Tampa Bay recently enjoyed an exquisite culinary experience at the ribbon cutting ceremony of Gaston’s Culinary Services, led by renowned chef Gaston D Meredith. Hosted by the Tampa Chamber, with its president Brian Butler delivering opening remarks and blessings on behalf of the entire Tampa Bay chamber, the event celebrated the culinary excellence of Chef Gaston in a charming and intimate setting. The invite-only event, held at 301 South 22nd Street, Tampa, FL, welcomed esteemed guests, including local food enthusiasts and industry professionals. Gaston’s Culinary Services delighted attendees with a carefully curated menu featuring delectable hors d’oeuvres complemented by a selection of fine drinks & wines. Each dish showcased Chef Gaston’s innovative flair and culinary expertise. Acknowledging the significance of the occasion, Brian Butler, president of the Tampa Chamber, delivered opening remarks, acknowledging Chef Gaston’s exceptional talent and culinary achievements. He reiterated the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering a thriving culinary scene in Tampa Bay. Brian Butler’s presence added an element of honor and prestige to the celebration. The ribbon cutting ceremony at Gaston’s Culinary Services served as a memorable milestone, marking the beginning of an exciting culinary journey for this innovative, local establishment. Chef Gaston’s culinary creations, coupled with the support of the Tampa Chamber, have laid the foundation for a thriving culinary scene in Tampa Bay. In summary, the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Gaston’s Culinary Services, supported by the Tampa Chamber was an exceptional celebration of culinary excellence. This event highlighted Chef Gaston’s expertise and set the stage for an exciting culinary journey through innovative flavors and delectable creations. Tampa Bay continues to flourish as a culinary destination, thanks to the talented chefs and the support of local organizations like the Tampa Chamber. Gaston’s Culinary Services is more than just a catering company; it represents Chef Gaston’s commitment to sharing his culinary expertise with the world. As the invitees eagerly anticipates the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the entire city can prepare to embark on a culinary journey like no other. Gaston’s Culinary Services promises to leave a lasting impression on taste buds and hearts of the special VIPS, and the entire city for years to come.  This event ensures an unforgettable evening of exceptional food, delightful company, and a celebration of the artistry that is Chef Gaston D. Meredith signature.  TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

The Tampa Business Club is thrilled to announce its newest speaker, Bridgette Bello, the CEO of Tampa Bay Business & Wealth magazine. With over 30 years of experience in the media industry, Bridgette Bello has shattered glass ceilings and is recognized as a prominent figure in leadership. Her expertise in creating powerhouse brands in today’s marketplace, particularly focusing on women in leadership, promises to provide valuable insights to attendees. Bridgette Bello’s remarkable journey in the media industry sets her apart as a trailblazer. For 11 years, she served as the president and publisher of the Tampa Bay Business Journal, becoming the first woman publisher in its 40-year history. Her extensive experience spans across various aspects of the media business, including writing for a daily newspaper, media buying for ad agencies, and successfully leading sales departments and award-winning news teams. Bridgette Bello’s impact is further emphasized through her role as CEO and Publisher of Tampa Bay Business & Wealth (TBBW) magazine. In its inaugural year, TBBW was honored with two Charlie Awards by the Florida Magazine Association. Notably, in 2022, the magazine added two more Charlie Awards to its impressive collection. The recognition from industry professionals highlights Bridgette’s ability to create and curate insightful content for the business community. Bridgette Bello’s dedication to serving her community extends beyond her professional achievements. She has made significant contributions as a Governor Appointed Vice Chair for St. Petersburg College’s board of trustees for eight years. Additionally, she has served as a Board of Directors emeritus for The Spring of Tampa Bay, chair of the American Diabetes Association Step Out Walk to stop diabetes, and a member of CEO’S Against Cancer, Florida Chapter. Bridgette’s involvement in nonprofit organizations is equally inspiring. She chaired the Alzheimer’s Association gala for 2020-2021, served on the board of directors for CEO Council, and acted as an advisory board member for Bigfoot Reduction – a private company. Bridgette has also been a member of the Project Opioid Tampa Bay Coalition and has played an active role in various nonprofit board committees, including chairing the Man and Woman of the Year and Light the Night recruitment committees. Bridgette Bello’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. She was honored as the St. Petersburg Chamber’s “Business Woman of the Year” in 2011 and received the Best Moms of the Bay award in 2012. Alongside her successful career, Bridgette cherishes her role as a mother to three accomplished children. Bridgette Bello’s journey as a media professional, her leadership roles, and her commitment to community service make her a remarkable individual. As she takes the stage at the Tampa Business Club’s panel on women in leadership, attendees can anticipate an insightful discussion on creating powerhouse brands in today’s marketplace. Bridgette’s wealth of experience and achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring leaders, particularly women seeking to make a difference in their respective industries. