakers are “watching closely to make sure that we can reach an agreement here locally.” The Rays have reportedly requested $150 million from the Legislature, which is currently in a special budget session. ​Babby emphasized the importance of “keeping our foot on the gas” to reach definitive agreements with the county and city that will ensure Major League Baseball remains in the region after the team’s lease at Tropicana Field ends in 2028. The goal is to meet “not just the Rays’ timeline, but it’s the community and Tampa Bay’s timeline,” he said. ​Hagan, who wore a polo shirt emblazoned with the Rays logo and a team pin on his coat, said many short and long-term issues still “warrant careful consideration.” He also believes that “this is the closest we’ve ever been toward reaching an agreement with the Tampa Bay Rays.” ​County staff previously identified $702 million that Hillsborough could contribute to a new stadium. It remains unclear how officials will address what is now seemingly a $94 million gap. A rendering of the proposed mixed-use development surrounding a new stadium. Image: Tampa Bay Rays. ​Hagan said Friday that a hybrid financing model would free up money by allowing the county to issue fewer bonds. Officials would then dedicate funding designated for interest payments to the project. ​County staff is also “trying to be as creative as possible to identify sources that can be used to prevent us from raising taxes, from raising fees,” Hagan said. “Unlike previous agreements, we’re not raising taxes or fees.” ​Here are the proposed public funding sources: Tourist development tax bonds and reserves: Approximately $303 million. Community Investment Taxes (CIT): Approximately $360 million from the county and $80 million from the city, structured so public safety and infrastructure funding remain protected. “Other county resources”: Approximately $103 million. Drew Park Community Redevelopment Area tax revenue: Approximately $100 million. Federal disaster relief funding: Approximately $30 million for eligible stormwater infrastructure improvements. “Other public funds”: Approximately $54 million. Babby reiterated that the project, including the massive mixed-use development, will generate a $55 billion economic impact and create 12,000 new jobs. While details remain scarce, a community benefits agreement “will be the largest in the City of Tampa’s history.” ​The benefits package will focus on five core pillars: workforce development, youth opportunities, community access and activation, neighborhood enhancements and public investments, and direct community funding. “These things matter; this moment matters,” Babby said. ​“For nearly 20 years, folks have waited for this moment, wondering about where the future of this team will be, and this memorandum of understanding is a monumental step toward securing the future of Major League Baseball right here in Tampa.” Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Dwight Hudgins and Sharon Young’s notoriety has recently increased after multiple local television shows featured the couple. Photo: Barbara’s Kitchen. An affinity for catching and smoking wild game made Dwight Hudgins, also known as the Dreaded Fisherman, a natural to compete on Food Network’s new series, Chopped Castaways. ​However, landing a spot to compete for $100,000 against 12 chefs on a deserted island was so unexpected that Hudgins didn’t reply to what he thought was a scam. Producers found him through his Instagram page, which showcases his outdoor exploits and Barbara’s Kitchen, a Largo-based gourmet food business founded by his partner, Chef Sharon Young. ​Young, a Chopped aficionado, demanded that Hudgins return the call. He advanced from a deep pool of potential contestants and made his television debut on Tuesday. ​“The first episode - it’s different when you sit back and watch compared to when you’re in the mix of things,” Hudgins said. “You’re focused on your teammates and trying to accomplish certain things. So, it’s kind of strange to sit back and watch.” ​Chopped Castaways, a survival-style spinoff of the Emmy-nominated Chopped, strands 12 chefs on an undisclosed remote island. Contestants split into two teams that compete in cooking rounds and physical challenges. ​Unlike the original series, chefs on Chopped Castaways must build a working kitchen using primitive materials, cook over an open fire, and earn ingredients through outdoor challenges. Competitions include archery, spearfishing, ocean diving, and sand digging, which align with the Dreaded Fisherman’s hobbies. ​Hudgins said some contestants, to a “certain degree,” possessed similar skillsets. “There were some that said they did, but actually really didn’t.” ​“I would say some of them were a lot more boujee than others,” Hudgins added. “I could physically go out and grab an alligator and skin it. A lot of these other people had restaurant experience.” Dwight Hudgins (left) and Sharon Young, who opened Barbara’s Kitching in 2016. Image: Screengrab. He emphasized that Young, who opened Barbara’s Kitchen in 2016, is the true chef. She named the business, which specializes in handmade jams, jellies, sauces, and butters, in honor of her mother, Barbara Dawes. ​Hudgins creates several varieties of honey and seasonings, and the couple regularly hosts special events. The Dreaded Fisherman, whose double-entendre nickname stems from his hairstyle and the fear he instills in fish while angling, takes the lead during “wild game night.” ​“I grew up hunting and fishing and cooking what we caught,” Hudgins said. “My grandparents … sold all the good meat; whatever was left over, that’s what we ate. So, that part was exciting.” ​His background would seemingly give Hudgins a competitive advantage on Chopped Castaways. However, he believes the three judges valued taste and presentation more than “how the food got to the table.” ​Hudgins said the focus on creating traditional dishes increases as the eight-episode series progresses. “And I’m more thinking of a Crocodile Dundee scenario.” ​“It’s a standard meal, and I’m looking at doing a ball python or an iguana or something like that,” Hudgins added with a laugh. ​He survived the first episode, which aired on the Food Network at 9 p.m. on Tuesday. Tampa Bay residents looking to root for one of their own can stream the premiere on HBO Max. The cast of Chopped Castaways. Photo: Food Network. ​Young said she “absolutely” yelled at Hudgins through the screen while watching the episode. She also urged the “phenomenal” yet rustic cook to watch his timing before he left home, where he typically smokes meat for eight or nine hours. ​Hudgins said the remote island, with its lush forests and beaches, provided a beautiful setting. He also noted that a severe thunderstorm greeted contestants on their first day. “And then one by one, everyone started getting sick.” ​While he wishes that foraging for edible plants would have played a more prominent role in the show, Hudgins said he felt at home in the jungle. Non-disclosure agreements prevent him from sharing how he fared on Chopped Castaways. ​“It was exciting, and it was fun,” Hudgins said. “It was a very good experience.” ​Winning the $100,000 grand prize would allow Hudgins and Young to expand their business, he said. The two frequently host high-tea parties and charcuterie classes at 12508 Starkey Rd. in Largo, and an educational wild game night will return for Father’s Day. ​However, space is limited at the storefront. Hudgins said the couple would purchase an old Victorian house, or a “nice-sized boat,” with the prize money to increase event capacity. ​“It’s going to give us free exposure,” Hudgins said of the show. “And that was one of the biggest reasons I was intrigued to do it.” ​For more information about Chopped Castaways, visit the website here. ​For more information about Barbara’s Kitchen, visit the website here. Dwight “the Dreaded Fisherman” Hudgins, co-owner of Barbara’s Kitchen in Largo, is one of 12 contestants on Chopped Castaways, a new series from the Food Network. Image: Screengrab. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Kyandra Darling is a proud fourth-generation native of St. Petersburg and a lifelong Democrat (Kyandra Darling) The announcement came on Friday that U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders has endorsed St. Petersburg-based Kyandra Darling for Florida House district 62 - an open race for a seat currently held by State Representative Michele Rayner. The senator from Vermont posted the news to his social media channels on Friday morning, writing “Today, I am proud to endorse 61 progressives running for state and local office across America. They will fight for the kind of changes our country desperately needs.” So far, Darling is the only state and local candidate in Florida to be endorsed by Sanders - a distinction she noted in a Facebook post. “I am beyond honored to receive an endorsement from U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, a proven advocate for human rights,” Darling wrote. “As the only candidate endorsed in Florida, I understand the gravity of this moment, and I’m deeply honored to carry the torch for future leaders around our state and beyond!” The endorsement adds momentum to Darling’s candidacy. Her website boasts the backing of: Kathy Castor, U.S. Representative D14 Alan Clandenin, Tampa City Councilmember Harry Cohen, HIllsborough County Commissioner Gina Driscoll, St. Petersburg City Councilmember Richie Floyd, St. Petersburg City Councilmember Eric Gerard, Former Largo City Commissioner Pat Gerard, Former Mayor of Largo & Pinellas County Commissioner Charlie Gerdes, Former St. Petersburg City Councilmember Lisset Hanewicz, St. Petersburg City Councilmember Bob Henriquez, Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Alan Johnson, Former Mayor of St. Pete Beach Rick Kriseman, Former St. Petersburg Mayor John Muhammad, Former St. Petersburg City Councilmember Frank Peterman, Former Florida State Representative Alex Sink, Former Florida Chief Financial Officer Cindy Stuart, Former Hillsborough County Clerk and Comptroller Darling has two competitors for the August 18, 2026 primary election - Upton Fischer and Wengay Newton, who formerly represented district 70 in the Florida House. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — American Stage is turning up the heat this summer with The Hot Wing King, the Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy-drama by acclaimed playwright Katori Hall, running June 3–28, 2026. Set in Memphis, Tennessee, during the annual "Hot Wang Festival," the play follows Cordell Crutchfield and his partner Dwayne — along with their culinary crew, The New Wing Order — as they chase a crispy crown. But when Dwayne takes in his troubled nephew, the stakes get a whole lot higher than a first-place trophy. Promotional materials describe The Hot Wing King as a funny, deeply felt exploration of Black masculinity, queerness, love, and family — told with sizzle and soul. Katori Hall, a Memphis native, has become one of the most celebrated voices in American theater. The Hot Wing King earned Hall the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, with the Pulitzer board praising it as a "funny, deeply felt consideration of Black masculinity... filtered through the experiences of a loving gay couple." Hall also won the Olivier Award for Best New Play for her earlier work The Mountaintop and received two Tony Award nominations for Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, which she wrote and co-produced. The production is directed by Kenny Moten and stars Mathenee Treco (Hamilton national tour) and Jos N. Banks (Kinky Boots international tour), alongside Randy Chalmers, Don Randle, Elijah Jordan, and Lance Markeith Felton. Special events include: Behind the Scenes — May 24, 2026, 2:00 PM Preview Nights — June 3 & 4, 7:00 PM Opening Night — June 5, 8:00 PM Hot Wing Competition — June 14, 2:00 PM ASL Performance — June 20, 8:00 PM The show is rated for ages 16+ and runs through June 28. Tickets are on sale now at americanstage.org or by calling (727) 823-7529. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Akayla Gardner is an award-winning journalist who has covered President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris (Akayla Gardner) On Tuesday of this week, President Donald Trump called MS NOW reporter, Akayla Gardner, “a dumb person” for pointing out that the cost of his hoped-for ballroom had doubled since he first announced the project. The incident happened on the South Lawn of the White House prior to the president’s departure for a summit with Xi Jinping, president of the People's Republic of China. Gardner is an award-winning journalist who also reported on the Biden administration (previously for News). The young journalist had reported on four continents. In 2024, she was a National Press Foundation Paul Miller Washington Reporting Fellow. For more, read MS NOW’s report, and for perspective, listen in to Native Land Pod’s discussion of Trump’s repeated disrespect for female reporters, particularly African Americans, and how we should respond (starting at around minute 17). Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Woodson leader issue last calls on Jazzy juneteenth ticket sales, event nears sell out (Woodson African American Museum of Florida) The Woodson African American Museum of Florida announced today that the popular Jazzy Juneteenth Jubilee is officially almost sold out. The museum’s executive director, Terri Lipsey Scott, describes it as an “extraordinary evening of culture, celebration, and community,” and urged supporters in an email this week to secure tickets “before the SOLD OUT banner is raised.” This annual celebration is attended by residents and visitors from across the region to commemorate Juneteenth through live music. The event is also a fundraiser for the museum, supporting year-round exhibits, educational initiatives, and community programming. Guests are encouraged to dress with purpose in their choice of red, black, green or yellow to honor the emancipation of African Americans in the U.S. and the ongoing pursuit of true equality for all. Event Details What: Jazzy Juneteenth Jubilee When: Sunday, June 21, 2026, at 5:00 PM Where: The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Admission: Table Purchase (Accommodates up to 10 guests per table) Click Here to Reserve Your Table for Up to 10 Guests! Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Mequela Moreno, environmental affairs manager for ECOncrete, is passionate about protecting marine environments, education, and providing much-needed Black representation in a typically homogenous field. Photo courtesy of Mequela Moreno. Mequela Moreno is on a mission to reshape concrete jungles into marine sanctuaries, while proving that protecting coastal communities starts with breaking barriers in and outside of the lab. ​Moreno, environmental affairs manager for ECOncrete, is now highlighting how the company’s patented additive and surface-based design principles can transform typical coastal infrastructure into a thriving marine habitat. The resulting layer of living organisms also increases a structure’s resilience to flooding, sea level rise, and extreme weather events. ​The eco-friendly concrete’s benefits recently led South Florida-based Moreno, also a professor at Everglades University, to St. Petersburg’s Innovation District. She believes the collaborative work emanating from the area helps distinguish Florida from other states, “because we are on the pathway to protecting our coastal resources.” ​“We need to come up with solutions now - not in 10 or 15 years, but now,” Moreno said. “And let’s test them and see how they work in a real-world environment. And then help provide funding for them, too. So you’re not leaving smaller companies with ideas to be on their own.” A before-and-after photo highlighting how ECOncrete creates marine habitats. Photo: ECOncrete. ​ECOncrete and the innovation district share that vision, Moreno said. Headquartered in New York, the company was founded in 2012 by two marine biologists and now boasts offices in Spain and Denmark. ​Moreno, who left multiple roles with the federal government to join the private sector, is now working to expand ECOncrete’s footprint to Florida. She wants people to know that the company’s proprietary additives, surface textures, and mold designs can help safeguard critical underwater infrastructure while also supporting communities that rely on fisheries and coastal economies. ​People often fail to realize that traditional concrete and marine infrastructure can have harmful environmental impacts, Moreno said, as it is “out of sight, out of mind.” She believes seawalls, bridges, pillars, and other structures should have ecological performance standards. ​Moreno explained that infrastructure built with ECOncrete structures develops a living layer of oysters, corals, tubeworms, and algae, which attracts fish. “When your fish species show up, guess what? That’s eco-tourism,” she said. ​The company’s concrete also acts as an above-water “ecological mattress” that fosters vegetation, which in turn helps stabilize the surrounding environment, Moreno added. “You’re basically recreating the shoreline.” ​Shorelines - rapidly disappearing due to development and natural factors - help mitigate flooding and sea level rise. Moreno noted that Florida, with the passage of Senate Bill 302, has signaled a shift toward integrating nature-based solutions into resilience planning. ​She said the legislation, which became law in March, fosters innovation and allows eco-friendly companies to thrive. “Most of our engineering techniques have always worked against nature.” ​“So now we’re acknowledging that we should partner with nature,” Moreno continued. “Let’s get it right this time.” A photo highlighting how the company’s “armor blocks” support marine life in New York. She believes the innovation district can serve as a model for supporting small businesses with big ideas to transform marine industries. Moreno hopes to discuss collaboration opportunities with local leaders. ​ECOncrete can also support jobs, Moreno said. The company relies on locally sourced labor and sand to complete projects. “We don’t outsource anything.” ​A seat at the table ​Like many millennials, Moreno grew up watching episodes of Bill Nye the Science Guy. She “never really saw a Black scientist” during her formative years, and wanted to help increase representation for younger versions of herself. ​“And then you get to educate your community about our resources to make sure they know that these are the options we have,” Moreno said. “I’m more for the education component, but mostly ensuring we are doing right by this planet.” ​She wants the younger generations to know that their background does not impede their ability to succeed in science, government policy, or leadership. “Your experiences can actually become your strength,” Moreno said. ​“Many communities facing environmental and economic challenges need voices from people who understand those experiences firsthand,” she added. “I want others to know they belong in these fields, and that success is not about coming from privilege - it is about persistence, passion, and believing you deserve a seat at the table.” Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. 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The Black Money Movement is a political action organization supporting community wealth and economic circulation in the South St. Petersburg area, including Cash Mob advocacy for Black-owned businesses. Pictured: Cash Mob at Juggs Soul Food Kitchen, St. Pete. Photo by Jabaar Edmond. Following the reported mistreatment of resident Carlisa Wilson and neighborhood children on September 8, 2025, the South St. Petersburg community moved to boycott the Snax Convenience Store. This 30-day protest evolved into a larger community movement due to the overwhelming support from residents and local Black-owned businesses. Interim Black Money Movement President Erin McFarley (second to right), next to Reno Moore, founder of the Black Money Movement at Snax the Stage. Image Courtesy of 1Love Magazine. In response to the boycott, activist Reno Moore founded the Black Money Movement — a political action organization focused on supporting community wealth and economic circulation in the South St. Petersburg area. The Black Money Movement introduced St. Pete to the “Cash Mob,” and its goal isn’t just awareness, but also action and continuous support for sustainable local businesses that hire locally, grow their operations, support their families, and reinvest in the community. The term “cash mobs” originated in 2011 and describes a group of people who assemble at a local business to make purchases. The purpose of these mobs is to support both local businesses and the community as a whole. Florida is no stranger to cash mob initiatives, which have spread across the state. One popular cash mob initiative in Jacksonville, the Melanin Collaborative Group's Buy Black Bus Blitz is a 6-hour bus tour with a curated lineup designed to support local Black-owned businesses. The bus tour directly brings a “cash mob” of shoppers to the businesses to boost visibility and sales. Locally, the Black Money Movement launched its Cash Mob-coordinated events in December of 2025. Through networking, collaboration, and discovery of local businesses, the Cash Mob events have strengthened community relationships between residents and neighborhood shops. BMM’s interim president, Erin McFarley, is spreading the Cash Mob advocacy, boosting revenue, and creating long-term opportunities within the South St. Petersburg community. Interim President of the Black Money Movement Erin McFarley. Image courtesy of Erin McFarley. McFarley is the founder of McFarley Capital Unlimited, where she helps individuals and entrepreneurs strengthen their financial foundation through tax strategy. In addition to her titular role, she’s also an entrepreneur, speaker, community advocate, and interim president for the Black Money Movement. “I am also actively involved in community empowerment efforts throughout the Tampa Bay area, with a focus on entrepreneurship, economic growth, collaboration, and creating opportunities that help underserved communities thrive,” said McFarley. “The Black Money Movement evolved into an organized effort focused on circulating dollars intentionally within the community and helping remove some of the negative economic statistics that continue to affect Black communities,” she explained. “Especially during a time when many Black-owned businesses struggle with visibility and resources, these events help create real momentum.” According to McFarley, since its inception, businesses involved in the events have reportedly seen an average revenue increase of approximately 40% to 50% during the events. Although revenue is an important aspect of coordinated events, the key initiative is to build morale, unity, visibility, and hope behind these local businesses. “The impact has been powerful. Businesses are gaining new customers, increased visibility, and stronger financial support from the community. Many business owners have expressed how meaningful it is to not only feel supported financially, but also appreciated and seen,” said McFarley. Beyond this event series, the Black Money Movement works to revitalize parts of South St. Petersburg by fostering positive energy, economic activity, and a sense of collective responsibility for community growth. The next upcoming Cash Mob is next Friday, May 22, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 1811 Dr Martin Luther King Jr. St. S, St. Petersburg. Flyer for next Saturday’s Cash Mob event, “Hams R Us.” Image courtesy of Erin McFarley. McFarley hopes attendees leave with an understanding of how powerful intentional support is and walk away inspired to continue supporting local businesses beyond the event. “We encourage the community to come out, support, connect, and continue helping us ‘make each other rich on purpose.’ Every purchase, referral, social media share, and every person who shows up contributes to helping businesses grow and communities thrive,” said McFarley. In the meantime, Moore continues to expand the vision of the Black Money Movement, sharing about a new initiative – “The Black Church Challenge.” “We want to issue a NEW community challenge, one we like to call The Black Church Challenge. Which Black church can get the most of their respected congregation to attend these #CashMob events?” he asked, emphasizing, “It's our responsibility to make each other rich on purpose!” For updates on upcoming Cash Mob events and community initiatives, readers can follow the Black Money Movement page on Facebook for additional information and announcements. McFarley shared that “The Black Money Movement evolved into an organized effort focused on circulating dollars intentionally within the community and helping remove some of the negative economic statistics that continue to affect Black communities.” Image sourced from The Black Money Movement on Facebook. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

