Tampa Weekly: Youth programs, celebrations of diversity, and more...
View this email in your browser (https://mailchi.mp/tampagov/tampa-weekly-youth-programs-celebrations-of-diversity-and-more?e=da3806c992) http://www.tampa.gov The City of Tampa Parks & Recreation Department and the Pepperjack's Kids Running Program have teamed up again to give hundreds of young Tampa runners lessons in fitness, discipline, and nutrition. Approximately 250 kids have been training this year, preparing for the final goal: to run the last two miles of the Gasparilla half marathon on February 23. Tampa Parks & Recreation and Pepperjack's Kids Running Program (https://www.tampa.gov/news/2025-02/pepperjacks-running-program-parks-and-recreation-get-kids-ready-run-163761) have teamed up again to give hundreds of young Tampa runners lessons in fitness, discipline, and nutrition. Approximately 250 kids have been training this year, preparing for the final goal: to run the last two miles of the Gasparilla half marathon on February 23. GET INVOLVED Deadline Extended: Drop Savers Poster Contest
Young artists now have more time to participate in our 2025 Drop Savers Poster Contest - the new deadline is February 22. All K-12 students are invited to show off their artistic talent by creating a poster about the importance of water conservation through an image or slogan. School winners will go on to the County-level competition where they will have the chance to win exciting prizes. Teachers can learn more information at tampa.gov/DropSavers (https://www.tampa.gov/DropSavers) .
20th Annual 3R’s Art & Poetry Contest - Voting is Open!
The 20th Annual 3R’s Art & Poetry Contest submissions are in! Each masterpiece inspires environmental stewardship, while conveying a recycling and waste reduction message. Winners have their work featured on a Solid Waste truck for one year. Vote today at tampa.gov/3Rs. Voting period ends March 2. Capital One Cafe Coffee with a Cop
Meet with Tampa Police staff on February 18 at the Capital One Café (700 S Village Circle) from 12 pm – 2 pm to discuss crime patterns, safety tips, and quality of life concerns over a cup of coffee at Capital One Cafe.
Black Love Series
The 2025 Black Love Classic Movie Series comes to a close this weekend, ending the month with Hidden Figures on February 23 at 3 pm. The series has highlighted a new genre: Blerds. Shorthand for “black nerds,” blerd culture celebrates those heroes – both “super” and everyday – who stir the imagination and spark creativity. This year’s Black Love classics series, presented by Tampa Electric (TECO) in collaboration with the City of Tampa Community Engagement & Partnerships Department, reflects Tampa Theatre’s commitment to representation and the magic of the movies with “Rise of the Blerds” every Sunday in February. Tickets may be purchased at the box office and online at tampatheatre.org (http://www.tampatheatre.org/) .
Mayor’s Neighborhood University Saturday Session
Thinking about hosting an outdoor event? Whether it’s a community gathering, festival, or fundraiser, this session covers everything you need to know—from securing permits and meeting city requirements to planning logistics and staying on budget. Get insider tips from our Special Events team, navigate common challenges, and set your event up for success! This indoor presentation (https://www.tampa.gov/events/mnu-saturday-session-parks-and-permits-101-hosting-outdoor-events/163496) takes place on February 22 from 9 am - 11 am at the City Center at Hanna Avenue (2555 East Hanna Avenue). The Mayor's Neighborhood University (MNU) Saturday Session is an initiative of the City's Community Engagement and Partnerships team to help inform and engage community members.
Virtual Homebuyer Education Workshop
Do you want to buy a home? Does your credit need attention? Join an upcoming Housing & Education Alliance First-Time Homebuyer Workshop (https://www.tampa.gov/events/virtual-homebuyer-education-workshop/163826) to learn everything you need to know about purchasing your dream home. The class will review the fundamentals of successful homeownership and credit.
Mark Your Calendar: Annual Tampa Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival
The Annual Tampa Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival (https://www.tampa.gov/AsianPacificFestival) returns on March 22! From 12 pm to 7 pm, celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park with art, food, music, dance, and more. The event is free and open to the public.
Job of the Week
The Wastewater Department is hiring an AWT Electrical Specialist (https://www.jobapscloud.com/Tampa/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1=241122&R2=312100&R3=001) to perform technical work in the design & analysis of electrical systems at the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant facilities and pump stations. LAST WEEK'S HEADLINES
Tampa Bay State of the Region report shows affordability and business trends Tampa Bay State of the Region report shows affordability and business trends (https://www.wusf.org/economy-business/2025-02-14/tampa-bay-state-of-region-report-shows-affordability-business-trends) WUSF The 2025 State of the Region report shows the Tampa Bay area remains a magnet for talent, families and businesses.
