Leaders of two downtown partnerships are learning from each to create a ‘downtown for all’ 

Collaboration is brought up a lot when speaking to various economic development entities, either the lack thereof or the presence of it, and its benefits.  So what happens when two leaders of economic development entities, across a bay from one another, become friends and work together to benefit their respective communities? A lot of progress. … Read more

For the love of the team: Two Tampa Bay business leaders share their love for the Buccaneers in celebration of Creamsicle Day (PHOTOS)

Tampa is one of the proudest sports communities, which should come as no surprise to Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans. Just two years ago, on February 7, 2021, the Bucs made history and won Super Bowl LV, at home, in the beloved Raymond James Stadium. It was a day, and a season, that Bucs fans will … Read more

Sun Coast Transportation Planning Alliance launches survey about regional MPO

The Tampa Bay Partnership is working to raise community awareness of a community survey regarding the potential for a regional Metropolitan Planning Organization. The Sun Coast Transportation Planning Alliance has created a five-minute community survey to obtain feedback from residents from Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. Maximum engagement in the Community Survey is critical to … Read more

Cyberattacks are Increasing: Don’t Ignore These Risks

By Kadian Douglas, prinicipal with CLA Tampa As cyberattacks become more frequent, and sophisticated, cybersecurity awareness is critical for organizations to help protect their assets and reputation. Be alert for cybercriminals looking to commit criminal activities by exploiting companies. Watch for social engineering and phishing attacks An organization’s most valuable assets are at risk: data … Read more

Michael Saunders & Co. listing voted overall winner in HGTV contest (PHOTOS)

A listing represented by Denise Mei of Michael Saunders & Company was selected as the overall winner in the HGTV Ultimate House Hunt 2023, a monthlong online promotion held annually, on HGTV.com showcasing homes across the country. More than 1.2 million votes were cast to determine the winners among 84 finalists, in eight categories, according … Read more

Next Net Media appoints new president for its multiple holdings, including The HOTH

Next Net Media, a global holding company with a variety of internet businesses, including The HOTH, FreeUp and Copymatic, has named Marc Pickren as president. In this role, Pickren will enhance the company’s growth and monetize its position as a leader in search engine optimization, digital marketing technology and generative artificial intelligence for businesses small … Read more

Vistra Communications names new chief financial officer

Vistra Communications has named Chris Zarreke as its new chief financial officer. A Florida Certified Public Accountant, and a double Florida State University alumnus, Zarreke steps into the position previously held by Zoe Gustafson, who recently retired after seven years with Vistra. He began his career as an auditor and consultant with PwC, also known … Read more

St. Petersburg charity, Lillian Bay Foundation, supports Cystic Hygroma treatment for children by leveraging cryptocurrency

A common belief of a persevering mindset is, “Where there is a will, there’s a way.” Brad Beatty, inspired by his daughter’s dire struggle with Cystic Hygroma, founded The Lillian Bay Foundation, in 2022. The groundbreaking nonprofit organization leverages the power of cryptocurrency and digital assets through Lillian Finance to expedite funding in support of … Read more

Letter from the Publisher: The Touchdown Dance

I’ve spent years managing large teams, serving on boards, chairing committees and being a “leader” in professional circles.  For the most recent four and a half years, I only had a partner and an editor – a team of three. And, while we were often overwhelmed with the number of hours we worked or big … Read more

One Liners Sarasota and Manatee: Children First, Coca-Cola and more

► Philip Tavill, chief executive officer of Children First, was honored by the National Head Start Association with the Sargent Shriver Excellence in Community Service Award. (Pictured above) ► Wisconsin-based Menard, which owns more than 300 Menards stores across 15 states, closed on the agricultural land in Myakka City, paying $10.3 million.  ► The Sarasota … Read more