From left: David Thompson, director of government affairs and co-chair of St. Petersburg’s AI Task Force, City Councilmember Copley Gerdes, and Mayor Ken Welch. Photo: City of St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg officials believe artificial intelligence can, potentially, revolutionize city operations, municipal service delivery, and workforce productivity. But first, they need more information on the rapidly evolving technology. ​Mayor Ken Welch’s administration has issued a formal request for information (RFI) from tech-focused vendors regarding the use of multiple forms of artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to “assess available technologies, implementation models, governance considerations, and cost structures,” which will inform future planning and a potential competitive procurement process, according to the announcement. ​The RFI, released on April 15, is purely exploratory - it is not a call for bids or proposals and does not guarantee that the city will enter into any contracts. It states that the gathered information will support efforts to assess feasibility, estimate future costs, identify potential risks, and establish a governance framework to inform decisions on future AI initiatives. ​“I just think at some point, every organization, every entity, is going to have to learn how to utilize AI or be left behind,” Welch told Power Broker Magazine. “So, that’s our approach at this point.” ​Welch declined to discuss details while the RFI is active. Interested vendors have until 3 p.m. to submit required documentation. ​The future of AI is “wide open,” said Welch, who was first introduced to the technology at mayor's conference in 2023 and continues familiarizing himself with the latest technological advancements. “There’s so much opportunity there.” A graphic highlighting the forecasted market size for artificial intelligence in government, and how global officials will allocate the funding. Image: market.us. ​David Thompson, director of government affairs, is overseeing the initiative. He also serves as co-chair of the city’s AI Task Force, and recently noted that the group is “making great progress.” ​Thompson said on Tuesday that the task force, following the mayor’s direction, is “very intentional about maintaining resident trust and thinking about efficiencies in operations.” The city will use the insight gathered from the RFI to create a database of possible AI solutions for local government. ​“Then we can go from there, assessing what departments make sense to start piloting AI usage,” Thompson added. “Then we’ll go through the process we’ve developed to make sure it’s responsible, and that our residents can feel good about it.” ​AI-involved procedures regarding auditability and compliance with Florida public records requirements will still have human oversight, according to the RFI’s question-and-answer section. An unnamed official said the goal is to enhance staff productivity rather than replace their decision-making. ​“To maintain public trust, the city expects AI-supported processes to include appropriate human-in-the-loop review, accountability, auditability, and traceability,” the reply states. ​Currently identified priority areas for AI integration include building permitting and review, resident safety and security, and public facility usage. The technology could also review policy and contract discrepancies, collect data, and schedule meetings, notes the RFI. ​Thompson said the city would engage the public once the submission window closes. He reiterated that Welch wants to “make sure we have resident trust and that they understand what we’re doing with AI. So, we’ll have that external process.” ​AI is not new to municipal government. New York, Boston, Seattle, Austin, Baltimore, and San Francisco are among the cities that have already embraced the technology. ​According to Smart Cities Dive, cities are largely adopting AI to address staffing shortages and increase capacity. A survey in 2025 found that local government utilization has nearly tripled, to 45%, since 2020. ​St. Petersburg, which continues working to modernize its technological systems, is also using AI, albeit in a limited capacity. The city’s current generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) “environment” consists of Microsoft Copilot and “limited ChatGPT licenses,” states the RFI. ​Welch’s administration requested information on AI, GenAI, and agentic AI solutions. The traditional version analyzes data to make predictions or classify information. ​GenAI creates new content, including text and pictures, based on user prompts. Agentic AI, the most advanced, acts autonomously to achieve complex goals by planning, using tools, and iterating over multiple steps. ​Officials are seeking “high-level, non-binding” cost estimates. They encourage vendors to provide pricing ranges or assumptions that incorporate licensing, implementation, integration, training, support, maintenance, usage fees, and potential future expansion. ​“The city considers the initial uptake of AI solutions as a pilot process that will require flexibility on implementation due to the nascent nature of many of these technologies,” notes the RFI. “As we train our workforce to engage with these platforms, we anticipate variability within departments in integration and adoption.” Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Rooted in the founders’ Zimbabwean heritage and Shona background, EnnYe brings together print, color, and everyday wearability. Photo retrieved from @ennye_collection Black designers have long shaped the language of fashion, from the way trends move through communities to the way culture shows up in texture, color, silhouette, and storytelling. Still, their presence inside the broader fashion industry remains limited. Essence reported that only 7.3 percent of American fashion designers are Black, a number that points to the continued need for visibility, access, and recognition across the industry. In the Tampa Bay Area, a growing group of Black designers and creative entrepreneurs are building brands rooted in heritage, sustainability, personal style, and cultural memory. From handcrafted and painted wearable art to Ghanaian imports, Zimbabwean design, and futuristic upcycled pieces, these are the names to know and keep on your radar. “Resurrecting, never discarding fashion. Handmade slow fashion, natural fabrics,” is the tagline for Renae Kotarski’s (pictured) Anástasi Fashion. Photo sourced from Facebook, Anastasifashionbrand, courtesy of Fashion’s Finest Tampa Bay Renae Kotarski Founder and designer of Anástasi Fashion Renae Kotarski, founder and designer behind Anástasi Fashion, a Tampa-based brand focused on ethical and sustainable clothing. The brand uses organic and eco-friendly fabrics, with designs that are modern, minimalist, and feminine. The name Anástasi comes from a Greek word meaning resurrection. For Kotarski, that idea connects to building a wardrobe with pieces that can be worn, restyled, and brought into different parts of life. Her approach centers on clothing that feels clean, practical, and intentional without relying on excess. Anástasi Fashion began to take shape in spring 2019, when Kotarski started designing linen dresses under her “Modern Queen” line. As the brand grew, she expanded into pants and other pieces while keeping the same focus on simple structure, strong design, and everyday wearability. Info: Website, Facebook, Instagram Renae Kotarski’s Anástasi Fashion focuses on ethical and sustainable clothing and designs that are modern, minimalist, and feminine. Photo retrieved from https://anastasifashion.com. Pictured: Sisters Matipa and Mercy, founders of EnnYe, a Saint Petersburg brand centered on bold print and 100 percent cotton garments. Photo retrieved from @ennye_collection. Matipa and Mercy founders of EnnYe Founded by sisters Matipa and Mercy, EnnYe is a Saint Petersburg brand centered on bold print and 100 percent cotton garments. The shop carries clothing, jewelry, Shona stone sculptures, and home accents, but its apparel stands at the front of the brand’s work. Rooted in the founders’ Zimbabwean heritage and Shona background, EnnYe brings together print, color, and everyday wearability. The brand was created around the idea that style is not limited to one type of person or one way of dressing. Its garments are contemporary, easy to style, and made for people looking for pieces that feel distinct without losing function. At EnnYe, clothing also works alongside the store’s larger connection to art and heritage. The Saint Petersburg shop includes a Shona Art gallery, which pays homage to the founders’ culture and adds another layer to the brand’s point of view. Still, the clothing remains the first introduction for many customers, offering bold, cotton pieces that connect personal style with cultural influence. Info: Website, Instagram, Facebook EnnYe’s Saint Petersburg shop includes a Shona Art gallery, which pays homage to the founders’ culture and adds another layer to the brand’s point of view. Photo retrieved from https://ennyecollection.com Founded in 2021, by Jennifer Black (pictured) Akua Imports grew out of her travels to Ghana and her connection to West African craftsmanship. Photo courtesy of Black. Jennifer Black Akua Imports Founded by Jennifer Black in 2021, Akua Imports grew out of her travels to Ghana and her connection to West African craftsmanship. The brand carries handmade goods made in Ghana and across the Sahara, with pieces that reflect the color, skill, and cultural traditions of the communities they come from. Black has returned to Ghana several times to build relationships with artisans and source products directly from the people creating them. Akua Imports focuses on quality, trend-forward handicrafts while keeping community support at the center of the brand. Each purchase helps support children and families in villages in Ghana. For Black, the work is about sharing Ghana’s culture through products people can wear, use, and keep. The brand brings that heritage into Tampa Bay through pieces that connect design, craftsmanship, and a larger mission of supporting artisans and preserving cultural traditions. Info: Facebook, Instagram Akua carries handmade goods made in Ghana and across the Sahara, with pieces that reflect the color, skill, and cultural traditions of the communities they come from. Photography By Kaylen Ross; courtesy of A. Baker. Pictured: Sherida Jones (kneeling, center) the designer behind Sheri Amor Couture, brings together fashion, art, and the influence of classic R&B. Photo courtesy of S. Jones. Sherida Jones founder and designer of Sheri Amor Couture Sherida Jones, the designer behind Sheri Amor Couture, brings together fashion, art, and the influence of classic R&B. Her interest in design started early. She began drawing fashion illustrations at age 4 and later created fashion lookbooks and comic strip stories that became popular among classmates. Jones went on to graduate from the Art Institute of Tampa, moving from graphic design into teaching art. While teaching a lesson on Kandinsky, she saw a way to connect her art background with clothing. That moment led her to begin painting on garments and eventually build Sheri Amor Couture. Today, Jones creates hand-painted wearable art, digital art, styling work, and retro-inspired pieces shaped by the look and sound of ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s R&B. As a self-taught designer who has been sewing for more than two years, her work leans into color, nostalgia, and regal silhouettes while giving each piece a clear artistic point of view. Info: Instagram While teaching a lesson on Kandinsky to students, Jones said she saw a way to connect her art background with clothing. Image sourced from @sheri.amor.couture. Glenn Jones, pictured, is the creative mind behind GALVO, a brand that brings together techwear, upcycling, and hands-on design. Image sourced from @galvo_design. Glenn Jones Creative director and designer behind GALVO Glenn Jones is the creative mind behind GALVO, a brand that brings together techwear, upcycling, and hands-on design. His pieces use metalwork, plastic elements, and angular shapes to create clothing with a rugged, futuristic look. The brand pulls from geometric and origami-inspired design, giving each piece structure and visual detail. GALVO is made for people who want clothing that feels different, but still has function. Upcycling is also part of the brand’s work. Glenn takes older garments and reworks them into new pieces, giving them a second life through stronger construction and a sharper point of view. The result is clothing that feels practical, experimental, and made to stand out. Info: Instagram Glenn Jones uses metalwork, plastic elements, and angular shapes to create clothing with a rugged, futuristic look. Photo courtesy of G. Jones. Travis Ray is the founder and designer behind Dapper Bowtique, an online accessory brand known for handcrafted bow ties and accessories. Image sourced from @dapperbowtique. Travis Ray Founder and CEO of Dapper Bowtique Travis Ray is the founder and designer behind Dapper Bowtique, an online accessory brand known for handcrafted bow ties and accessories. Ray makes each bow tie with the dapper and chic individual in mind, blending classic style with bold color, cultural prints, and unique design. The brand was sparked by a vivid dream in which a kente cloth bow tie was placed in Ray’s hands. That moment pushed him to start the business the next day and later led him to research his ancestry, where he found West African roots tied to Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, and Benin. Dapper Bowtique centers culture through pieces that feel polished, personal, and distinct. Handcrafted in the Sunshine State, Ray’s bow ties are designed as wearable art, giving customers a way to bring heritage, color, and individuality into a classic accessory. Info: Website, Facebook, Instagram Ray makes each bow tie with the dapper and chic individual in mind, blending classic style with bold color, cultural prints, and unique design.. Photo courtesy of Ray. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency Chair Naya Young (right) and fellow City Councilmember Lynn Hurtak announced on Tuesday that a new apartment complex will now offer workforce housing. Photo: City of Tampa. A recently completed apartment building in downtown Tampa will now offer workforce housing thanks to a $4 million investment from the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). ​The funding, announced on Tuesday, will support the conversion of 22 market-rate apartments within The Residences at 801 East Whiting into workforce housing. Tampa CRA officials said the development, within walking distance of the upscale Water Street District, will help bridge a critical gap for middle-income residents who want to live closer to where they work. ​Tampa-based BendinRoad Development, in partnership with Landings Real Estate Group, is behind the eight-story, 104-unit project at 801 East Whiting Street. The 22 apartments designated as workforce housing will serve households earning between 80% and 140% of the area median income (AMI). ​“Every affordable unit we can secure means one more teacher, one more service worker, one more nurse, first responder, or other working-class resident can live in the heart of our city, where they are closer to their jobs,” said CRA Board Chair Naya Young. “And where their families can enjoy all the amenities downtown Tampa has to offer.” The Residences at 801 East Whiting (left). Photo: BendinRoad Development. According to the announcement, the investment exemplifies the CRA’s mission to foster economic growth while ensuring the city’s evolution into a modern metropolis benefits residents of varying income levels. Officials also believe that creating more attainable housing downtown reduces commuting burdens and enhances the area’s livability. ​Apartments at The Residences at 801 East Whiting have compact floor plans ranging in size from 388 to 542 square feet. All subsidized units will feature an innovative furniture system, the Ori Cloud Bed. ​Designed to maximize space in urban living environments, the ceiling-mounted system integrates a sofa and a bed that retracts overhead at the push of a button or via voice control. That allows residents to convert sleeping space into a living area without the need for separate furniture. ​“This project represents an important step in expanding access to high-quality, attainable housing in a part of Tampa that has traditionally been out of reach for many working individuals and families,” said Craig Bazarsky, co-developer for BendinRoad. “We’re excited to be part of a solution that not only supports the city’s growth, but also ensures that the people who contribute to its success can live and thrive here.” ​The three one-bedroom and 19 subsidized studios may still be out of reach for many residents. Monthly rents start at $1,606 for households earning up to 80% of the AMI, which is $64,250 for one person. However, the cost represents an approximately $500 monthly discount on comparable market-rate units, according to the announcement. Income restrictions must remain in place for 50 years. The Ori Cloud Bed as a sleeping space. Photo: City of Tampa. The Ori Cloud Bed as a living space. Photo: City of Tampa. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Graduates of the Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate for First Responders program at St. Petersburg College in 2025. Area stakeholders will celebrate this year’s cohort at 3 p.m. on Monday, May 18, at the Clearwater Campus. Photo: SPC. ​A unique collegiate program designed to help first responders cope with the emotional toll that results from years of experiencing humanity’s worst continues uplifting agencies and, in turn, communities throughout Tampa Bay. ​Suncoast Police Benevolent Association (SCPBA) leadership began developing the Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate for First Responders program with St. Petersburg College in 2023. St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway embraced the initiative, local legislators provided seed funding, and the Pepin Family Foundation’s continued support covers tuition costs. ​The program, the first of its kind in Florida, will celebrate its third graduating class on May 18. Cpl. Carlos Brito, a digital analyst for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), is among the 44 participants who now have a new outlook on life. ​“It helped me work on myself,” Brito said of the program. “There are things we have to deal with on a daily basis that a person never has to deal with in their lifetime. You just create this baggage, this cumulative stress, that one day is going to show.” Cpl. Carlos Brito (left) a digital analyst with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department, and his family. Photo courtesy of Carlos Brito. ​Brito, who immigrated from Brazil over 20 years ago, has spent the past 13 years with the HCSO. He progressed from a patrol and community resource deputy to an undercover narcotics officer and corporal. ​However, a serious line-of-duty injury disrupted his life. Brito said he nearly died, and his job was in jeopardy after missing six months of work. ​Brito, after developing a “short fuse” with his wife and kids, decided to enroll in the free, nine-month program. The first five weeks with instructor Kim Molinaro felt like much-needed therapy, he said. ​“One of our colleagues committed suicide two years ago,” Brito explained. “I didn’t reach out to his widow - I didn’t know how to act. Taking this class, it opened my eyes that it’s not about those who are gone, but the families that were left behind.” ​Brito contacted his colleague’s widow after the first day of class. They discussed how he could help with her struggles, and she will highlight “the lack of support that families have after a loved one commits suicide” at a new, two-day training course in August, as part of his cohort’s capstone project. ​Research shows that one in three law enforcement officers experience post-traumatic stress symptoms, compared to 6% for the general population. Suicides continue outpacing line-of-duty deaths. ​Sgt. Corey Lenczden of the Clearwater Police Department has spent most of his 25-year career investigating sex crimes. He also lost a close friend and fellow officer to suicide before enrolling in the program, which provided a “better understanding of how to process what we experience in healthier ways, and how to help others do the same.” ​“We were taught to compartmentalize everything we saw,” Lenczden said in a prepared statement. “Over time, you realize that’s not a long-term solution. There are so many resources and techniques out there that I didn’t know about before.” St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway (second from left), was instrumental in establishing the program. Photo: SPC. ​This year’s class includes 14 graduates from the St. Petersburg, Tampa, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, and Bradenton Police Departments, and the HCSO. Participants receive the knowledge and skills needed to manage job-related stress, identify mental health concerns, and support colleagues and community members in crisis. ​The course also prepares first responders to serve as mental health liaisons within their agencies for at least three years. Joseph Smiley, dean of Human Services at SPC, noted that the program “not only strengthens individual well-being but also enhances the health and resilience of entire departments and communities.” ​Tina Pepin, executive director of the Pepin Family Foundation, similarly believes that investing in the mental health of first responders strengthens “families, agencies, and the communities they serve.” ​The program is the brainchild of SCPBA President Jonathan Vazquez and Executive Director Sasha Lohn, who have spent years helping officers navigate mental health challenges. Vazquez, an officer with the SPPD and a U.S. Army Veteran, believes the initiative is “helping reshape the culture within law enforcement.” ​“For too long, first responders have carried what they experience without the tools to process it,” he said. “That has to change, and this program is helping lead that change.” ​Lohn noted that participants receive “real access to support,” in addition to education. “We’re making sure officers have the resources and training they need now, not only when they’re already in crisis,” she said. ​Brito echoed those sentiments. He also believes first responders must facilitate the change they hope to see, and encourages others to enroll. ​“It’s definitely a great opportunity,” Brito said. “You’re going to learn a lot about yourself, and others as well. If I can help one first responder next month - or 10 years from now - it was definitely worth it for me.” From left: Jonathan Vazquez, president of the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association; Tina Pepin executive director of the Pepin Family Foundation; and Sasha Lohn, executive director and general counsel for the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association. Photo: SCPBA. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Will Conroy, founder and president of Backstreets Capital, called downtown St. Petersburg’s Mirror Lake neighborhood “one-of-one” due to its historic character and natural amenities. All photos by Mark Parker. Construction has commenced on The Cade, a boutique condo building that stakeholders believe honors St. Petersburg’s history while representing its ongoing evolution. ​St. Petersburg-based Backstreets Capital is behind the approximately $20 million redevelopment and renovation project at 749 Burlington Ave. N. The seven-story building overlooking Mirror Lake will sit behind the historically significant Cade Allen Home. ​Backstreets Capital is also restoring the 89-year-old home, built by pioneering builder Cade Allen. Mayor Ken Welch thanked the local development team and city staff for preserving “what’s special about St. Pete and making this project happen” at a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday. ​“I’m particularly excited about this development because it represents the best of what thoughtful growth in our city can look like,” Welch said. “It blends new development with the preservation of a historic stone home that has stood in this community for almost 90 years.” The Cade Allen home at 250 Mirror Lake Dr. The 15-unit, mid-rise tower’s design draws inspiration from its historic neighbor at 250 Mirror Lake Dr. Backstreets Capital demolished the home’s garage to accommodate the redevelopment. ​However, the firm is restoring the structure and incorporating salvaged materials, including the original stone, into The Cade’s lobby to create a permanent connection between the neighborhood’s past and present. Manny Leto, executive director of Preserve the ‘Burg, said after the ceremony that the project could “absolutely” serve as a model for other developments. ​“This is exactly the kind of project that we love to see,” Leto said of the local nonprofit. “It shows how new development and preservation can work hand-in-hand. And that you can create something that is really unique in the marketplace, that has a real identity and authenticity, while also building something new.” ​Backstreets Capital, one of four shortlisted firms vying to reimagine the Historic Gas Plant District, operated from the 4,000-square-foot home for nearly five years. The ranch-style residence was one of the few Allen built outside of the eponymous Allendale Terrace neighborhood. ​The home, previously used as an office building, is not listed on any local or national historic registers. Instead, the city classifies it as a contributing structure of the Downtown St. Petersburg Historic District. ​Will Conroy, founder and president of Backstreets Capital, noted his firm is bringing the structure “back to life” as a single-family home. He said The Cade will become “the only place in the United States where you have a lake in the foreground of your living room, you have a city skyline, and you have a saltwater bay in your view.” ​“So, we truly think Mirror Lake is one-of-one, not only for the charming character, but also for the natural amenities it offers,” Conroy added. “ Mirror Lake is also where my wife’s family settled more than 100 years ago, in 1919. My kids are now fifth-generation St. Petersburg residents, and it all started right here on Mirror Lake.” From left: City Councilmember Copley Gerdes; Mayor Ken Welch; Will Conroy, founder and president of Backstreets Capital; Jenny Miers, partner with PLACE Architecture; and Guy Gannaway, owner of GSA Contracting. ​Welch told attendees that he was proud of an “all-local team effort.” Participating firms include PLACE Architecture, GSA Contractors, Valin Construction, s.p.a.c.e., and The Wittner Wollman Group. ​“I always believe in keeping local dollars local,” Welch told Power Broker Magazine. “But it is also important when you’ve got a fourth-generation St. Petersburg resident - Will Conroy - leading this, who remembers what made St. Pete special.” ​Conroy said The Cade’s three-bedroom units were intentionally designed to accommodate current or future full-time residents by offering more space than traditional condominiums. Each floor will feature two or three homes to increase privacy. ​​Pricing starts at approximately $1.9 million. Welch noted that the project will benefit the local economy, boost the city’s property tax base, and, like all market-rate developments, did not receive any subsidies. ​“It’s a better use for property that was ripe for redevelopment,” Welch said of The Cade. “It is high-end, market-rate. But again, we need housing at all levels, and where our dollars go is to subsidize affordable and workforce (units).” ​Conroy could not provide a completion date but expects an expedited timeline due to the mid-rise building’s size. “At only seven stories, the constructability is more efficient and cleaner,” he said. A rendering of The Cade (left). Image: Backstreets Capital. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. 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The David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility will house the world’s largest Suspended Ion Exchange system at 7125 N. 30th St. in Tampa. Photo: Carollo Engineering. Tampa is proactively and decisively addressing what Mayor Jane Castor believes will soon become a pervasive global health issue, particularly within disadvantaged communities - a lack of clean drinking water. ​Plans to build the world’s largest Suspended Ion Exchange (SIX) water treatment system are now in the design phase. The innovative technology enhances water quality while slashing operational costs for taxpayers by nearly $2 million annually, and the David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility (DLTWTF) will house the nation’s first full-scale operation. ​SIX systems provide a safe, cost-effective way to remove organic compounds and “forever chemicals,” or PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which do not degrade naturally and pose significant health and environmental risks. Tampa’s primary water source is the pollution-challenged Hillsborough River. ​“When it comes to PFAS, we as water providers are passive receivers,” said Sarah Burns, water planning manager. “We didn’t generate it, we didn’t create it. But now it’s a problem that we have to spend money fixing for the public good.” ​Tampa completed a 10-month SIX system pilot study in 2021. The technology, which originated in the Netherlands, offers an alternative to traditional methods for removing organic matter from surface water. ​Decomposed vegetation typically produces naturally occurring organic material that affects water color and taste but is generally not harmful. However, current chemical disinfection processes can create toxic byproducts, and prolonged exposure to those increases health risks. ​Burns said the SIX system increases organic removal by 40% and decreases the need for chemical disinfectants, including sulfuric acid, by 60% to 80%. ​The DLTWTF currently produces an average of 80 million gallons of high-quality drinking water daily for over 733,000 residents. That number will increase threefold, to 140 million gallons, once officials complete the approximately $200 million project. ​“There’s about $80 million in capital cost savings that we would have to do to the rest of the plant, that we no longer have to do with SIX in place,” Burns said. “It’s a very sustainable process.” ​Forever Chemicals ​The city also realized that further reducing the presence of organic materials improved the efficacy of subsequent forever-chemical treatments. PFAS earned the nickname due to the uncanny ability to persist in the environment and human body for decades or even centuries. ​Manufacturers began using forever chemicals, which resist heat, water, oil, and stains, in the 1940s. Common sources include non-stick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, waterproof clothing, food packaging, industrial waste, and pollution caused by stormwater runoff. ​Studies have shown that underserved communities, including people of color and low-income households, are disproportionately affected by PFAS. For example, a 2021 report found that 69% of state-identified disadvantaged neighborhoods in California have forever-chemical contamination in their water systems. A small-scale version of a Suspended Ion Exchange system used during a pilot project in 2021. Photo: City of Tampa. ​Experts note that industrial plants, landfills, and military sites that use PFAS-containing firefighting foams are often located near low-income areas and communities of color. Private wells can lead to exposure, and storm runoff can carry forever-chemicals into municipal drinking water sources. ​PFAS accumulate in the body and cause a wide range of health issues, including increased cancer risk (kidney, testicular), thyroid disease, immune system damage, high cholesterol, decreased fertility, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and childhood developmental delays. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency implemented the first PFAS regulations in 2024 and continues urging Congress to adopt more stringent legislation. ​Burns said the city “couldn’t see whether or not we were removing PFAS” during the initial pilot project that ended in 2021. However, officials did realize that downstream filters could eliminate some forever-chemicals, “if there are not too many organics in the way.” ​A second pilot concluded in December 2025, and they “also found that because of the way this ion exchange process works, we’re removing 30% of PFAS directly, through that process alone,” Burns explained. ​“So, that was great news,” she added. “We’ve been pretty thrilled with everything we found through this technology. Utilities don’t like new things; it can be hard to get a utility to do that, so I’m pretty impressed that the city made that decision.” ​Burns noted that no amount of forever-chemicals is safe. She, like Castor, believes Tampa has a head start in the race to mitigate PFAS, with cities like Miami facing an “uphill battle.” ​“With our small amount, we’re looking good with our Suspended Ion Exchange process,” Burns said. “But other utilities need to do a lot more, and even just find source water.” ​The city council approved the groundbreaking project in late March. Officials could have spent $280 million on upgrades to the DLTWTF without the SIX system, which should be fully operational by 2031, Burns said. ​Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Marvin Ellison, the first Black CEO of Lowe’s, is doubling down on efforts to address the nation’s critical shortage of skilled trades workers. Photo: Lowe’s. While many corporations invest billions into artificial intelligence, home improvement behemoth Lowe’s is betting on blue-collar workers. ​CEO Marvin Ellison recently announced that Lowe’s is committing $250 million to help train and develop 250,000 tradespeople by 2035. The construction industry needs 349,000 new workers to meet demand this year, according to estimates from the Associated Builders and Contractors. ​Ellison subsequently told Fortune that Lowe’s “believes strongly” in the future of artificial intelligence (AI), which will increasingly impact administrative and analytical occupations. “We think the skilled trades initiative is going to be even more important here in the near future,” he added. ​“As powerful as AI will become, AI can’t climb a ladder to change the batteries in your smoke detector,” Ellison said. “It can’t change your furnace filter, it can’t clean your dryer vent, it can’t repair a hole on your roof.” ​In 2023, the Lowe’s Foundation announced a $50 million, five-year commitment to help train 50,000 skilled tradespeople. The company has since invested in 65 partner organizations and is on track to reach its initial goal by 2027, a year early. ​The foundation, through its Gable Grants initiative, is now expanding partnerships with nonprofits and community colleges nationwide to increase trade program capacity, reduce training barriers, and recruit new participants. Stakeholders will prioritize job placement, career advancement opportunities to bolster employee retention, and long-term sustainability, according to the announcement. ​“Three years ago, we set out to lead an ambitious workforce movement in a pivotal moment - and it’s taken off faster than we imagined,” Ellison said in a prepared statement. “American prosperity is at stake, and we are partnering to solve the workforce gap with a growing force of educators, employers, and policymakers who understand local needs.” ​The foundation is enhancing its CareerStart platform, a free service that directly connects job seekers with employment and educational opportunities. Reaching disengaged youth - young people ages 16 to 24 who are not currently in school or working - is a focus. ​“Building Back America’s Trades,” a three-part television series produced by the foundation that showcases aspiring skilled tradespeople and their mentors, recently debuted on HBO Max and Discovery +. Ellison believes people should choose a career path based on their natural interests and skill sets rather than outside pressure. ​Business leaders, including himself, “need to do a better job of presenting skilled trades as rewarding, viable careers - not just backup plans,” Ellison said. “This is going to be so critical to the future, not only of our company, but to our country.” For more information about the Lowe’s Foundation and its Gable Grants program, visit the website here. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Clyde Best (right), a pioneering soccer star in England and Tampa Bay, with actor Tony Head, discusses a new documentary that chronicles his journey after a special screening on Friday at the Palladium Theater. Photos by Mark Parker. A new documentary is providing a long-overdue look at how Clyde Best overcame incessant racial bigotry to become England’s first Black football superstar and a soccer legend in the United States. ​In 1968, a 17-year-old Best left his native Bermuda to play for West Ham United in the top-tier English Premier League’s First Division, where he quickly became known as a prolific scorer and trailblazer. After enduring eight years of blatant racism in London, he joined the Tampa Bay Rowdies and immediately won a championship in the burgeoning North American Soccer League (NASL). ​“Transforming the Beautiful Game: The Clyde Best Story” is a meticulously detailed, full-length documentary that explores how a teen from Bermuda helped shape soccer’s global trajectory. Director Dan Egan screened the film, which features 43 interviews from some of the sport’s most respected voices, from Thursday through Saturday at the Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg. ​Egan enlisted Tony Head, a prominent actor whose credits include HBO’s hit series “The Wire,” to narrate the documentary. They joined Best at a special screening on Friday afternoon to discuss the film’s creation and importance. ​“I don’t know another story like this,” Head explained. “I compare it to Jackie Robinson, favorably. Jackie was 28 when he was brought into Major League Baseball. He had a family. He was a very mature man, and he had the support of Branch Rickey, who was president of the Brooklyn Dodgers. They made a decision to let Blacks … into the major leagues. So, he had that support. ​“Clyde had none of this, and he was a teenager. And on top of that, he becomes an icon.” From left: Director Dan Egan, Tony Head, and Clyde Best. ​The film begins by highlighting the racial tensions that permeated life in the 1960s. Best, a soccer phenom in his native Bermuda, the first English colony to participate in the transatlantic slave trade, arrived in London alone and without a place to stay. ​By chance, a stranger introduced Best to Jessie Charles, a white woman and mother to fellow West Ham players John and Clive Charles. The teen lived with the family for six years. ​“If it wasn’t for the Charles family, God knows what would have happened to me,” Best said in the film. “She took me in and treated me just like one of her own children.” ​Best, known for his strength and athleticism, immediately excelled with West Ham. While he was not England’s first Black footballer, his predecessors were never afforded an opportunity to achieve the same level of prominence in the country’s top division. ​The striker scored 47 goals for West Ham between 1968 and 1976, a record that stood for 50 years. In 1970, the club was invited to play a series of exhibition matches in the U.S., an experience that allowed a young Best to compete against the world’s premier soccer players. ​Best faced off against Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pelé, who was already widely regarded as one of the greatest players in soccer history at the time. The up-and-coming star scored twice. ​“He came up to me and said, ‘Clyde, I’m the king. You’re now the prince,’” Best recalled of his post-match encounter with Pelé. “I will never forget that, because he was one of my heroes.” ​The film describes Best, typically the only Black face on the field or in stadiums throughout England, regularly enduring racist chants. Grounds crews often filled garbage bags with bananas that fans hurled onto the field. ​There were also written threats of violence, and Best said the only time he ever “lost it” was when a fan spat in his face. “If you let them know they can get in your head, they’re going to destroy you.” ​One interviewee noted that Best’s ability to meet adversity with excellence fostered opportunities for other Black players. The trailblazer said his dad would often remind him, “You’re not playing for yourself, you’re playing for the people coming after you.” Clyde Best (right) poses with a fan before a screening of his documentary. Best eventually became a fan favorite at Upton Park, his home field, and an inspiration to Black kids throughout England who saw someone who looked like them on television for the first time. However, racial tensions persisted, and he decided to pursue an opportunity in the NASL. ​His 88th-minute goal in his first year with the Rowdies secured a Soccer Bowl ‘75 victory in the team’s inaugural season. Best then led the club to an indoor title the following spring, and was named the tournament’s best player. ​Best’s presence helped attract other high-profile foreign athletes to the U.S., and he was instrumental in boosting the sport’s stateside popularity. The film ends by discussing lingering inequalities in professional sports and society. ​After the screening, Best said he hopes the documentary will help young people overcome negativity and challenges. He believes anyone can “make it to the top, if you put in the time and effort, pay attention, and do what you have to do.” ​“You have to be strong mentally,” Best said. “Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something in life.” ​Portland, Oregon, is the next stop on a North American film tour that Egan plans to eventually include every FIFA World Cup host city. He is also working on a publishing deal with streaming services, and pledged that “Transforming the Beautiful Game” will soon be available online. ​For more information about the documentary, visit the website here. In June 2024, the Tampa Bay Rowdies honored Clyde Best for his contribution to the club’s inaugural 1975 championship team during a special halftime celebration at Al Lang Field in St. Petersburg. Photo: Tampa Bay Rowdies. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. 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Muralist ZuluPainter stands with his work during the 2025 GBTB annual exhibit. Image courtesy of Green Book of Tampa Bay. Green Book of Tampa Bay (GBTB) and The Studio@620 will present the 6th Annual Art Opening Exhibit, Blooming in Black, on Saturday, May 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Studio@620. The exhibition commemorates Juneteenth through art, live performances, and conversation with artists whose work reflects identity, heritage, imagination, and possibility. Featuring Green Book-listed artists, Blooming in Black brings together a range of Black creative voices from the Tampa Bay area and places their work in a space built for community engagement. The show arrives as African and diaspora art continues to draw attention in a global art market still shaped by uneven representation. MoMAA’s African & Diaspora Art Market Outlook 2026 reported that the global art market declined 12 percent in 2024 to $57.5 billion, while African art showed signs of stability through sustained collector demand and comparatively strong sell-through rates. Dedicated Modern and Contemporary African Art sales at Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Bonhams, three of the world’s leading auction houses for fine art, antiques, and luxury collectibles, have generated more than $100 million since 2017, according to the report. Still, the market tells a more complicated story for Black American artists. The Outlook notes that Swann Galleries remains the only major auction house with a dedicated African American Art department. It also cites market share data showing that Black American women artists represent just 0.1 percent of total auction sales, while African American artists accounted for 1.2 percent of $14.6 billion spent at auction between 2008 and 2018. By 2023, that figure had moved closer to 2 percent. That context makes local platforms like Blooming in Black especially important. In Tampa Bay, the exhibition creates another path for Black artists to be seen, supported, and discussed within a cultural economy that has not always valued their work at the same level as their influence. Green Book of Tampa Bay was founded in 2019 and has long worked to uplift Black-owned businesses, artists, storytellers, and cultural spaces throughout the region. Pictured are GBTB co-founders Joshua Bean and Hillary Van Dyke. Image courtesy of J.A. Jones, photographer. For Green Book of Tampa Bay, the focus on arts and culture has become central to its mission. GBTB was founded in 2019 and has long worked to uplift Black-owned businesses, artists, storytellers, and cultural spaces throughout the region. Dr. Hillary Van Dyke, Co-Founder, Executive Director, and Board Vice President, shared that by 2021, the organization had already begun hosting art exhibitions and working with local artists, so the shift in mission to the current arts-centered direction builds on work that was already underway. Van Dyke said the shift was about making the organization’s work more focused and intentional. “At the end of the day, it was honestly about being able to have a more particular focus so we didn’t feel stretched thin, but could instead do one thing really well,” she noted. Van Dyke acknowledged that the organization’s new mission statement was revised to reflect the organization’s singular focus, but added, “I would say it’s too soon to answer about how it’s helping our business growth, but this is work we had already been doing.” Green Book's co-founder has, however, noticed some trends. “The main trend for us is that overall the interest in supporting our work has a lot of ebbs and flows,” she acknowledged, adding that over the last few years, “there’s definitely been a steady decline in the number of individuals and corporate interest in donating or sponsoring. So, we really had to hone in on our brand and be more intentional in trying to get grant dollars to supplement the shifting interest in donating.” Van Dyke, who is also a filmmaker, added that their art shows have always had steady attendance. “We’ve been able to help many emerging artists in the community experience being in their first art show. We have also welcomed back many repeat artists. Another component to our annual art show opening night is live performances and an artist panel, so the evening is just a love letter to Black artists in Tampa Bay.” The exhibit’s opening night includes a reception and artist panel. Image courtesy of Green Book of Tampa Bay. The opening reception will give guests a chance to view the exhibition, hear live performances, and speak with participating artists. Organizers describe the exhibition as a celebration of the beauty, resilience, and creative brilliance of Black artists in the community, with each piece offering a story rooted in culture, memory, and imagination. As Juneteenth approaches, Blooming in Black gives the community a place to gather around art that honors history while looking toward what is still growing. For Green Book of Tampa Bay, the exhibit is part of a larger effort to make sure Black artists, storytellers, and visionaries are visible in the region’s cultural record and supported in real time. Van Dyke also gave props to the event space, The Studio@620, noting, “We are incredibly grateful that the Studio has said yes to us for so many years to allow such a beautiful event to continue.” Tickets for the May 30th reception can be found at https://thestudioat620.org/events/blooming-in-black. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube MORE PHOTOS The exhibit’s opening night also includes performances by local musicians. Image courtesy of Green Book of Tampa Bay. Van Dyke and Bean have founded a space for Black artists in Tampa Bay to shine their light. Image courtesy of Green Book of Tampa Bay.