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Are you a car enthusiast who also believes in supporting important causes? Look no further because Elder Ford of Tampa is hosting a car and truck show to raise awareness and funds for autism research. Whether you own a classic car, a sports car, or an off-road truck, we invite you to participate in this exciting event. All makes and models are accepted for the car show, so everyone is welcome to showcase their prized vehicles. With 75 spots available for show entries, there’s plenty of room for you to display your passion for automobiles. This event promises to be a fun-filled experience for all attendees, so bring your friends and family along! Date and Time: Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 10th, from 1 pm to 5 pm EDT. We have planned an action-packed afternoon you won’t want to miss. Location: The car show will take place at Elder Ford of Tampa. With its spacious grounds and state-of-the-art facilities, it provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable event. So come on down and enjoy the beautiful displays of cars and trucks while supporting a great cause. Tickets: Securing your spot at the car and truck show is just a few clicks away. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite at prices ranging from $0 to $20. The funds raised through ticket sales will go directly towards supporting autism awareness and research initiatives, making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals and families affected by autism. What to Expect: The car and truck show at Elder Ford of Tampa promises to offer much more than just stunning vehicles on display. We have a fantastic line-up of activities and attractions planned to keep attendees entertained throughout the day. Some highlights include: 1. 50/50 Raffle: Take a chance and get in on the excitement of our 50/50 raffle. You never know, you might walk away with a fantastic prize! 2. Live DJ: Prepare to groove to the beats as our talented DJ creates an energetic atmosphere, adding to the overall excitement of the event. 3. Door Prizes: Several lucky winners will have the chance to win fantastic door prizes. Don’t miss out on a chance to take home something special. 4. Vendors: Explore a variety of vendors offering automotive accessories, merchandise, and more. Discover unique finds and support local businesses along the way. 5. Food Trucks: Satisfy your appetite by indulging in a delicious range of culinary delights from our food trucks. From mouthwatering burgers to savory snacks, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you to Elder Ford of Tampa’s car and truck show, where you can enjoy a day filled with stunning vehicles, fun activities, and the satisfaction of contributing to autism awareness and research. Secure your tickets now, and get ready for an unforgettable experience! Note: Please ensure you adhere to all local health and safety guidelines while attending the event. Tickets available on Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1st-annual-open-car-and-truck-show-autism-acceptance-tickets-665696525227?aff=ehometext TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Looking for a meaningful way to spend your Saturday? Look no further! Keep Pinellas Beautiful is hosting a cleanup event at Gandy Beach on the third Saturday of every month. It’s an opportunity for volunteers like you to come together and make a difference in our community. This month’s event, taking place on August 19th, will be held in partnership with Phade. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and join us in keeping Gandy Beach litter-free! Event Details: The cleanup will commence promptly at 9:00 AM, with volunteers gathering at South Gandy Beach, east of The Getaway. Don’t worry about finding the meeting location – just look for the direction signs, table, and tent. For easy navigation, you can use the GPS coordinates: 27.873630, -82.602535. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to complete the registration process. What to Bring and Wear: To ensure your safety and comfort, we suggest wearing closed-toe shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather conditions, and sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen. Keep in mind that the event will provide all necessary cleanup supplies, including garbage bags and gloves. Additionally, there will be a water refill station available, so we encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Parking and Logistics: Great news – parking won’t be an issue! Free parking spaces are available along the shoreline and grass areas near South Gandy Beach. Once you’ve parked your car, look for the designated meeting spot, where you’ll find our team ready to guide you and answer any questions you may have. Registration and Group Participation: Kindly note that all participants are required to register prior to the event. If you plan to attend with a group consisting of 10 or more volunteers, please notify Megan Jackson, the Program Coordinator, at [email protected] before registering. Megan can also provide any additional information or address any concerns you may have regarding the event. No physical tickets need to be printed for this occasion. