Beyond the Big Box: The Hidden Benefits of Local Vendors

By James Neely, Senior Vice President of Sales, KUDUCOM Following the pandemic, people everywhere have been flooded with the message to #supportlocal, an endeavor that kept many vital local businesses alive in such a transient economy. Despite these efforts to keep the cities’ mainstay businesses afloat, Tampa Bay is no stranger to turnover. The city … Read more

BIG FUTURES: Equipping Tampa Bay’s Future Workforce with Big Brothers Big Sisters

Across the United States, 69% of corporations and businesses are struggling to find top talent, according to a Manpower Survey. Additionally, according to the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 78% of hiring managers across the nation say the skills gap persists across industries. Mentoring can be an integral part of the solution in both better … Read more

More than just a purse: The investment side of luxury handbags

Contributed by Graham Wetzbarger  I recently found myself in Sarasota, on a quest to learn more about a young handbag brand called BSWANKY. I had met designer Gretchen Bauer a couple of months prior over a couple of Aperol spritz. She was carrying one of her kaleidoscopic handbag creations and espousing her excitement over how … Read more

Rental Real Estate Passive vs. Active Tax Rules

Owning rental real estate can be a great way to supplement the income you receive from your regular job. Investing in rental property can generate recurring cash flow, help build long-term wealth and even capture some unique tax benefits. But, to reap all these benefits, you need to understand the rules for this type of … Read more

Reaching the top: What I learned on my big climb (GUEST COLUMN)

By Jennifer Garbowicz, private client advisor and senior vice president, Bank of America Private Bank In July 2023, I realized a dream and conquered a challenge when I summited Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, the highest mountain in Africa. The total duration of the climb took about five and a half days up the mountain and … Read more

A Letter From Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay

From Chief Executive Officer Chris Letsos: Big Brothers Big Sisters is a special organization. Founded over 100 years ago, with nearly sixty years of dedicated service in Tampa Bay, our mission is to provide all young people with opportunity. Initially, we were created as an alternative to the juvenile justice system for troubled children; today, … Read more

The Community Bank Difference

By Owen LaFave, Pinellas County Market President, The Bank of Tampa All eyes are on the U.S. banking industry as three of the biggest bank failures in U.S. history have created a disruption in recent months. However, while these bank failures have raised concerns about the safety and soundness of the banking system, it’s important … 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

Redefining Communication: Embracing Omnichannel Experience in the Hybrid Work Era

By Ryan Yaldor, chief technology officer for KUDUCOM™ Communication has undergone a revolutionary shift driven by customer expectations for seamless and personalized interactions with businesses. The way we connect, collaborate and create has, fundamentally, transformed becoming more flexible, inclusive and mobile. The Rise of the Unified Platform The swift transition to remote working triggered a … Read more