The 2026 Fabulous Five Females, from left: Jounice Nealy-Brown, attorney and shareholder with Gunster; Jennifer Yeagely, CEO of the St. Pete Free Clinic; Kay Bronstein, chair of the education committee at the Dali Museum; Delquanda Turner Smith, senior program officer at Pinellas Community Foundation and chief operating officer at Inclusivity LLC; and Lisa Brody, chief operating officer and general counsel for the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg. All photos: Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg. ​For the 18th year, Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg has recognized and celebrated five women leaders for their commitment to uplifting the surrounding community. The admiration is mutual. ​Academy Prep, a tuition-free, private middle school dedicated to inspiring and empowering economically disadvantaged students, hosted its annual Five Fabulous Females luncheon on Thursday at the Tradewinds Island Grand resort. Proceeds from the event support Academy Prep’s Student Scholarship Program and teens who may not succeed in traditional classroom settings. ​The school annually spotlights women in business, philanthropy, and education whose leadership, character, and accomplishments set an inspirational example for students. Board member Kimberly Jackson said Academy Prep honors those who are “authentic and give because they want to, not because they have to.” ​“The women we honored this year know the true meaning of being servant leaders,” Jackson said. “Our community is better because of them.” Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg is at 2301 22nd Ave. S. ​The 2026 Five Fabulous Female honorees are: ​Lisa Brody, chief operating officer and general counsel for the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg. Kay Bronstein, a trustee and chair of the education committee at the Dali Museum. Jounice Nealy-Brown, an attorney and shareholder with the law firm Gunster. Delquanda Turner Smith, senior program officer at Pinellas Community Foundation and chief operating officer for the Inclusivity LLC. Jennifer Yeagely, CEO of the St. Pete Free Clinic. Brody said her journey was shaped by family, mentors, and the surrounding community. She also noted the boost teens receive when someone realizes “your potential before you see it in yourself, and Academy Prep does that every single day.” ​The school offers scholarships to students who qualify for reduced or free lunches. Academy Prep’s supportive environment, rigorous programming, and ongoing graduate support have led to 98% of enrollees graduating from high school on time and 85% going on to college or military service. ​Brody called the sold-out event “very inspiring,” as students served as hosts and hostesses, interviewed the honorees, and eloquently introduced them to a packed crowd of approximately 375 people. “Right now, in our world, it just gives me hope,” she said. ​“These are the future leaders,” Brody added. “They may not even realize it now, the world doesn’t even know their names yet, but these youngsters are the future.” ​Brody, like her colleagues, preferred to discuss the school’s impact rather than what led to her recognition. She expressed appreciation for inclusion in yet another “very distinguished class.” ​“I feel honored and humbled to now be a part of that group of women,” Brody said of past cohorts. “Every single one of them is giving back and serving and working within our community.” ​Nealy-Brown called the recognition “absolutely unexpected and a little bit overwhelming.” She also appreciated the opportunity to show students that “once people pour into you, then you pour into other people.” ​Nealy-Brown said it takes community support for someone to become a leader, who should then return the favor. She believes that Academy Prep provides the fertilizer youth need to blossom. ​She noted that students everywhere “come to school with their circumstances on their backs.” Teens at Academy Prep receive a “concentrated, focused energy to adjust their mindset for success” and realize that “no matter what you’ve gone through, you are expected to be a productive, respectful, attentive citizen,” Nealy-Brown said. ​“They will carry those lessons with them for the rest of their lives and, hopefully, inspire other young people.” ​Yeagley found the recognition “incredibly meaningful,” as it came from an organization with an “amazing impact.” She said that standing alongside other honorees, all “powerful community leaders,” was humbling. ​Before the luncheon, Academy Prep pairs honorees with students, who then have an immersive experience at the school. Yeagley believes those meaningful connections provide students and honorees with a fresh, mutually beneficial perspective. ​Smith said events like the luncheon remind stakeholders that leadership is more than just titles or accomplishments. She emphasized the importance of “impact, compassion, and lifting others as we climb.” Those efforts are “not always found in grand gestures,” Smith added. She said leadership means consistency and “showing up for people, even when no one is watching.” ​“It is found in choosing to care, listening, and showing empathy, again and again,” Smith concluded. Current and previous Five Fabulous Females at the 2026 ceremony. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