Tampa kids preparing to run in the Gasparilla Jr. Distance Classic (https://www.abcactionnews.com/community/gasparilla-distance-classic/tampa-kids-preparing-to-run-in-the-gasparilla-jr-distance-classic) ABC Action News Bell runs for fun, for exercise and for good health.
Experience beautiful year-round rides between Tampa and St. Pete on the Cross-Bay Ferry Experience beautiful year-round rides between Tampa and St. Pete on the Cross-Bay Ferry (https://thatssotampa.com/cross-bay-ferry-tampa-st-pete-cruise/) That’s So Tampa The ferry departs from the Port of St. Pete and the Tampa Convention Center. The new Howard Frankland is almost here. What does that mean for Tampa Bay? The new Howard Frankland is almost here. What does that mean for Tampa Bay? (https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/2025/02/15/howard-frankland-bridge-construction-congestion-light-rail-pedestrians-traffic-i275/) Tampa Bay Times Its total capacity will grow from eight to 12 lanes. TPD touts crime reductions in Friday's 2024 Annual Report release (https://www.fox13news.com/news/tpd-touts-crime-reductions-fridays-2024-annual-report-release) FOX13 Moving into 2025, TPD says it will prioritize illegal street racing and street takeovers.
Meet Jason Milton, Solid Waste Field Operations Supervisor in the Solid Waste Department. He has worked for the City of Tampa for 14 years and he enjoys that his position can take on a variety of duties.
What is your favorite place in Tampa? If I had to choose one favorite place, I'd say Riverwalk in the evening.
What is your favorite meal to cook? I have yet to choose a favorite meal to cook. What I love is the response I get after people have tasted my meals.
What is your dream vacation? My dream vacation is to tour Africa, but not just for a couple of weeks. I'd love to spend a couple of months in Africa.
What is your favorite restaurant in Tampa? Charley's!
SPECIAL FEATURE In 2024, over 38 million pounds of recycling was collected & processed - saving precious resources like water, energy, trees, fossil fuels, & minerals. Visit [tampa.gov/recycling]tampa.gov/recycling to review the recycling rules to make sure you’re recycling right! In 2024, over 38 million pounds of recycling was collected & processed - saving precious resources like water, energy, trees, fossil fuels, & minerals. Visit ** tampa.gov/recycling (https://www.tampa.gov/recycling) to review the recycling rules to make sure you’re recycling right!
** (https://youtu.be/GNFJUu0443s?feature=shared)
Chief Lee Bercaw Shares 2024 Annual Report
The Annual Report highlights the department’s efforts in crime reduction, community engagement, quality assurance, and wellness. ** Review the report at tampa.gov. (https://www.tampa.gov/document/2024-tampa-police-annual-report-163866)
** (https://youtu.be/1wPdISg2EHc)
Revitalizing West Tampa: How the Main Street Quick Build Project Will Unite Neighborhoods
The Main Street Quick Build Project is set to transform West Tampa by connecting neighborhoods and revitalizing the community. From repaving streets to enhanced pedestrian safety, this project aims to bring new life to the area, making it more accessible, vibrant, and welcoming for everyone. COMING UP THIS WEEK
Monday, February 17 at 9 a.m. PUBLIC DEFENDER JULIANNE HOLT RETIREMENT RECOGNITION
Monday, February 17 at 10:45 a.m. CITY OF TAMPA BLACK HISTORY ANNUAL CELEBRATION
Tuesday, February 18 at 9:30 a.m. PORT TAMPA BAY COMMISSIONERS MEETING
Wednesday, February 19 at 11:30 a.m. COLLEGE HUNKS HAULING JUNK & MOVING 20th ANNIVERSARY EVENT
Wednesday, February 19 at 3 p.m. PRESS CONFERENCE – YARD WASTE PROGRAM ANNIVERSARY
Wednesday, February 19 at 4:45 p.m. WESTSHORE ALLIANCE 42nd ANNUAL MEETING
Our mailing address is: City of Tampa 306 East Jackson Street Tampa, Florida 33602 USA Want to change how you receive these emails? You can ** update your preferences (https://tampagov.us12.list-manage.com/profile?u=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee&id=13014f9a30&e=da3806c992&c=ca02b61fab) or ** unsubscribe from this list (https://tampagov.us12.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee&id=13014f9a30&t=b&e=da3806c992&c=ca02b61fab) . Email Marketing Powered by Mailchimp https://login.mailchimp.com/signup/email-referral/?aid=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee
http://www.tampa.gov
The City of Tampa Parks & Recreation Department and the Pepperjack's Kids Running Program have teamed up again to give hundreds of young Tampa runners lessons in fitness, discipline, and nutrition. Approximately 250 kids have been training this year, preparing for the final goal: to run the last two miles of the Gasparilla half marathon on February 23.