From left: City Councilmembers Corey Givens Jr., Brandi Gabbard, and Deborah Figgs-Sanders discuss St. Petersburg’s proposed fiscal year 2027 operating budget on Thursday. Image: Screengrab. St. Petersburg is tightening its fiscal belt, as Mayor Ken Welch’s administration has tasked departmental leaders with submitting proposals for 3% and 5% budget reductions. ​Assistant City Administrator Tom Greene began an extensive city council workshop on Thursday by noting that the decreases have helped mitigate the gap between projected revenues and expenses. Residents will also see rates increase on everything from childcare services to stormwater bills in fiscal year 2027, which begins in October. ​The departmental cuts trimmed the preliminary general fund budget, which pays for all city services, from $444.54 million to $433.37 million. However, that is still 5.21% higher than what was adopted last year, and a $5 million funding gap remains. ​“We wanted to look for reductions that didn’t impact service delivery,” Greene said. “Although you might see some vacant positions eliminated, we believe it’s manageable.” A graphic highlighting that the fiscal year 2027 preliminary funding gap is significantly lower than at this point in 2025. All graphics: Screengrabs, city documents. ​The administration did not receive blowback for the personnel changes. Salaries and wages account for 69% of the city’s general fund budget. ​Officials plan to eliminate 19 vacant positions, Greene said, while adding 10 others. Councilmember Mike Harting called the impact negligible in a city with over 3,000 employees, and noted that “human capital” costs are still increasing by $24.5 million. ​“Everything is getting more expensive,” said Liz Makofske, budget director. “Just like in your everyday budget at home, to keep the same budget or the same services and things you have this year, it’s going to cost more next year.” ​Councilmember Corey Givens Jr. said municipal rate increases will affect residents citywide, “and the last thing we want to do is blindside people.” He emphasized the need for communication; the city will host public hearings in September before adopting the final budget. ​Givens also expressed concern over the amount of money spent on salaries. He believes administrators could identify additional positions for consolidation. ​“There are some roles where we have three people getting paid to do the same job,” Givens added. Property taxes support the general fund, and he also questioned what the city would do if the state, as long-discussed, passes legislation that could reduce or eliminate that revenue source this summer. A graphic highlighting various city expenditures. ​City Administrator Rob Gerdes said he is not aware of three people performing the same role, and would like to “take a closer look at that.” He also called the budget reductions a “good foreshadowing” of the city’s response to property tax reform. ​Gerdes said the city could have made additional cuts that officials will explore “if we get to a more significant situation.” That would likely include workforce reductions, due to the annual cost of salaries, benefits, and pensions. ​“The last thing I want to be communicated is that Councilmember Givens wants to take the chopping block to people’s jobs,” Givens added. “What I want to do is make sure we are being good fiscal stewards of taxpayer funds, and that includes making those managerial decisions that we have to make.” ​The administration has proposed increasing building permit costs by 25% and implementing a $15 technology fee. People would also pay an additional $1 to $3 to use three municipal golf courses. ​Makofske said residents at the city-owned Jamestown Apartments would see a “modest rental rate increase” that reflects market conditions and community upgrades when they renew their leases. A new service that allows residents to rent after-hours meeting rooms at the recently redeveloped Barack Obama Main Library for $110 or $120 per hour will help offset operating costs. ​The price to live aboard a vessel at the St. Petersburg Municipal Marina will increase by 10%, and rates for every department housed at the Municipal Services Center downtown will increase by 5%. Hourly parking rates along Central Avenue will increase by 50 cents. A list of services with proposed rate increases. Mike Jefferis, community enrichment administrator, said St. Petersburg hasn’t updated its childcare fees since 2022. He also noted that the city would continue subsidizing costs for families that qualify for free or reduced school lunches. ​For example, municipal after-school care for elementary-aged children would increase from $38 to $41 weekly. Those who receive free lunches would pay $14.35, and Jefferis pledged that his department will always work with families who cannot afford the cost. ​The city plans to continue offering free services for teens, Jefferis added, and subsidizes the cost for 78% of younger participants in afterschool and summer programs. “Prior to this mayor and council, there was a time when our department would take a 5% increase every year, and that made us very uncomfortable,” he said. ​“We take increases to childcare very seriously,” Jefferis continued. “We’re very intentional about those.” A proposed 6% cut to arts funding was a point of contention for several council members. Gerdes said each city administration had to explore reductions, and the mayor has yet to present his final proposed budget. ​Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders shared those concerns and advocated for the Arts Conservatory for Teens (ACT). She said the beneficial program impacts children that “not a lot of organizations can reach.” ​“It enhances their artistic skills, and it provides something out of the technology or AI or construction arena, so they can find a beneficial future,” Figgs-Sanders continued. “I can think of some other areas that we can possibly take the money from, that the city wouldn’t notice as much, but a lot of these do impact our youth.” ​​For more budget information, visit the website here. A graphic highlighting the amount of funding allocated to each city administration. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Olusope Otuyelu poses in front of her selection of loose-leaf tea. Image courtesy of Olusope Otuyelu. Discover an elevated drinking experience when you shop at Ojà Wellness Foods. Through their wide selection of loose-leaf teas that offer health-based benefits, Tampa Bay residents can be sure to find a satisfying cup of tea with Ojà Wellness Foods. Olusope "Show-Pay" Otuyelu co-founded the tea shop along with her sister, Mobolaji. Through her role, Otuyelu is responsible for leading product development, tea formulation, US-based partnerships, community engagement, and education practices. Otuyelu cites that the idea of Ojà was born out of a personal need to reconnect with wellness in a practical way. Her upbringing in Nigeria taught her to leverage tea as a tool of healing. In her home country, the usage of herbal remedies and teas was a natural part of everyday life; there was a universal acknowledgment that if you felt sick, taking herbal concoctions could make you feel better. While living in the U.S., Otuyelu saw a disconnect between herbal remedies and wellness. Through Ojà’s accessible loose-leaf tea products and educational awareness information, Otuyelu invites a way to make herbal wellness simple, accessible, and part of daily routines. “With knowledge comes enlightenment and being able to share with people. There are natural options, and looking at it purely from the benefits, the science, the function, and how accessible all of these things are,” said Otuyelu. In Yoruba, “Ojà” means marketplace and is traditionally located at the crossroads of villages. Markets represent a space for exchange in the forms of goods, knowledge, and community. Otuyelu intentionally named the tea brand after its namesake to create a space where people can access simple, effective wellness through tea. Olusope Otuyelu (middle) with customers. Image courtesy of Olusope Otuyelu. Ojà’s digital storefront features popular blends, including Highland Chai, Berry Lemon, Lemon Mint, and Anti-Inflammation Blend. These best-selling brews offer more than a delicious flavor; they are skillfully crafted to support stress relief, improved digestion, anti-inflammatory benefits, immune support, heart health, and more, depending on the blend. “We use whole, loose-leaf ingredients like hibiscus, ginger, lemongrass, and peppermint — herbs that have been used for generations. Because the teas are minimally processed, you're getting more of the natural compounds, which makes a difference in both flavor and effectiveness,” explained Otuyelu. Ojà’s teas are designed to support everyday wellness in an easy-to-maintain way. By pairing a daily tea routine with whole foods, physical activity, adequate sleep, and any interventions deemed necessary by your medical provider, Otuyelu believes consumers can drastically improve their quality of life and health. Olusope Otuyelu pours an attendee a cup of tea at her tea-tasting workshop. Image courtesy of Isis Climes. While a physical store is part of the business’s long-term vision, customers can also purchase on their website and at local pop-ups and markets throughout the Tampa Bay area. Beyond personal wellness, Otuyelu is motivated to invest in sustainable agriculture. She primarily sources from family-owned and government-owned farms in Nigeria and other West African countries such as Togo & Benin Republic, as well as from local trusted suppliers in Florida and throughout the U.S. “The quality of what we consume starts with how it's grown. That's a big part of our mission as we believe that wellness starts at the soil level and extends into our communities,” explained Otuyelu, “This allows us to maintain quality while staying connected to the cultural and agricultural roots of the ingredients we use.” Beyond their online presence, customers can experience Ojà through their local pop-ups, workshops, and guided tea tastings. Ojà’s next upcoming event, "Tea-tails Night," premieres next Friday, May 15th, 2026, at 6 p.m., at 1753 Prescott St S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712. Flyer for next Friday’s event, “Tea-Tails Night”. Image courtesy from Olusope Otuyelu. “Tea-Tails Night” is a tea mocktail (non-alcoholic) experience made with Ojà’s herbal blends. Guests can expect a relaxed social environment, a curated menu of tea-based mocktails and desserts, and a light introduction to the benefits and versatility of tea. Tickets are priced at $35, and the last day to purchase is next Wednesday, May 13. Stay connected with Ojà by following their Instagram or visiting their website for upcoming events and new releases. “We're continuing to expand our presence in the Tampa Bay area through pop-ups, workshops, and guided tea tastings focused on making herbal wellness more accessible. We're also growing our product line and building partnerships with local businesses,” said Otuyelu. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube Olusope Otuyelu showcases two of her popular blends: Roselle and Divine Balance. Image courtesy of Olusope Otuyelu.

Narja Campbell (left), owner of Campbell’s Catering and Son of a Brisket, recently returned from a trip to Germany. Photos courtesy of Narja Campbell. Narja Campbell never planned to open a food truck. Serendipity said otherwise, and he is now taking Son of a Brisket to Germany. ​The native Texan launched Tampa Bay-based Campbell’s Catering in 2019. However, something was missing: Authentic barbecue that would make his home state proud. ​An opportunity presented itself, Campbell explained, in the form of an aunt who had what he initially thought was a “little smoker on a trailer” for sale that could augment his catering menu. He purchased a full-fledged food truck instead, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. ​Campbell, undeterred, opened Son of a Brisket in late 2020. “It wasn’t something that was planned, but it was something that was in God’s plan,” he said of the food truck. ​Son of a Brisket subsequently exploded in popularity, but not before Campbell paid his dues by traveling to various apartment complexes throughout Tampa Bay and hawking barbecue.“That is how we got our name out in the community,” he said. ​The food truck soon became a fixture at the Saturday Shoppes and other area festivals and sporting events. Campbell’s family-owned business gained national exposure when the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg selected him to serve as the event’s sole barbecue vendor. ​“The community of St. Pete, if they support you, they go out and support you,” Campbell said. “St. Pete shows us love.” Narja Campbell also bottles his own sauces. ​Campbell hoped to parlay his experience with the Grand Prix into a spot at a prominent Oktoberfest in Germany. His brother-in-law owns three restaurants in the country and offered to help facilitate the food truck’s European debut. ​Those conversations soon evolved into an opportunity for a pop-up restaurant at one of his German brother-in-law’s establishments, Campbell said. A successful, month-long trial run that began in February sealed Son of a Brisket’s status as an international entity. ​“So, what we plan on doing is just a couple more pop-ups, then getting all the paperwork filled out, and then heading over to get an actual building,” Campbell said. “It feels good. It’s kind of surreal, all at the same time.” ​Campbell recalled an advisor welcoming him to the world of business ownership after securing his license in 2019. “And then seeing everything grow, the tears of joy, the tears of sadness, and flying across the pond to go and set up and do barbecue - it’s awesome. It’s a great feeling,” he said. ​A stateside brick-and-mortar location for Son of a Brisket is “definitely in the future,” Campbell said. “If I had my choice, I would open it up in St. Pete first.” A Son of a Brisket pop-up restaurant in Germany. ​Campbell, who also bottles his own sauce locally, credited his success to offering something not readily available in Tampa Bay. “I tell people all the time, being from Texas, it’s hard for me to find good barbecue out here,” he said. ​He also dispelled the myth that running a food truck is easy work. Campbell, who has 28 years of experience in the hospitality industry, noted that owners “wear every hat, from dishwasher to marketer.” ​When asked what he would say to others who hope to replicate his success, Campbell, who still operates his catering company, said: "Just don’t give up.” Most entrepreneurs will know if they made the right decision within the first year, and those who struggle should remember that most people “won’t even try.” ​“Once you figure out if it is going to be successful, then just attack it like you’ve never attacked anything else,” Campbell continued. “There’s going to be long nights, long days, sleepless nights, sleepless days, but it’s definitely worth it in the end.” Narja Campbell (right) at a business meeting in Germany. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Ken Babby (left), CEO of the Tampa Bay Rays, and Ken Atwater, President of Hillsborough College, field questions from the Tampa City Council on Tuesday night. Image: Screengrab. While details remain scarce, city officials and residents had their first opportunity to discuss a $2.3 billion stadium deal with the Tampa Bay Rays at a nearly four-hour-long workshop on Tuesday. ​Questions from Tampa’s City Council largely mirrored those recently posed at a Hillsborough County Commission meeting, and concrete answers were just as elusive. The negotiating parties still lack an agreed-upon memorandum of understanding (MOU), with less than a month until the team’s June 1 deadline to approve final agreements. ​A key difference between the two workshops was a public comment period that began at 7 p.m., two hours into the meeting, and ended at nearly 9 p.m. on Tuesday. Social media posts from the Rays urged fans, who heeded the call en masse, to attend and express their support for a deal that, so far, relies heavily on promises. ​Supporters, many donning Rays gear, vastly outnumbered those opposed to contributing $951 million in public funding - $750 million from the county and $251 million from the city - to a new ballpark. Local sports pundit J.P. Peterson said other cities eager to land a Major League Baseball team would happily pay a $2.5 billion expansion fee before even considering stadium costs. ​“We were gifted that; we have the Rays here, and people love them,” Peterson said. “And you are the stewards who are going to send this team to Orlando?” An aerial rendering of the stadium and surrounding $8 billion mixed-use district. Image: Tampa Bay Rays. ​Tampa resident Laura Lawson was among several people who said they “love the Rays” yet oppose the vague stadium financing structure. The team will contribute $1.235 billion and privately fund the surrounding mixed-use district. ​“You know where I love them? Over in St. Pete, where they can afford them,” Lawson said of the Rays. “I heard a lot of talk about ‘do no harm’ today, but … I think this is going to do significant harm to our budget.” ​Joe Robinson, chair of the West Tampa Community Advisory Committee, took a measured approach while expressing concern over the lack of details. He also noted that the Rays must adhere to the city’s community benefits ordinance. ​“I think the Rays have been genuine,” said Robinson, who remains undecided. “We’re not there yet. We might get there.” ​Rays CEO Ken Babby had 30 minutes to pitch his proposal to the council. Tampa Chief of Staff John Bennet provided a brief presentation followed by comments from project stakeholders, including the tax collector’s office, the firefighters and police unions, and the Florida Department of Transportation. ​Council members then had 30 minutes to submit questions or comments. Babby began by pledging that the project, according to independent studies, would generate an economic impact of $55-70 billion, support 11,900 new jobs, and attract 10 million annual visitors. ​He said “pillars” of a forthcoming community benefits agreement (CBA) would include a reimagined Hillsborough College campus, “real jobs with a pipeline of students,” new educational programs and apprenticeship opportunities, an unknown number of affordable housing units, and widened streets to accommodate an influx of traffic. ​“We’re committing tonight to invest in more than 25 parks for baseball and other sports,” Babby added. “We want to be great community partners in the way that we give back and engage.” ​Councilmember Naya Young asked if businesses owned by women and people of color would participate in the project as sub and prime contractors amid Florida’s war on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The college has requested $50 million in state funds to rebuild its campus. ​President Ken Atwater pledged that HC would continue doing “business with everybody” and follow current procurement processes, “which have been very successful in the past.” Babby said the Rays serve the entire Tampa Bay community and look forward to working with “businesses of all colors, all types, all walks of life.” ​“Hold us accountable; hold us responsible in our agreements,” Babby told the council. “When we sign them, they will have contractual commitments that we do what we say we’re going to do, but you’ve got to believe in the vision.” City Councilmember Naya Young questioned business participation goals, which the Tampa Bay Rays have yet to announce. Image: Screengrab. Gov. Ron DeSantis has long advocated for eliminating or reducing property taxes, which fund municipal projects, agencies, and services. State leadership will discuss those changes this summer, a prospect that loomed over the meeting. ​Councilmember Lynn Hurtak noted that the city would also use property taxes and the Community Investment Tax (CIT), a half-cent sales surcharge, to finance its contribution. “If the economy goes down, and our CIT does not make it above 3%, how are you going to pay for that?” she asked Babby. ​“We will get into the details of the financial agreement in the memorandum of understanding,” Babby replied. ​While negotiations are ongoing, Babby said the surrounding district would be “fully taxable.” The county would own the stadium, exempting it from property taxes. He pledged that city funding would only support infrastructure upgrades. ​Jennifer Castro, chief deputy tax collector, expressed concern over the team’s plan to demolish the agency's busiest office rather than include it in the surrounding district. She said the massive facility serves one million people annually, and replacing it would cost taxpayers $15-20 million. ​“If property tax reform eliminates or reduces our revenue … we may simply not have the budget to replace this building,” Castro said. “And there’s no state funding waiting to fill that gap.” ​The local police and fire unions generally support the deal, provided it includes guardrails that prevent any impacts to public safety funding. Councilmember Charlie Miranda offered the sharpest criticism. ​Miranda said Tampa achieved the nation’s second-highest credit rating due to its reserve funding, which the city could put toward its stadium contribution. He also noted it holds $2.8 billion in debt. ​Miranda questioned the team’s financial capacity to cover 54% of the stadium’s price tag, build a roughly $5 billion mixed-use district, and pay for all cost overruns. “When you buy a team for $1.7 billion, you should have the assets to do other things with it,” he said. A rendering of the surrounding district, which the team believes will attract 10 million annual visitors. Image: Tampa Bay Rays. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the importance of uplifting neighborhoods during her State of the City address on Tuesday. All photos: City of Tampa. Mayor Jane Castor chose a unique venue for her seventh, and likely last, State of the City address - a sparkling new community center in underserved East Tampa. ​Castor told attendees who packed the Fair Oaks Community Center on Tuesday that the centerpiece of a $34.7 million project completed in December represented the city’s ongoing efforts to invest in its residents. She called the 33,055-square-foot facility “a promise delivered.” ​The event’s theme was “Built to Last,” and Castor, whose second and final term ends on May 1, 2027, highlighted the progress she has made toward achieving that goal. She credited investments in infrastructure, housing, and, perhaps most importantly, people, for the city’s success. ​“What we are building is not temporary,” Castor said. “It is built to last, built for our residents, built for our neighborhoods, built for the future of this city, because the story of Tampa has always been a story of people who believe in this city and work together to make it stronger.” ​The center, part of the new 10.25-acre East Tampa Recreation Complex, in the heart of a community redevelopment area, featured prominently at the event. Students from nearby Potter Elementary School recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Students from Potter Elementary School in East Tampa. ​Castor noted that East Tampa is rich with history, culture, and talent, yet municipal officials overlooked the area for far too long. She said the new complex, a “regional jewel in our park system,” embodies a commitment to “investing in the people and places that built this city.” ​“When cities invest in neighborhoods, something powerful happens,” Castor continued. “Families want to live nearby, businesses want to open up, neighborhood pride grows, and opportunity follows.” ​After assuming office in 2019, the former police chief set an ambitious goal to create 10,000 affordable housing units. Over 8,300 have been completed or are underway. ​A “beautiful mixed-income community” in East Tampa, a reimagined Robles Park, will soon provide 2,000 additional homes. Castor said the city has dedicated $100 million to affordable developments and housing assistance since 2019, as the region’s population and living costs spiked. ​Tampa has approved nearly $22 billion in construction permits since Castor took office, including 23,000 new market-rate housing units. However, she is particularly proud of investing in programs that offer East Tampa residents housing rehabilitation and down payment assistance, and foster homeownership opportunities. ​Castor said Tampa’s growth “isn’t just about buildings.” The goal is to ensure residents can stay, work, and improve their lives in the city. ​“Tampa’s strength has always come from the people who take a chance; who open up a business, create something new, and invest in our community,” Castor said. “That’s especially true for our small businesses. They create jobs, they support families, they bring life to our neighborhoods.” Jane Castor (center) will complete her second term as mayor on May 1, 2027. ​Port Tampa Bay now generates a $34.6 billion annual economic impact and supports over 192,000 jobs. Tampa International Airport is undergoing a “world-class expansion” and boasts more non-stop flights than ever before, Castor added. ​Building a city to last starts with the basics, Castor said, and water mains were breaking almost daily when she assumed office. The city has since spent over $3 billion replacing functionally obsolete pipes in “one of the largest investments in Tampa’s history.” ​The city has also replaced 78 miles of aging water lines and rehabilitated 210 miles of wastewater piping, all while ensuring utility rates remain among the region’s lowest, Castor said. “These upgrades have prevented leaks, reduced sink holes, conserved water, improved reliability, and protected against costly failures.” ​Castor noted that Tampa is building the world’s largest Suspended Ion Exchange water treatment facility to remove “forever chemicals.” In addition to improving water quality, the technology will save taxpayers over $2 million annually by reducing the need for chemical treatments, she said. ​The city is moving forward with the final piece of its South Tampa stormwater system, along South Howard Avenue, Castor announced. While it would be “far easier to shelve that project for years of additional studies and delays,” she said, flooding does not “wait for a consensus.” ​Tampa has paved 310 miles of streets, repaired 100 miles of sidewalks, and added 56 miles of bike lanes since 2019, Castor said. The city is also expanding its free TECO Streetcar service, now a “vital transportation option” connecting downtown, the Channel District, and Ybor City. ​Castor also expressed excitement for the new Tampa Bay Ferry. She said regional stakeholders have committed to making the service, which will offer lower fares and exponentially more trips than its predecessor, a “real option for commuters in the Bay Area.” ​“We are going to keep investing, keep building, keep moving forward, because this isn’t about one moment,” Castor concluded. “We are honoring our past, we are embracing our future, and together, we are building the greatest Tampa yet.” City officials and project stakeholders cut a ceremonial ribbon for the $34.7 million East Tampa Recreation Complex following Mayor Jane Castor’s address. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Mayor Ken Welch launched the St. Pete Agile Resilience (SPAR) Plan in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. How to fund the program remains an issue. Photo: City of St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg residents must decide how they prefer to pay for critical upgrades to storm, waste, and drinking water systems amid increasing environmental threats. ​A bond issuance, funded by a new property tax, could finance up to $600 million in St. Pete Agile Resilience (SPAR) projects. However, that requires voters to approve a ballot referendum in November. If approved, property owners would pay an additional $96 annually for every $100,000 of taxable value. ​The alternative is to charge the average utility customer an additional $486.12 annually. Administrators outlined the more cost-effective bond proposal, which would provide immediate funding to accelerate projects that increase resiliency, to city council members at a committee meeting on April 23. While there is a consensus on the benefits of a bond issuance, Mayor Ken Welch’s administration is still determining which projects are feasible and deserve prioritization. Some council members expressed concern with that process, the referendum’s language, and the city’s potentially confusing messaging to voters. ​“The constituent that is going to vote on this – that is ultimately going to be responsible financially for this – doesn’t interpret everything it has taken the last hour for us to even understand,” said Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders. “I just want to be mindful of the terminology we use.” ​City officials will discuss a communication plan on May 14, and the full council must approve the ballot question at a later date. The draft version currently states: ​“Shall the city finance storm resilience improvements, including but not limited to, floodwater protection, stormwater pump stations, drainage infrastructure, as well as wastewater collection and treatment facilities, drinking water distribution and supply facilities, by issuing general obligation bonds in one ore series, not exceeding $600,000,000, bearing interest not exceeding maximum legal rates, maturing not more than 30 years from each issuance date, pledging the city’s full faith, credit, and unlimited ad valorem taxing power?” The city could install flood gates to help prevent extremely high tides from inundating flood-prone neighborhoods. Photo: City documents. ​Stormwater and wastewater infrastructure would each receive 42% of the funding. The remaining 16% would go toward drinking water infrastructure, although those proportions are subject to change. ​Public Works Administrator Claude Tankersley noted that the city has already completed some SPAR projects. Those include installing flood barriers at the Northeast Water Reclamation Facility and a sewage lift station, and drainage improvements along 9th Avenue and 37th Street North. ​Multiple other SPAR initiatives, such as a citywide private lateral rebate program and a $35 million effort to enhance infrastructure reliability at the low-lying Northeast Water Reclamation Facility, are underway. Tankersley said the bond issuance would allow the city to “undertake large-scale resiliency upgrades now, rather than delay projects to pay as you go through utility rates.” ​“While pay as you go avoids interest payments, it does carry a high risk of inflation, construction delays, and in many cases, higher total costs due to rising material and labor prices,” Tankersley explained. ​He also noted that not all property owners are city utility customers. Tankersley said using a combination of those fees and property taxes to fund a total of $2.7 billion in proposed SPAR projects through 2050 would ensure the cost is distributed equitably. ​Potential drainage investments include upsizing pipes and culverts, widening ditches, and creating new bypass routes. The administration is also considering expanding capacity in canals, creeks, and ditches and installing new stormwater pump stations. ​Tankersley said the city is exploring flood gate systems that use structural barriers to prevent extremely high tides from inundating flood-prone neighborhoods like Clam Bayou and Shore Acres. He called those the “most ambitious” potential SPAR projects. ​To reduce drinking water disruptions during severe weather events, the city could replace aging storage tanks, elevate critical treatment equipment, and install permanent generators to protect against power outages. Tankersley also highlighted several upgrades that could reduce sewer backups and overflows. ​“I think it would be helpful to be clear and use examples of things we’re already doing, and get away from talking about what we might do,” said Councilmember Gina Driscoll. “So, the story that we tell about what this is going to be for, the more prescriptive it can be, the more restrictive it can be. The more accountability we show that will be there, the better the chances of getting this passed.” ​Driscoll and several of her colleagues also took issue with a map in the presentation that pinpointed locations of SPAR projects. Councilmember Brandi Gabbard noted that 95% of her district is within a Coastal High Hazard Area, yet accounts for just 8% of the proposed initiatives. ​Administrators explained that many projects would benefit multiple districts downstream. Councilmember Richie Floyd said wastewater upgrades will have a nearly citywide impact, which maps should reflect. ​“I care what the radius is, what the area is of our residents who are going to be helped by this,” Driscoll said. “That is the story that needs to be told over and over and over again.” A map highlighting near-term St. Pete Agile Resiliency (SPAR) projects. Red stars denote those funded by general obligation (GO) bonds and federal disaster relief funding, and purple stars indicate those funded through utility fees. Image: City documents. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Stakeholders from Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Hubbard’s Marina, the Tampa Bay Ferry’s operator, joined Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority leadership on Monday to outline the new service’s benefits. Photo: PSTA. A revamped, year-round ferry service connecting downtown Tampa and St. Petersburg will feature two vessels, $10 fares, and traverse the bay seven days a week. ​Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) leadership unveiled a much-anticipated vision for the new Tampa Bay Ferry at a press conference on Monday. The service, expected to launch by the end of the year, represents a significant upgrade over its privately-owned predecessor, the Cross Bay Ferry, which shuttered in May 2025. ​Stakeholders from Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Hubbard’s Marina, the Tampa Bay Ferry’s operator, joined PSTA on Monday to outline the new service’s benefits. The agency’s board will vote on a plan to purchase and renovate two vessels using a $4.8 million federal grant on Wednesday. ​“The ferry service will most definitely strengthen the connection between the City of St. Petersburg, Tampa, and the broader Tampa Bay region,” said PSTA Board Chair Deborah Figgs-Sanders. “We’ve been mindful that we wanted to not only make it accessible, but we also wanted to make it affordable.” From left: St. Petersburg City Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders, chair of PSTA’s governing board; Vice Chair Tom Reid; and CEO Brad Miller at the Tampa Convention Center dock site on Monday. Photo: Facebook. ​Operated by Boston-based HMS Ferries, the Cross Bay began offering seasonal waterborne transportation between downtown Tampa and St. Petersburg in 2016. In March 2025, the embattled company announced plans to replace its catamaran-style vessel with one that cruises at about half the speed. ​Hillsborough County terminated its operating agreement with HMS Ferries the following month. The Cross Bay subsequently ended before the long-awaited start of year-round service, and PSTA is now leading the development of a new service. ​In December 2025, PSTA’s board unanimously selected Hubbard’s Marina, acting as Tampa Bay Sea Taxi, to operate a new and improved ferry service. The family-owned company’s name has been synonymous with local waterborne activities for nearly a century. ​PSTA now believes it can acquire and refurbish two suitable vessels, once an uncertainty, with the federal grant. That will ensure more frequent trips than the Cross Bay, which relied on one boat. ​“This is historic, because up until now, the vessels that we have been using for the Cross Bay Ferry service were from out of town,” said CEO Brad Miller. “They were from Boston, and they were on loan here only during the winter season.” ​PSTA’s board has already approved the purchase of a 250-person vessel, dubbed the Bay Breeze, from the San Francisco Ferry service. The total cost to acquire and refurbish the ship, which holds 101 more passengers than the Cross Bay, is $2.5 million. The previously approved Bay Breeze, which can cruise at 28 knots (32.2 mph). Photo: PSTA. Hubbard’s Marina and PSTA staff have also identified the Seattle-based San Juan Clipper ($2 million) and the Candy Stripe ($2.3 million), docked in Morgan City, Louisiana, as potential additions to the Tampa Bay Ferry’s fleet. Stakeholders will rename the selected vessel at a formal ceremony.​PSTA is targeting a $10 one-way ticket price, $2 cheaper than the Cross Bay’s fares. Seniors will receive a 50% discount. ​Both vessels will feature a bar with snacks, kid-friendly drinks, and adult beverages. The boats will dock at the east end of the Tampa Convention Center, the site of Monday’s press conference. ​The Tampa Bay Ferry will utilize a temporary dock along the Vinoy Yacht Basin in downtown St. Petersburg. A permanent home for multiple vessels at the St. Peter Pier is currently in the design and engineering phase. ​“When you look around, we’re surrounded by water,” said Tampa City Council Chair Alan Clendenin. “It is a no-brainer that we should be using these waterways as transit options. To have two vessels being able to go between our downtown business cores – it is going to be an amazing step forward in how we move people.” ​Figgs-Sanders said the more reliable service will also enhance workforce mobility by offering residents a convenient commuting option to job centers across the bay. Tampa Councilmember Lynn Hurtak said the region is at its best when the Cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg work together to achieve a common goal. ​The two anchor cities will each contribute $350,000 annually to the Tampa Bay Ferry service. “Long-term, this entire region needs more transportation options,” Hurtak said. ​“We’re working hard on rail; we’re working hard on getting things going,” she added. “But this will happen immediately, and that is really critical and crucial.” PSTA CEO Brad Miller said he preferred the San Juan Clipper, which can hold up to 149 people and requires less retrofitting than the Candy Stripe. Share Your News With Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokermagazine.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube.