Tampa Parks & Recreation and Pepperjack's Kids Running Program (https://www.tampa.gov/news/2025-02/pepperjacks-running-program-parks-and-recreation-get-kids-ready-run-163761) have teamed up again to give hundreds of young Tampa runners lessons in fitness, discipline, and nutrition. Approximately 250 kids have been training this year, preparing for the final goal: to run the last two miles of the Gasparilla half marathon on February 23.
GET INVOLVED
Deadline Extended: Drop Savers Poster Contest
Young artists now have more time to participate in our 2025 Drop Savers Poster Contest - the new deadline is February 22. All K-12 students are invited to show off their artistic talent by creating a poster about the importance of water conservation through an image or slogan. School winners will go on to the County-level competition where they will have the chance to win exciting prizes. Teachers can learn more information at tampa.gov/DropSavers (https://www.tampa.gov/DropSavers) .
20th Annual 3R’s Art & Poetry Contest - Voting is Open!
The 20th Annual 3R’s Art & Poetry Contest submissions are in! Each masterpiece inspires environmental stewardship, while conveying a recycling and waste reduction message. Winners have their work featured on a Solid Waste truck for one year. Vote today at tampa.gov/3Rs. Voting period ends March 2.
Capital One Cafe Coffee with a Cop
Meet with Tampa Police staff on February 18 at the Capital One Café (700 S Village Circle) from 12 pm – 2 pm to discuss crime patterns, safety tips, and quality of life concerns over a cup of coffee at Capital One Cafe.
Black Love Series
The 2025 Black Love Classic Movie Series comes to a close this weekend, ending the month with Hidden Figures on February 23 at 3 pm. The series has highlighted a new genre: Blerds. Shorthand for “black nerds,” blerd culture celebrates those heroes – both “super” and everyday – who stir the imagination and spark creativity. This year’s Black Love classics series, presented by Tampa Electric (TECO) in collaboration with the City of Tampa Community Engagement & Partnerships Department, reflects Tampa Theatre’s commitment to representation and the magic of the movies with “Rise of the Blerds” every Sunday in February. Tickets may be purchased at the box office and online at tampatheatre.org (http://www.tampatheatre.org/) .
Mayor’s Neighborhood University Saturday Session
Thinking about hosting an outdoor event? Whether it’s a community gathering, festival, or fundraiser, this session covers everything you need to know—from securing permits and meeting city requirements to planning logistics and staying on budget. Get insider tips from our Special Events team, navigate common challenges, and set your event up for success! This indoor presentation (https://www.tampa.gov/events/mnu-saturday-session-parks-and-permits-101-hosting-outdoor-events/163496) takes place on February 22 from 9 am - 11 am at the City Center at Hanna Avenue (2555 East Hanna Avenue). The Mayor's Neighborhood University (MNU) Saturday Session is an initiative of the City's Community Engagement and Partnerships team to help inform and engage community members.
Virtual Homebuyer Education Workshop
Do you want to buy a home? Does your credit need attention? Join an upcoming Housing & Education Alliance First-Time Homebuyer Workshop (https://www.tampa.gov/events/virtual-homebuyer-education-workshop/163826) to learn everything you need to know about purchasing your dream home. The class will review the fundamentals of successful homeownership and credit.
Mark Your Calendar: Annual Tampa Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival
The Annual Tampa Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival (https://www.tampa.gov/AsianPacificFestival) returns on March 22! From 12 pm to 7 pm, celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park with art, food, music, dance, and more. The event is free and open to the public.
Job of the Week
The Wastewater Department is hiring an AWT Electrical Specialist (https://www.jobapscloud.com/Tampa/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1=241122&R2=312100&R3=001) to perform technical work in the design & analysis of electrical systems at the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant facilities and pump stations.
LAST WEEK'S HEADLINES
Tampa Bay State of the Region report shows affordability and business trends
Tampa Bay State of the Region report shows affordability and business trends (https://www.wusf.org/economy-business/2025-02-14/tampa-bay-state-of-region-report-shows-affordability-business-trends)
WUSF
The 2025 State of the Region report shows the Tampa Bay area remains a magnet for talent, families and businesses.
Tampa kids preparing to run in the Gasparilla Jr. Distance Classic (https://www.abcactionnews.com/community/gasparilla-distance-classic/tampa-kids-preparing-to-run-in-the-gasparilla-jr-distance-classic)
ABC Action News
Bell runs for fun, for exercise and for good health.