Empath Health quietly restructured its “access and engagement” operations, leading to an outpouring of community concerns. All photos: Empath Health. Empath Health, which has long touted its inclusive culture and emphasis on engaging underserved communities, just gutted the team responsible for both – without notice. ​The organization quietly restructured its “access and engagement” operations, formerly housed under its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) umbrella, with severance agreements and fear of reprisals preventing those affected from commenting publicly. ​Word of the departures and changes spread on April 18, after representatives of Clearwater-based Empath atypically skipped the annual African American Health Forum, held that morning. Esther Sanni, president of the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP, confirmed the rumors that day and noted that most of the casualties were “trusted and culturally connected leaders within our Black community” in a subsequent social media post. ​“The key things that really hit me are the loss of local voices and community-rooted leadership,” Sanni told Power Broker Magazine. “I really feel like, because of that, there is a true loss of the cultural piece.” ​The layoffs extend from the top down. For example, Empath has disconnected the office number for Karen Davis-Pritchett, vice president of engagement and access, who received the National Council for Negro Women (NCNW) – St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section’s 2026 Humanitarian Award for her work in the community. Seven affected employees described a “very cold method” of restructuring and a toxic culture, Sanni said. Some were released, and others transitioned from full-time to a contractual basis, leaving them in a state of ambiguity. Most were either people of color or women. One was a veteran. Sanni questioned why the nonprofit’s leadership did not delay the transition until after last Saturday’s vital forum on health disparities or notify the organizers of their planned absence. ​“I think it speaks to the fact that the majority of these individuals are not from our community, and so they’re not aware of what’s taking place and what’s important,” Sanni added. “I think it also raises bigger issues. In particular, it touches on transparency, intentionality, and equity.” ​Empath, which recently merged with West Palm Beach-based Trustbridge Hospice to form Florida’s largest not-for-profit post-acute care provider, did not respond to multiple requests for an interview. ​​The integration with Trustbridge has been two years in the making. Empath could have previously considered how the restructuring would impact employees and the community it has pledged to serve, Sanni said. ​The overhaul coincides with the state’s ongoing efforts to prohibit DEI efforts, which could impact Empath’s licensing and funding streams if it were found to violate state laws. When asked if she thought that influenced the layoffs, Sanni said, “You can connect the dots.” ​“I’m curious if funding was being affected or being threatened, or did they just make a decision to quietly adjust to avoid any level of negative fallout,” she continued. ​Sanni believes the ongoing losses and changes have affected morale, which will cause patient care to suffer. She also wonders “who is at the table now, who is not at the table, and what connection do they have to St. Petersburg?” ​Empath’s response ​In a social media reply to the NAACP, Empath acknowledged that those who left were “trusted partners within your community.” The organization also understands the impact caused by their absence, “especially without proactive communication.” The NAACP wrote that while transitions happen, the lack of communication has impacted families, churches, and community partners who “rely on these relationships for guidance, trust, and support.” ​Sanni separately noted that “trust is already fragile” between marginalized communities and healthcare providers. Empath acknowledges that reality on its website, which states that “community-rooted healthcare takes decades to build,” yet has eroded that progress, she said. ​Empath CEO Jonathan Fleece addressed the still-evolving situation in a letter to employees, obtained by Power Broker Magazine, on Wednesday. He said the organization made difficult decisions to restructure “some of our support services as part of a broader set of deliberate actions to improve how we serve our communities, operate, focus resources, and ensure long-term sustainability.” ​Fleece, who frequently attended events supported by the access and engagement team, said Empath is consolidating functions, leaving some roles unfulfilled, and “eliminating a limited number of positions where necessary.” The organization will integrate community engagement into “more roles across the organization,” he wrote. ​“This is not a reflection of the dedication, talent, or impact of the individuals affected in this or other departments,” Fleece added. “We are deeply grateful for their contributions.” ​He also directly addressed the NAACP. Fleece said he takes the organization’s concerns regarding community representation and inclusion seriously, and “will be addressing them in a way that is true to Empath’s mission, vision, and values.” ​Sanni said now is the time for all stakeholders to “speak up and speak truth” about their experiences with Empath. She also encourages former staff to stay connected with one another and remain grounded, aware, and proactive rather than reactive. In a letter to employees, Empath Health CEO Jonathan Fleece said the organization made difficult decisions to restructure support services “as part of a broader set of deliberate actions to improve how we serve our communities.” All photos: Empath Health What’s next? Advocacy groups are reviewing an influx of community feedback to determine next steps. “We’ll show up when needed,” Sanni said. In a subsequent statement to the Power Broker, Tim Trodden, chief people officer for Empath, expressed a commitment to “listening and working together in service to our community.” He said the organization welcomes the opportunity for an in-person conversation with the NAACP. Kelly Garrett, who has served as a community partner specialist at Empath for several years, is leading the organization’s transition. “She will be reaching out to partners directly,” Trodden said. “Across our 11 local boards, we’ve made strides toward representation that better matches our communities, and are doing the same at the parent board level,” Trodden added. “Any community leader, elected official, clergy member, or partner who wants to speak with Empath is welcome to reach out to us directly.” For questions, comments, or to share your perspective, contact community@empathhealth.org. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

LaShante Keys (center), founder and CEO of CommunityEFX, organized the inaugural event in 2025. Photos: CommunityEFX. ​A free, high-impact event rooted in the belief that men deserve to be celebrated and supported – rather than simply tolerated – is returning to St. Petersburg. ​The Cookout: A Celebration of Brotherhood, will take over the University of South Florida St. Petersburg’s waterfront campus on Saturday, May 2, from 2 p.m until 6 p.m. Men of all ages can expect to find a safe, supportive space dedicated to their wellness and growth. ​LaShante Keys, founder and CEO of CommunityEFX, organized the inaugural event in 2025 due to the lack of opportunities for men to “just relax and enjoy ourselves.” The Cookout will feature complimentary food and refreshments, live entertainment and music, chair massages and wellness services, health screenings, haircuts, golf simulators and interactive games, a kids zone, and a relaxing lounge experience on Bayboro Harbor. ​“It’s four hours of just some type of peace of mind where we’re not responsible for anything,” Keys said. “We’re not responsible for being anybody; we’re not responsible for taking care of anybody. Just four hours of getting pampered, in a sense.” The 2025 event was held outside the Mahaffey Theater. ​CommunityEFX is a nonprofit dedicated to creating meaningful, culturally-rooted experiences that strengthen connections. The Cookout embodies that mission. ​While all are welcome to attend the event, complimentary services and activations are only for men. Keys believes the rare opportunity to “just really be happy” in a public space provides a boost to mental health. ​He noted that men are typically only celebrated on Father’s Day, and having a date to circle on the calendar can make life’s stressors easier to manage. “If I know I’m getting poured into in a positive way, then I’ll feel good about moving forward,” Keys explained. ​“If the negative stuff that goes on in your life can feed you, the positive stuff can feed you as well, and just give you that balance.” ​Keys pledged that The Cookout would offer something for everyone, from babies to the elderly. The event features childcare services, as “people forget that there are fathers who are taking care of their kids.” Additional games include an inflatable ax-throwing arena. Pinellas Technical College is hosting a barber and grooming station. Massages are among the many complimentary services offered at The Cookout. ​An aromatherapy area is a new offering for the second-annual event, and attendees can play card games in the waterfront lounge. A complimentary food hall will feature culinary delights from Ameenah’s Catering and Twisted Indian. ​Keys said a DJ will play “really positive music” for men. For example, “No Scrubs” by TLC is not on the playlist. ​The venue selection is also intentional. Keys said the goal is to “expose people to different spaces that they may not have ever discovered or been to before.” The Mahaffey Theater hosted the previous event. ​The Cookout was initially geared towards African American and Hispanic males. However, Keys said he wanted to expand the event to welcome fathers of all ethnicities. ​“Fathers are just as invisible as anybody else,” Keys continued. “We just want to make sure that everybody feels great about themselves.” ​Over 200 men attended the 2025 event. Keys said he also eagerly anticipates an opportunity to relax and reset at The Cookout. “We deserve this,” Keys said. “We deserve to find some peace somewhere, and that’s what we’re here for.” ​He noted that most of the event’s volunteers are women, who understand its focus. “Ladies, we love you, we appreciate you, but this is a day for the guys.” ​The Cookout will also feature intentional spaces for relationship-building, community dialogue, and shared learning. Sponsors include the City of St. Petersburg and Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg. ​Event partners include USF St. Petersburg and 101.5 The Vibe. “We just want people to come out and really enjoy themselves, and just relax a little bit,” Keys said. ​To register for the free event, visit the website here. Mayor Ken Welch (right) speaks with volunteers at the inaugural event. Share Your News With Us To share news with the Power Broker, email us at reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokermagazine.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube. More Photos Some attendees prefer to simply relax at The Cookout. The Cookout’s organizers will select unique venues to expose attendees to new spaces. Most of the event’s volunteers are women, who can attend The Cookout but not receive complimentary services or participate in activations.

“All Power to the People: Arts & Letters Cultural Experience” event flyer. Image Courtesy of St. Petersburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta. With the midterm election season fast approaching, voter registration is a vital issue, and Get Out the Vote (GOTV) events are starting to pick up steam. The St. Petersburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (SPAC) is working to raise awareness and engagement on the topic through their event, “All Power to the People: Arts & Letters Cultural Experience.” This free event will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM at ARK Innovation Center, 1104 4th St. S., St. Petersburg, FL. A midterm election is an election held halfway through a president’s four-year term and conducted statewide. The ballot for the 2026 U.S. Congress is composed of all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and one-third of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate. Citizens have two opportunities to vote during the midterm elections: the primary and the general. In a primary election, a party selects a candidate for the general election, and citizenscan vote for a candidate on the ballot. During a general election, citizens vote for the federal, state, and local officials. Each state's election dates vary - you can check Florida's election schedule here and those running for candidacy on the ballot here. The St. Petersburg Deltas are a local non-profit devoted to promoting academic excellence and community uplift through their Five-Point Programmatic Thrust: education, economics, physical and mental health, international engagement, and social action. Delta members of the St. Petersburg Alumnae Chapter actively work to spread knowledge and information to their local community, while simultaneously addressing social issues through various community events. The “All Power to the People: Arts & Letters Cultural Experience” opens the door to conversation and observation on the country's political landscape. This event mobilizes young voters through an innovative cultural experience featuring art, music, storytelling, and dialogue to inspire the next generation to exercise their right to vote. St. Pete Delta member Deborah Sheppard-Brooks serves as the chair for the Arts & Letters Committee. Her responsibilities include coordinating local events and planning community highlights of African Americans’ contributions to the Arts, including past and present contributions to the creative humanities, with an emphasis on African American women. Sheppard-Brooks encourages young people to attend next Friday's event. She believes it is crucial that the younger generation understand the full scope of their voting rights and invites them to an open dialogue on the power they hold to change the country. “We hope those who attend leave feeling proud, informed, and encouraged. We want young people to know their voices matter, their vote has power, and they have a role to play in shaping what happens next in their community,” said Sheppard-Brooks. Every U.S. citizen will be affected by the decisions and results of elections: jobs, public safety, health care, housing, and more. Therefore, Sheppard-Brooks hosts this event to remind the community that every vote and voice matters. “It is also important because this event brings people together in a way that feels welcoming and meaningful. Through art, music, history, and conversation, we can help people feel connected, informed, and ready to take action,” said Sheppard-Brooks. The Arts and Letters Committee spreads awareness and community engagement by utilizing culture to open doors to important conversations. Through music, art, and cultural performances, SPAC's committee uniquely crafted storytelling that connects history and community issues in intimate, personal ways. “It is a chance to celebrate our culture, honor the Civil Rights Movement, and remind our young people that they have a voice and a place in the future of this community. Young people, elders, artists, and community members can share space, learn from one another, and leave with a stronger sense of pride, connection, and responsibility,” explained Sheppard-Brooks. The event will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the ARK Innovation Center, 1104 4th St. S., St. Petersburg. Come ready to listen, learn, and immerse yourself in a cultural experience —leave feeling encouraged and involved in your community. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

From 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 park was named in honor of Salcines’ father, Emiliano. All photos: City of Tampa. Salcines Park, named after a Hispanic civic leader and once considered the gateway to West Tampa, has a new lease on life after falling into disrepair. ​The city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) recently completed a $1.4 million revitalization project at Salcines Park. Local officials and stakeholders celebrated the 6,000-square-foot urban amenity’s transformation at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 28. ​Dedicated in 1991, the park honors West Tampa icon Emiliano Salcines, who immigrated to the area from Cuba in 1918 and opened a department store on the site that subsequently became a cultural and political hub for immigrants. The city began a full redesign of the popular gathering space in April 2025 to ensure it remains vibrant and safe. ​“Salcines Park, an important part of our history, has been beautifully renovated and is now ready for present and future generations to enjoy,” said CRA Chair Luis Viera. “The CRA continues to make life better, neighborhood by neighborhood.” The entrance to a reimagined Salcines Park. The project overhauled the park’s configuration while integrating new infrastructure to support daily use. Crews installed new steel pergolas to provide shade over tables and swinging benches, and improved fencing that matches the historic district’s character. ​New lighting will also improve safety and visibility, while cafe-style tables and benches provide a welcoming atmosphere for community gatherings. Visitors will also see fresh landscaping, concrete, and pavers. The blue-and-white “Faces of West Tampa” mural remains a prominent feature. ​Additional upgrades include interactive game tables and fountains atop the red-brick columned entrance at 1705 N. Howard Ave. The city gutted the area before launching the renovation project. Attendees pose in front of the “Faces of West Tampa” mural, painted by Michelle Sawyer and Tony Kroll in 2018. ​The restoration is part of ongoing efforts to revitalize the area. City officials unveiled a revamped Herman Massey Park, another CRA-funded project, a week before reopening Salcines Park. ​Born in Spain in 1900, Emiliano Salcines moved to Cuba at 14 to work in a dry goods store run by his brothers. He arrived in Tampa following World War I despite not speaking English. ​Salcines opened the West Tampa Department Store in 1941, which flourished and became a neighborhood landmark. He and his wife, Juanita, sold the business and retired in 1964. ​Known as the “Mayor of West Tampa,” Salcines died in 1990. Tampa dedicated the park on his birthday, Feb. 9, 1991, at the site where his department store stood until the early 1970s. His son, former Judge E.J Salcines, noted that his father also organized the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce and Optimist Club. ​“My parents, who are up here, are looking down very proud that West Tampa has not forgotten them,” said Salcines, pointing to the heavens. Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency Chair Luis Rivera (right) helps former Judge E.J. Salcines to the podium. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube More Photos A marker denoting the site’s history as a political and cultural hub for immigrants. City officials and stakeholders cut a ceremonial ribbon for Salcines Park.