Experience beautiful year-round rides between Tampa and St. Pete on the Cross-Bay Ferry
Experience beautiful year-round rides between Tampa and St. Pete on the Cross-Bay Ferry (https://thatssotampa.com/cross-bay-ferry-tampa-st-pete-cruise/)
That’s So Tampa
The ferry departs from the Port of St. Pete and the Tampa Convention Center.
The new Howard Frankland is almost here. What does that mean for Tampa Bay?
The new Howard Frankland is almost here. What does that mean for Tampa Bay? (https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/2025/02/15/howard-frankland-bridge-construction-congestion-light-rail-pedestrians-traffic-i275/)
Tampa Bay Times
Its total capacity will grow from eight to 12 lanes.
TPD touts crime reductions in Friday's 2024 Annual Report release (https://www.fox13news.com/news/tpd-touts-crime-reductions-fridays-2024-annual-report-release)
FOX13
Moving into 2025, TPD says it will prioritize illegal street racing and street takeovers.
============================================================
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Meet Jason Milton, Solid Waste Field Operations Supervisor in the Solid Waste Department. He has worked for the City of Tampa for 14 years and he enjoys that his position can take on a variety of duties.
What is your favorite place in Tampa? If I had to choose one favorite place, I'd say Riverwalk in the evening.
What is your favorite meal to cook? I have yet to choose a favorite meal to cook. What I love is the response I get after people have tasted my meals.
What is your dream vacation? My dream vacation is to tour Africa, but not just for a couple of weeks. I'd love to spend a couple of months in Africa.
What is your favorite restaurant in Tampa? Charley's!
SPECIAL FEATURE
In 2024, over 38 million pounds of recycling was collected & processed - saving precious resources like water, energy, trees, fossil fuels, & minerals. Visit [tampa.gov/recycling]tampa.gov/recycling to review the recycling rules to make sure you’re recycling right!
In 2024, over 38 million pounds of recycling was collected & processed - saving precious resources like water, energy, trees, fossil fuels, & minerals. Visit ** tampa.gov/recycling (https://www.tampa.gov/recycling)
to review the recycling rules to make sure you’re recycling right!
** (https://youtu.be/GNFJUu0443s?feature=shared)
Chief Lee Bercaw Shares 2024 Annual Report
The Annual Report highlights the department’s efforts in crime reduction, community engagement, quality assurance, and wellness. ** Review the report at tampa.gov. (https://www.tampa.gov/document/2024-tampa-police-annual-report-163866)
** (https://youtu.be/1wPdISg2EHc)
Revitalizing West Tampa: How the Main Street Quick Build Project Will Unite Neighborhoods
The Main Street Quick Build Project is set to transform West Tampa by connecting neighborhoods and revitalizing the community. From repaving streets to enhanced pedestrian safety, this project aims to bring new life to the area, making it more accessible, vibrant, and welcoming for everyone.
COMING UP THIS WEEK
Monday, February 17 at 9 a.m.
PUBLIC DEFENDER JULIANNE HOLT RETIREMENT RECOGNITION
Monday, February 17 at 10:45 a.m.
CITY OF TAMPA BLACK HISTORY ANNUAL CELEBRATION
Tuesday, February 18 at 9:30 a.m.
PORT TAMPA BAY COMMISSIONERS MEETING
Wednesday, February 19 at 11:30 a.m.
COLLEGE HUNKS HAULING JUNK & MOVING 20th ANNIVERSARY EVENT
Wednesday, February 19 at 3 p.m.
PRESS CONFERENCE – YARD WASTE PROGRAM ANNIVERSARY
Wednesday, February 19 at 4:45 p.m.
WESTSHORE ALLIANCE 42nd ANNUAL MEETING
Thursday, February 20 – Saturday, February 22
U.S. CONFERENCE OF MAYORS WINTER LEADERSHIP MEETING, PHOENIX, AZ
** SIGN UP FOR TAMPA WEEKLY (https://tampagov.us12.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee&id=13014f9a30)
** Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/janecastorfl)
** Twitter (https://twitter.com/janecastor)
** Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/janecastor)
Copyright © 2025 City of Tampa, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in at www.tampagov.net
Our mailing address is:
City of Tampa
306 East Jackson Street
Tampa, Florida 33602
USA
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can ** update your preferences (https://tampagov.us12.list-manage.com/profile?u=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee&id=13014f9a30&e=da3806c992&c=ca02b61fab)
or ** unsubscribe from this list (https://tampagov.us12.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee&id=13014f9a30&t=b&e=da3806c992&c=ca02b61fab)
.
Email Marketing Powered by Mailchimp
https://login.mailchimp.com/signup/email-referral/?aid=9bdfe0f7b0aceb3620b8eb6ee