Pinellas County Commissioner Renee Flowers chairs the Human Rights Board and is a staunch supporter of the office it governs. Photo by Mark Parker. ​Pinellas County is no longer considering dismantling the department responsible for protecting residents from several forms of discrimination after an independent report highlighted its value. ​Commissioner Chris Scherer recommended eliminating the Office of Human Rights in August 2025, amid Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) audits and efforts to lower property taxes. The department ensures fair access to local employment, housing, government assistance, and public accommodations, works to recover wage theft, and offers anti-harassment training. ​Scherer thought that state and federal agencies could fill the void left by eliminating the office and transferring employees, saving the county $1.5 million annually. He expressed a change of heart at a commission workshop on Thursday. ​“They do a lot of great work,” Scherer said of the office. “And I learned that myself.” Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Schere proposed abolishing the Office of Human Rights in August 2025. Image: Screengrab. Pinellas was required to establish its Office of Human Rights in 1977 following threats of a lawsuit by the U.S. Department of Justice over discriminatory hiring practices. A federal court order in 2014 released the county from that mandate. ​In 2016, commissioners passed an ordinance that restructured the department and established a governing Human Rights Board. Commissioner Renee Flowers is the chairperson. After Thursday’s workshop, Flowers said the partnership between the office, Pinellas County Government, 27 municipalities, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a “prime example of what it means to be accessible and available to serve and improve the quality of life for residents.” “The task is to ensure that an avenue exists for residents to seek a solution to an unimaginable concern,” Flowers told Power Broker Magazine. “I could not be more proud to serve as its chairman, and will continue to advocate for an office comprised of people who desire to see to the needs of people.” ​Scherer’s formal recommendation to restructure the office received little support from his colleagues on the commission in August, despite state leadership also advocating for similar departmental cuts and property tax reductions. However, the commission agreed to further discuss the office’s future at another workshop. ​“Last year, you asked us to look at the Office of Human Rights and what they did, and whether the program was needed, either in part or in whole,” County Administrator Barry Burton said Thursday. “As we began looking at this, it got really complicated really quickly, because they do a lot of things …” ​For example, Burton said the office helps secure grants and works closely with the transportation department. He hired an independent firm, Local Government Solutions (LGS), to compile data and present a report. ​Alan Rosen, CEO of LGS, explained that the Office of Human Rights has a decentralized governance structure. In addition to Flowers and Burton, its governing board includes the county’s clerk of the circuit court, supervisor of elections, tax collector, property appraiser, and multiple other local officials. ​Flowers said several board members expressed support for the office before the workshop. She also noted that the county’s Council for Persons with Disabilities operates under the Office of Human Rights umbrella, and her appointee, St. Petersburg Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders, attended the meeting in a show of solidarity. Rosen noted that the office’s budget will decrease by $89,000 in fiscal year 2027. He said revenues, which depend on federal reimbursement timelines, are extremely volatile. ​Limited recommendations included increasing cost-recovery efforts, whether through government funding or businesses found liable for wage theft. “The main point here is what happens to your customers if you decide you don’t want to do these programs,” Rosen said. A graphic highlighting that the county could save $120,000 annually by eliminating a program that ensures compliance with disability laws, but risks losing approximately $160 million in federal funding. Image: County documents. Some local, state, and national initiatives, including fair access to housing and employment, overlap. Rosen said the primary difference is that the county works with small organizations, unlike the federal government, to find resolutions. ​In addition, the office offers a significantly faster response time. “As you know, if you’ve worked in housing or homelessness, every day counts when you’re in that situation,” Rosen said. ​The state does not offer a wage theft program, and the federal government will only address businesses with over $500,000 in annual revenue. The only recourse for affected residents would then be a civil suit, and most attorneys will not take their case as the “threshold for them making any money is so low.” ​“You’re balancing cost savings against access and timelines and local control of services,” he said of the office’s potential dissolution. ​Flowers said that prospect was “very concerning” for the department’s staff. They “stayed on board and have continued to do their jobs with a level of excellence that goes above and beyond,” despite the resulting angst. ​Commissioner Chris Latvala said he “certainly would not support getting rid of those services.” Scherer expressed the importance of periodically evaluating departments. ​“When I originally looked at the department, I saw a lot of overlapping jurisdictions and expenses; I still do,” Scherer added. “But if nobody has any interest in eliminating the duplicative efforts … then that will be that.” A graphic highlighting that the county could save $90,000 annually by eliminating a program that ensures compliance with civil rights requirements, but risks losing approximately $160 million in federal funding. Image: County documents. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube More Photos A graphic highlighting that eliminating the local wage theft program would save roughly $173,000 annually but also increase barriers for affected residents. Image: County documents. A graphic highlighting that eliminating the fair employment program would save the county up to $270,128 annually but leave affected residents employed by a small business with no recourse. Image: County documents. A graphic highlighting that eliminating the Council for Persons with Disabilities could save the county $30,024 annually, which does not represent a full-time position.

Members of four previously shortlisted development teams vying to reimagine the Historic Gas Plant District, currently home to Tropicana Field, field questions at The Coliseum on Thursday night. All photos by Mark Parker. Several hundred St. Petersburg residents are still very much engaged in the latest effort to redevelop 86 hallowed acres – the Historic Gas Plant District. ​While it may have felt like déjà vu, stakeholders filled most of the 500 seats at The Coliseum on Wednesday evening to meet the development teams vying to reimagine the Gas Plant, currently home to Tropicana Field, and offer their feedback. Another 102 watched from home, according to the city. ​A similar scene unfolded in January 2023; residents had an hour to discuss the generational project with shortlisted developers, who then pitched their plans for the site, which was once home to the largest enclave of Black residents in St. Petersburg. The open-house-style event concluded with an economic-impact-focused question-and-answer session. ​“I think folks were informed by the last process,” Mayor Ken Welch told Power Broker Magazine after the event. “I think from that past experience, folks were asking more definitive questions.” Mayor Ken Welch (front, left) discussed the redevelopment with a resident. ​ARK Ellison Horus, The Burg Bid, Foundation Vision Partners, and the Pinellas County Housing Authority each set up booths and handed out informational materials. The former two development teams offered custom hats and T-shirts. ​Each then had 20 minutes to present competitive pitches. The crowd was surprisingly raucous, as applause was encouraged. ​The city selected questions to read from over 100 submissions, and developers often struggled to answer within the allotted two minutes. Workforce development, a key unfilled promise to former Gas Plant residents, was a hot topic. ​Anddrikk Frazier, speaking on behalf of Foundation Vision Partners (FVP), reiterated that if selected, the city would uniquely retain ownership of the site. “One of the most inclusive processes you can find, from a legislative standpoint,” would then guide business procurement, he said. ​“So, it absolutely has to include small, local, and minority-owned businesses from a design, development, and construction standpoint,” Frazier added. “There’s not going to be a long process related to what needs to go into the actual development agreement. What that means is that we can start people to work here sooner than any of our competitors.” ​Representatives from The Burg Bid said they would build micro-retail spaces throughout the reimagined site, similar to what the group created at the St. Pete Pier. Businesses owned by women and people of color have secured $3.3 billion through the joint venture’s previous projects. ​“We’re working with our local partners that are going to have mentorship programs – that have existing programs – to ensure the local community is involved in the construction process,” said Thompson Whitney Blake, founder of Blake Investment Partners. ​ARK Ellison Horus has embedded accountability into its workforce development proposal. The development team has set a 40% participation goal for underserved business owners. ​They will also dedicate 15% of retail space to small businesses, including food trucks wanting to open a brick-and-mortar location. The developers expect to create 14,296 “higher wage” technology and research and development jobs. ​Casey Ellison, CEO of Ellison Development, said a council of local community leaders will help ensure the team fulfills those promises. A public dashboard will allow residents to see the number of jobs created and how many people have permanent roles, “from the time we start until 20 years from now.” ​“We’re really committed to making sure it sticks through the whole project,” Ellison said of job creation. “Tech’s not for everybody and blue collar is not for everybody, but … if you want an opportunity, you’ll be able to take advantage of it all.” The city estimates that over 500 people, either in-person or virtually, participated in the event. Another question focused on the amount of office space in each proposal that could foster six-figure salaries. The Burg Bid’s plan includes 1.4 million square feet. ​The developer will build a percentage of that square footage during each construction phase to accommodate large companies seeking a local office. Blake said his group will create “access to capital in a way that Tampa Bay has not seen before.” ​“We already have the capital in hand,” he added. “We are ready to go; ready to bring those jobs here.” ​Conroy said FVP’s master planning and infrastructure-first approach would incorporate “all the great ideas you’re hearing from the other competitors tonight.” He also believes that splitting the site into small parcels would “allow for more participation from our homegrown base.” ​Questions regarding workforce and economic development did not directly apply to the housing authority, which partnered with Ascension Real Estate Partners and STORYN Studio for Architecture on its proposal. The group wants to create a seven-story affordable senior housing facility with 80 affordable units on a .68-acre city-owned parcel used for overflow parking during Tampa Bay Rays games. ​Before the presentations, Ascension founder John Barkett said the project is “extremely needed now; it’s something that’s actionable now.” He noted that it will take a year before the city signs any development agreements, and seniors are currently choosing between paying their rent and purchasing medicine. ​“Down the road, we can fully integrate into whatever master plan is chosen,” Barkett said. “But we’ll be at a ribbon cutting before these other things are breaking ground. That’s the reality.” ​Barkett said monthly rents would start at $530, and affordable senior housing was a key priority for the Community Benefits Advisory Council during previous redevelopment negotiations with the Rays. Former owner Stuart Sternberg walked away from the deal in March 2025, leading the city to restart the process. ​Welch addressed previous attempts to redevelop the Gas Plant in his opening remarks. “It’s time to move forward to fulfill the decades-long promise of equitable and beneficial development of this site,” he said. ​“The community has told us, time and time again, what progress should look like on this site: Jobs, housing, inclusive economic opportunity, and honoring the promises that were made to the Gas Plant community,” Welch continued. “It’s time to finally act on those priorities through intentional and equitable action.” To view the presentations, visit the website here. To submit feedback, visit the website here. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

A recent survey of Black voters in Florida’s Tampa Bay region shows significant differences in the opinions of men versus women when it comes to this year’s presidential election. A closer examination of age groups reveals stark differences in the predictions and candidate preferences of younger Black men, compared to their elders. The six-question survey was circulated among attendees at a panel discussion titled A Candid Conversation on Why Black Men Do & Don’t Vote, held on September 17 at the Woodson African American Museum of Florida and accessible via Zoom. Both the event and survey were by the Power of the Vote Collective (POTV Collective), “a non-partisan, non-endorsing get-out-the-vote campaign, collectively powered by community organizations toward the goal of maximizing Black voter participation in Pinellas County, Florida, for the 2024 general election.” Analysis of survey responses was done by Urban Market Analytics, a division of Power Broker Media Group. Below is a summary of findings, with notes on how results compare to two recent national polls – an August 2024 poll by Pew Research and a September 2024 poll of Black voters in battleground states by Howard University’s Initiative on Public Opinion. Men are less inclined to support Kamala Harris It was no surprise that the POTV survey revealed a Black gender gap in support for Kamala Harris for president, with women supporting Harris at a higher rate than men. Several national polls have spotlighted the trend. What stood out, however, was the size of the gap. Pew’s recent survey showed a 7-point Black gender gap (80% of men and 87% of women favored Harris), while Howard’s poll found a 2-point gap (81% of men and 83% of women favored Harris). The recent POTV survey shows a much wider gulf between the two groups, with an incredible 96% of Black women supporting Harris, compared with 79% of Black men (a 17-point gap). The unusually high rate of support from Black women likely reflects audience make-up on September 17. Harris’ sorority sisters and sister Greeks (i.e., members of the other Divine 9 sororities) were about one-third of the female attendees polled, which would tend to skew results in Harris’ favor as the Divine 9 appears to be backing Harris at a higher rate than African American as a whole. Nevertheless, recent events and data suggest that the local Black gender gap in Harris support may be about as large as national polls find. A survey of Black super voters in Florida in late June found that 87% of Black men and 93% of Black women favored Harris, a 6-point gap. When the September 17 all Black male panel was asked whether racism or sexism will play a role in Black men’s vote this year, several men acknowledged the influence of sexism as a factor in Black (and white) men’s reactions to Harris. See the segment here. On September 20, when three of the same panelists appeared on WMNF’s The Skinny, a caller named Bobby from Bradenton, Florida, shared his thoughts on why he and other young Black men are supporting Donald Trump: “They’ve seen the results of his policies from 2016 to 2020 and they’ve seen the policies of the Joe Biden, Kamala Harris administration for the last four years and Black men do not like what they see.” (To listen in at the link above, the show segment starts at minute marker 27:30, and Bobby’s comments start at 51:22) Bobby also raised the issue of Harris’ prosecution of Black men – a topic that went viral following comedian DL Hughley’s televised apology to Harris at the Democratic National Convention for his own misperception about Harris’ prosecutorial record. Harris has far less support among younger Black men The POTV poll, like the Howard poll, found that older Black men support Kamala Harris at nearly the same rate as Black women as a whole. However, support for Harris falls off a cliff among younger Black men. The Howard poll had support for Harris at 88% among Black men 50 and older versus 72% for those under 50 (a 16-point gap). Though the Pew poll did not report results by gender, it surfaced a decided age gap: 92% of Black voters 50 or older favored Harris, compared to 75% of those under 50 (a 17-point gap). The recent POTV survey showed support for Harris rising with age. Harris had the support of 93% of Black men 65 and older; 79% of men 45 to 64; and 64% of men younger than 45. Little joy for Trump; third-party and write-ins more popular Despite the relatively light support for Harris among younger Black men, POTV survey results did not give the Trump camp cause for celebration. The survey showed only 5% of Black men inclined to support the former president, while 12% are supporting candidates other than Harris and Trump, and 5% chose not to answer the question, which may include some undecideds. This deviates from national polls, which consistently show sizable shares of Black men supporting Trump (17% in the Pew survey and 12% in the Howard poll). Does this mean that Trump’s support among younger Black men is weaker in this part of the country? Not necessarily. POTV survey responses may have been influenced by the palpable support for Harris at the September 17 event, possibly causing Trump supporters to hesitate about going on record in support of Trump (though the survey was anonymous) or influencing Trump leaners to change their minds. Another factor was the age composition of the September 17 audience, which skewed older. What little support Trump had in the POTV survey was in the 25-34 year old age group. Mixed predictions on Black male turnout; younger men more pessimistic The POTV survey asked event attendees to predict whether this year’s Black male turnout will be higher, lower or the same as in the 2020 election, based on what they are hearing and reading about Black men’s interest in the election. Similar ratios of Black men and women predicted higher Black male turnout in this year’s election (48% and 46% respectively). However, a significant portion of Black men predict that their peers’ turnout rate will be the same or lower than in 2020 (43%). A closer look at men’s responses reveals that younger men are decidedly more pessimistic about Black men’s interest in the election. Over one-third (36%) of men under age 45 forecast that the group’s turnout will be lower this year than in 2020, which was more than 5 times the share of men 65+ who predict the group’s turnout will fall. Optimism appears to increase by age. Among the oldest group below – Black men aged 65+ – nearly two-thirds (64%) say the group’s turnout will be higher this year which was 1.8 times the share of Black men under 45 who felt the same (36%). About the Power of the Vote Survey The Power of the Vote survey was a non-scientific poll open to the 130 individuals who attended a September 17, 2024 hybrid panel discussion titled A Candid Conversation on Why Black Men Do & Don’t Vote. Survey respondents were not screened or selected; nor was their voting history confirmed. Given the method by which invitations were extended (i.e., to the member databases of event host organizations), a lion’s share of survey respondents were likely voters. To watch the entire conversation, go to Power Broker media Group on YouTube. A majority of attendees live and/or work in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, the two largest of the eight counties that comprise Florida’s Tampa Bay region. Surveys were completed by 78 respondents. The Comparison Polls Pew Research Center, September 2024, “In Tied Presidential Race, Harris and Trump Have Contrasting Strengths, Weaknesses” (Based on registered voters, polled August 26-September 2, 2024) In Tied Presidential Race, Harris and Trump Have Contrasting Strengths, Weaknesses | Pew Research Center Howard Initiative on Public Opinion, September 2024, “Black American Battleground Voters Poll” (Based on likely voters, polled September 4-11, 2024) Black swing-state voters overwhelmingly back Harris — with key divides on age and gender, Howard poll shows (nbcnews.com) Power Broker Media Group/Urban Market Analytics, July 24, 2024, “New Poll: Black Floridians on Kamala Harrris and Whether the Nation is Ready to Elect a Black Woman as President” New Poll: Black Floridians on Kamala Harris and Whether Nation is Ready to Elect a Black Woman as President – Power Broker Magazine About Respondents to the Power of the Vote Survey Click here for demographic tables on survey respondents.

ByIsis Climes April 29, 2026 Hicks (left) poses with a friend in front of one of the ten-piece circular works at her titled exhibit, “When the Lights Came On: Shared Memories and the Things We Keep.” The piece is titled “Corner Store List: Dill Pickle, Snuff, Pickled Pig’s Feet and Grandma Margaret’s House.” Image Courtesy of Latonya Hicks’ Instagram. St. Petersburg is home to the artist and educator Latonya S. Hicks, a savant in both fields of art and education. Through her leadership roles, Hicks hopes to create meaningful connections and opportunities for educators in her field, while simultaneously strengthening the art community through her executive positions. Past President of the Florida Art Education Association (FAEA) and current Secondary Director-Elect for the National Art Education Association (NAEA); High School Chair for the AP Art and Design Development Committee & Exam Leader for the AP Art and Design exam reading for The College Board; and the Secondary Visual Art Coordinator for Pinellas County Schools — Hicks is a multipotentialite whose titles intersect with her professional passion and creative pursuits. Having seen firsthand how transformative it is when teachers feel valued and supported, Hicks’ main goal is to create access, connection, and opportunity on all levels for her fellow educators. She actively works towards building systems that allow teachers to grow professionally, share their expertise, and have a communal space. In her new role as NAEA’s secondary director-elect, Hicks intends to use this position to create opportunities for educators in the art community. Among both her students and fellow educators, Hicks best described herself as a “Swiss Army knife.” “I am here to help them be their best selves, which might mean: curriculum support, organizing summer camps, field trips, coaching art teachers on classroom management, lesson plans, organization, best practices, professional development, etc.,” said Hicks. Hicks is showing off her new art apron at Pinellas County Schools; Image Courtesy of Latonya Hicks’ Instagram. Born in Georgia and raised in Florida, Hicks has always been in tune with her artistic self and stated that through art she was able to “make sense of the world.” During her formative years, art came to her as instinctual, but as she grew, it became more intentional and reflective. Though many role models played a significant part in Hicks’ artistic journey, she gives thanks to her Aunty Shug not only for fostering her creativity but also for creating a safe space that allowed Hicks to be her full self. “Over time, I’ve moved from making for expression alone to making with purpose — honoring where I come from, what I’ve lost, and what I want to preserve. My evolution has been about slowing down, trusting my voice, and understanding that my story has value,” described Hicks. Latonya Hicks; Image Courtesy of Latonya Hicks’ Instagram. Her inspiration stems from memory, home, and the “visual language” of her upbringing (e.g., patterns, color, objects, and the feeling of sanctuary). Hicks integrates her inspiration with education by creating space for students to take ownership of their ideas and learn about the art-making process. Instead of teaching students to follow her directions, she instructs them in proper techniques that help them learn about the art medium. “I encourage students to see their own lives as worthy of exploration. When they realize their experiences, their families, their cultures are valid sources of inspiration, their work becomes more authentic and meaningful,” said Hicks. Art is a process — the journey of an art piece is equally important to the finished product. Hicks doesn’t approach her artwork with a fixed outcome in mind, but allows the objects she uses in her collaborative pieces to speak to her and unfold into a new creation. Through her layered pieces, Hicks’ ultimate goal is to connect. As an art voyeur, Hick explained that watching individuals engage with her work is “one of the most meaningful parts of the process.” “There’s a quiet vulnerability in it — hearing how someone interprets something so personal. I feel a sense of gratitude and curiosity. Sometimes what they see aligns with my intention, sometimes it doesn’t — and that’s the beauty of it,” explained Hicks. Hicks presents three pieces from her art exhibit, “When the Lights Came On: Shared Memories and the Things We Keep.” Image Courtesy of Latonya Hicks’ Instagram. Past exhibits featuring Hicks’ works include the Tampa Museum of Art, Morean Art Center, Dunedin Fine Art Center, Alliance for the Arts, CF Webber Gallery, and Lighthouse Art Center Gallery. Her most recent exhibit was earlier in the month at the Carrollwood Cultural Center during the Black Art Matters Tampa Bay Collective show (view the entire show online here). When examining her work, “The Dust That Hides the Glow of a Rose,” one sees how she encapsulates the metaphorical dust that settles and accumulates over time on an individual. The title speaks to the invisible weight a person carries, “expectations, survival, inherited histories, the weight of what we’ve moved through.” Yet, through it all, the rose remains vulnerable and present, holding beauty even when layered and concealed from outside or internal forces. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Photo by JerJuan Green: Participants of St. Pete Strong Conference. Academic advisors act as human roadmaps for college students struggling to decide which courses and electives are right for their majors. JerJuan Green is no stranger to helping students, both in the classroom and in the community. As an academic advisor at St. Petersburg Collegiate STEM High School, Green diligently works to help students understand the importance of STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education and how to apply what they learn to everyday scenarios. Through their understanding, he believes students will have a better grasp of real-world scenarios that will help them thrive outside of school. “I hear students say all the time, ‘I’m not going to use that math,’” he acknowledged. For Green, “making it more relatable to them and seeing that math is something that you’re going to use on an everyday basis,” is vital. Green reminds students that not understanding math can hurt them as they navigate their finances, whether from the simple task of adding the total cost of groceries to understanding numbers in a legally binding contract. “If you don’t use math, you’re going to end up paying somebody to use that math,” warns Green. Green insists that STEAM is the future and sees AI (Artificial Intelligence) playing a crucial role in our society. He believes that AI is a tool that can benefit students if they learn to take control of, rather than be controlled by, its seemingly unlimited capabilities. “I look at AI the same way I would look at a hammer; it’s a tool. The hammer itself is not going to do the job, but it is going to assist you in getting the job done,” said Green. He also wants students to understand the shortcomings of AI, and believes educating them for the future of AI means helping them “learn how to be the person that repairs them, or the person that programs them,” said Green. Preparing them for the future includes ensuring that they know how “to pivot – and be able to make yourself invaluable to that workforce.” No stranger to mentorship and youth guidance, beyond his educational career, Green has committed to serving his local community through volunteering. Green served 13 years as the director of Virginia M. Leonard’s Community Education Center (VMLCEC). In his role at the non-profit community hub, Green supported the local community through the Educational Support Developmental Services (ESDS). Green also served on the board of the Barbershop Book Club, started by business owner Antonio Brown (now the Competitive Readers Coalition), and has helped Deonte Thompson’s Dreamfaith Foundation organize the annual St. Pete Strong Conference, a college prep experience for middle and high school students, intended to expose them to the college experience. Green is still active in helping put together a team for this summer’s St. Pete Brain Bowl, an annual event that trains and prepares students to test their knowledge and win prizes such as college scholarships. A fierce advocate of creating pathways for students to succeed in an ever-demanding technological future, Green remains excited for what this year brings as he continues to explore new ways to help students flourish and evolve in the STEAM field. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokermagazine.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube. More Photos Photo by JerJuan Green: Participants of St. Pete Strong Conference. To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokermagazine.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube. Photo by JerJuan Green: Green (center, second row) and team, winners of the annual Brain Bowl event.

The Power of the Vote Collective sponsored “A Candid Conversation on Why Black Men Do & Don’t Vote,” discussion at the Woodson African American Museum of Florida on Tuesday, September 17. A full house of about 70 community members attended in person at the Woodson African American Museum; and virtually, and about 60 tuned in via Zoom to hear the panel of activists, educators, officials, and media entrepreneurs converse. Rev. Kenny Irby of Historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, who serves as faith and community justice liaison for the City of St. Petersburg, moderated the discussion. Panelists included John Bailey, founder of Life from Inside Out; State Senator Darryl Rouson; City Councilmember John Muhammad; owner of Get Zot Media Anthony Williams; Dr. Byron Green-Calisch, founder of Green Phoenix Solutions; Marcus Brooks, executive director of the Center for Health Equity; and Jamison Carnegie, outreach coordinator for U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor. Irby began by recalling the meaning of the vote for all Americans, emphasizing the fundamental importance of voting as civic participation vital to our country’s identity. SPPD’s former director of community intervention and juvenile outreach also said he considered himself a patriot who was proud to be an American and began by asking participants to share a fact about their own relationship to voting. Among the responses, both Williams and Green-Calisch gave credit to ancestors, with Williams calling out the spirit of long-time St. Pete community activist Theresa “Mama Tee” Lassiter and Green-Calisch crediting his activism to the legacy of James Baldwin. Brooks said he felt responsible to make sure the next generation would have what they needed to be successful, as he was “a product of a generation that did a whole lot for me to be sitting on the stage today.” With upbringings ranging from St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Bradenton, Florida, to New Orleans, Greensville, NC, and Mobile, Alabama, the panelists’ voting status ran the gamut — from never having voted (Bailey) to Wiliams being a first-time voter in 2016 after completing the steps necessary to regain his right to vote. Irby’s question on recent articles discussing Black male “invisibility” and the lack of attention to Black male voters by political candidates got an immediate response from Bailey – who said disenfranchisement is one way former-felons have long been ignored. At 77, Bailey is founder of a nonprofit dedicated to helping returning citizens with housing, employment, and health services; he is also currently working with the St. Petersburg League of Women Voters to help returning citizens restore their voting rights. He shared that getting caught up in the system as a youth kept him from voting, and that today, on probation, he is still unable to vote. “I feel pretty much disenfranchised; that the system has always worked against us,” he noted, adding gerrymandering and voter suppression among ongoing ways disenfranchisement occurs for many. Anthony Williams responded from his role as a media expert. “Every week I do a lot of research to get prepared for my show,” shared the host of 99.1 FM Jamz “The Voice of the People” radio program. “I don’t think Democrats or Republicans have any language that speaks directly to Black men, period. You’ll see campaigns and they’ll look right past us and look to our women.” Williams added that a large number of returning citizens may be uncertain about their voting status; he noted that men who are confronted with their record on numerous job applications are already turned off and aren’t “even trying to vote – so that’s another issue that we have to address.” Senator Rouson noted that Black people, not just Black men, have a historic mistrust of voting; Carnegie agreed, also pointing to the unbalanced and negative messaging regarding Harris that was impacting voter trust, and the need for voter education that was unbiased and truthful. During the evening, both Green-Calisch and Brooks spoke to the need to acknowledge that Black men have individual identities which need to be considered when speaking to the Black male voter bloc. Green-Calisch pointed to the importance of the church as a place to connect to voters, while Brooks mentioned the vital conversations that have historically happened within community barbershops. Green-Calisch said the diverse perspectives on the panel showed, “Black men are not a monolith. All of us have our own intersections, and we exist in our everyday lives in those intersections.” Councilman Muhammad also addressed the tendency to be suspicious of leaders who might be considered “disconnected from the rest of the community because you’re not embracing the struggle.” Referring to the “you’re not like us” or “you’re not a Black man” perspective that can drive a wedge within the community, Muhammad decried the attitude that says, “if I have a nice car, or if I live in a better neighborhood, in some way, it feels like I’m not being sincere in my service to our community.” Senator Rouson echoed these thoughts with the comment that “the Black community is not a monolith, but a mosaic of speech, of feeling, of behavior.” Irby also questioned the panel on whether race or gender would influence the Black male vote, and whether VP Harris would have to battle sexism among men and “Black men in particular.” Carnegie acknowledged that sexism would undoubtedly play a role in Black males questioning Harris’ ability, and his frustration with that sexism was evident. As the youngest member of the panel, the 26-year-old former director of Mt. Zion Human Services and current U.S. Congressional staffer was clearly aggravated at the ongoing challenges to Harris’s reputation, record, and ability. He scoffed at the question, “’She sits across from leaders — is she going to be strong enough?’ She’s done it already. Like this story is old, it’s tired.” The excitement accompanying the conversation was proof that the community needs more opportunities to uncover the fresh, bold, and brutally honest perspectives within Tampa Bay’s Black male demographic. Brooks affirmed this, saying panels offering such a wide diversity of socialization and backgrounds as those sitting on the stage that day were rare. “These experiences are too few far and in-between…these engagements are necessary. There is a requirement that we have, to come together collectively.” A survey of attendees revealed stark differences in opinion on the upcoming election. See the results here. To watch the entire conversation, go to Power Broker media Group on YouTube.

Cobb, far right, FLOWERS Youth participants, and Daniel Arango, USF Civil Engineering student, far left. Image courtesy of Dominique Cobb. When clean water becomes harder to protect, communities cannot afford to wait until a crisis reaches their front door. Families need to know where their water comes from, how to care for it, how to test it, and how to teach the next generation to see water as a source of life, health, and responsibility. That urgency is guiding the first Water Consciousness Community Gathering, taking place Saturday, May 2, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at WADA ArtsXchange, located at 515 22nd Street S. in St. Petersburg. The Water Consciousness Community Gathering will feature a conversation with Dominique Cobb, project manager for FLOWERS – Future Leaders of Water, Engineering, Research, and Science – a program through the Tampa Heights Junior Civic Association (THJCA) The gathering is part of the 4th Tampa Bay Chalk Festival, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on 22nd Street between 7th Avenue S. and 9th Avenue S. This year’s festival theme is “Our Watery Futures,” bringing sidewalk art, community learning, and environmental awareness into one public space. The Water Consciousness Community Gathering will feature a conversation with Dominique Cobb, project manager for FLOWERS – Future Leaders of Water, Engineering, Research, and Science – a program through the Tampa Heights Junior Civic Association (THJCA). In East Tampa, Cobb directs the program’s youth-centered work around water, STEM, and environmental stewardship. Through FLOWERS, Cobb introduces students to water science, engineering, research, public health, and environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and community partnerships. The program began with a focus on East Tampa and has already reached students from more than 17 schools across three counties. Image courtesy of Dominique Cobb. The event will also feature Leah Biery, director of education for Tampa Bay Watch, and Captain Miranda Douglas. Community members can expect a tea ceremony hosted by Dionne Seevers, a community art mural, and images from Dr. Masaru Emoto’s water experiments. For Cobb, the conversation is directly tied to the work she has been building with youth and families in East Tampa. FLOWERS introduces students to water science, engineering, research, public health, and environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and community partnerships. The program began with a focus on East Tampa and has already reached students from more than 17 schools across three counties. In her role, Cobb develops programming that helps students understand water, the environment, and the power they have to advocate for their communities. “What I do in that role is create different programs where we are focused on water, environment, and being environmental stewards,” Cobb said. “I connect with not only the community, but I look at the temperature of what’s going on politically and make sure our children are involved.” Cobb’s work with FLOWERS grew out of what she learned in the 2025 Pinellas County Water Steward Program, which helped her better understand fresh water sources, water systems, conservation, and the organizations connected to water access. “The things that I learned there, I’m like, how could I take this to not only my community, but be that liaison with my community and implement some of that knowledge and some of those resources,” Cobb said. That idea helped shape FLOWERS; Cobb wanted to take water education that often lives in formal programs, government meetings, or professional circles and place it directly in the hands of students and families. The program uses hands-on lessons to help young people understand the role water plays in daily life and future careers. Students learn through water testing, environmental activities, field experiences, and real-world problem solving. Cobb said the goal is to make science feel close, practical, and possible. The work is already growing. Cobb said FLOWERS recently completed its first cohort after sessions that moved from a public library to a middle school, a community pond, and the Hillsborough County Water Treatment Center. Students continued showing up, and families have asked when the next session will begin. Cobb wanted to take water education that often lives in formal programs, government meetings, or professional circles and place it directly in the hands of students and families. Image courtesy of Dominique Cobb. That response speaks to a larger need. “Water is life. Water is essential,” Cobb said. “And if we don’t know how essential water is, we could lose it.” At Saturday’s gathering, Cobb plans to speak about the importance of water in everyday life, including drinking, cooking, cleaning, and caring for the body. She also wants people to understand water scarcity, conservation, and how families can identify clean water sources during emergencies. “I wanted to bring community and culture together and talk to the community about how important water is,” Cobb said. “Water is necessary in everything, whether we drink, cook, or use it to cleanse our body.” Cobb said many students and parents she has worked with did not know how limited clean drinking water can be or what steps they could take if they needed to find or test safe water. That is why she believes education has to reach people in familiar places and at times when families can actually attend. Water education is also becoming a pathway into future careers. Through FLOWERS, students are being introduced to science, marine work, environmental research, public health, and infrastructure in ways that connect directly to their own neighborhoods. “I want our community to be able to be in nature and know that they belong there, especially our children,” Cobb said. “If I have the knowledge and the access, I’m going to make sure we are in the space and in the place, and we’re going to learn, and we’re going to take it back, because this is our birthright.” At the Water Consciousness Community Gathering, residents, families, and youth will have a chance to connect those lessons to the future of Tampa Bay’s waterways and the communities that depend on them. “I hope that through my work in the community, or what we will be doing this weekend as well, we can put the emphasis on how important water is at the level of conserving and also researching it,” Cobb said. For those who want to support this work beyond Saturday, FLOWERS is continuing to build summer programming and partnerships for students. Community members, organizations, and supporters interested in helping expand access to water education, youth learning, and environmental stewardship can connect with East Tampa FLOWERS through the Tampa Heights Junior Civic Association, https://www.thjca.org/contact; by phone at 813-468-3608, or email admin@thjca.org. Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube

Three weeks ago, I wrongly reported in a memo to local community leaders that Black voter registration in Pinellas stood at an all-time low, and that changes in Florida laws had led to a sharp drop in the number of African Americans who are registered. I’ve since learned that this is false. Though my numbers came directly from the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections reports (the same reports I’ve relied on for many years), I’ve since learned that the Supervisor recently changed its reporting protocols in response to new Florida laws. The Supervisor no longer reports ALL eligible voters (i.e., those registered and able to cast a vote on election date). This first came to my attention when I received an email alert from Phillip Jerez, Executive Director of the Florida Democratic Party calling out what he characterized as deceptive and “misleading” reports on voter registrations. Jerez wrote, “Over the past few years, Republicans have passed new elections laws, two specifically that changed ‘list maintenance’ processes. As a result, almost one million Democratic voters have been labeled “inactive voters” and wiped from the total reported to the public…” This led me in search of a comprehensive count and list of all eligible voters in Pinellas, which I finally secured last Thursday (after multiple requests to the Supervisor’s office). So here are the numbers for African Americans. Pinellas County has 16,895 Black voters now classified as Inactive, and who are not included in public reports by the Supervisor, but who are still eligible to vote in the 2024 election! This number, combined with the 46,827 who show up on the Supervisor’s public reports equates to about 63,722 Black voters who can cast a ballot on election day. So instead of African Americans being at an all-time low registration rate and count, we may be at an all-time high number of eligible Black voters in Pinellas. Here is a corrected version of the data graphic I released last month. I’m writing a separate memo to community leaders and local officials on why the new Florida laws are damaging to voter education and get-out-the-vote efforts. For now, though, here are a few things you should know about this so-called “Inactive” voter group. Why some people are coded Inactive A person is coded Inactive because either: A. They did not respond within 30 days to a mailer from the Supervisor of Elections, requesting that they verify or update their address; OR B. A mailer from the Supervisor to confirm their address was returned as undeliverable. Please note – The reason they were sent the address confirmation mailer in the first place is an issue we should return to post-election. Nevertheless, so-called Inactive voters CAN vote Even if a registered voter is coded Inactive, they can still cast a ballot in the upcoming 2024 general election. The Supervisor’s website notes, “Inactive voters remain in the voter file for two general elections [after being placed on the Inactive list] and are still eligible to vote.” How to find out if someone is Inactive It takes 30 seconds to check whether you or a family member is labeled as Inactive by the Supervisor. Go to Check My Voter Registration Status (votepinellas.gov) and plug in your name and date of birth and hit submit. If you are coded as Active, you’ll see a message like this: If you are coded as Inactive, you’ll see a message like this: What to do if you are Inactive Though you can still vote, it’s best to take a minute to update your address with the Supervisor’s office. The easiest and quickest way to do that is to email Election@VotePinellas.gov OR simply call 727-464- VOTE (8683) with the following information: Your name Date of birth Driver’s License number/FL ID number Last 4 digits of Social security number Your correct and current address (specifying whether this is your residential address or mailing address or both) That’s it. Please note, even if you don’t update your address, you can still vote in the upcoming election! Share Your News with Us To share news with the Power Broker, connect with reachout@powerbrokermagazine.com. To sign up for our twice-weekly e-newsletter, visit www.powerbrokernews.com; and to join our online conversation, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Power Broker Media Group – YouTube