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to contribute to a cleaner and more beautiful Gandy Beach. By participating in this event, you are actively reducing litter and protecting our natural environment. Join Keep Pinellas Beautiful and Phade this Saturday, August 19th, at 9:00 AM for a rewarding experience. For any inquiries or further assistance, feel free to contact Megan Jackson at [email protected] or call 727-533-0402. We can’t wait to see you there! TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Get ready, wine lovers! Uncorked is making a comeback in Tampa, and it’s promising to be even bigger and better than before. The third annual Uncorked: Tampa Wine Fest is slated to take place on Saturday, September 23rd, from 7 pm to 11 pm EDT at ZooTampa at Lowry Park. With a stunning new venue and an impressive lineup of wines to sample, this event is a must-attend for anyone who enjoys the finer things in life. One of the highlights of Uncorked: Tampa Wine Fest is the incredible selection of over 150 wines and bubblies from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just a casual wine enthusiast, there will be something to suit your taste buds. Take your time as you wander through the event, savoring each sip and discovering new favorites along the way. The event offers three ticket options to cater to different preferences and budgets. The VIP admission ticket, priced at $100, grants you early access at 7 pm and provides entry to the exclusive VIP pavilion. Here, guests can enjoy a DJ, lite bites, and access to some exceptional wineries that are not available to general ticket holders. Of course, VIP ticket holders also have access to all the main spaces at the zoo and other wineries throughout the event. For those who prefer a more intimate experience, the Early admission ticket, priced at $80, allows entry at 7 pm. This offers the advantage of exploring and tasting with a smaller crowd during the first hour, allowing for a more leisurely and exclusive experience. If you’re unable to make it earlier, the General admission ticket, priced at $65, allows entry at 8 pm. This ticket option provides three hours of wine tasting and access to all the exciting offerings. The event concludes at 11 pm, providing plenty of time to sample and explore the various wines. All tickets include unlimited wine tasting, providing a true opportunity to indulge in your favorite vintages. However, do note that food is sold separately for early and general admission. So, be sure to come with an appetite and explore the delectable food offerings available on-site. Uncorked: Tampa Wine Fest isn’t just about wine; it’s also about creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. With its “exotic” theme, the event promises a fun-filled evening where you can unwind and enjoy the company of fellow wine enthusiasts. What better way to spend a Saturday night than surrounded by the beautiful surroundings of ZooTampa, sipping on excellent wines and experiencing the zoo after hours? As with any event, it’s important to note that this is a 21 and over affair. So, make sure to bring your ID and prepare for an evening of sophistication and indulgence. And remember, tickets are non-refundable, so plan ahead and secure your spot at this fabulous wine fest. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit uncorkedwinefestivals.com. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the 3rd annual Uncorked: Tampa Wine Fest. Mark your calendars and get ready for an evening of exquisite wines, delightful company, and unforgettable memories. Cheers to good times and great wine! TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

In the latest turn of events, young phenom Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays has agreed to take leave from the club and go on the Restricted List for the duration of the current road trip. This decision comes in light of an ongoing investigation by Dominican authorities concerning an alleged relationship between Franco and a minor. While more details are yet to emerge, this unexpected development has raised speculation and concern among fans and the baseball community. As per the mutual agreement between Franco and the Tampa Bay Rays, the young star will remain on the Restricted List, effectively removing him from the active roster. Despite not being part of the team for the time being, Franco will continue to receive his pay. The Tampa Bay Rays, known for their commitment to a strong ethical organizational culture, will undoubtedly cooperate fully with the authorities or any other party involved in this matter. Franco’s leave from the club will undoubtedly have an impact on the Tampa Bay Rays’ on-field performance. The young infielder has shown immense promise since his debut, impressing both fans and management alike with his exceptional skills and baseball acumen. However, the Rays’ organization is known for its depth and resilience, and they will continue to strive for success, even in Franco’s temporary absence. It is important to note that at this stage, Wander Franco has not been formally charged with any wrongdoing, and the investigation is ongoing. As in any legal matter, it is crucial to allow the process to unfold before making any premature judgments or assumptions. The authorities and the respective legal systems involved will undoubtedly handle the case with utmost care and diligence. The Tampa Bay Rays organization, renowned for its emphasis on character, integrity, and accountability, has yet to make an official statement regarding the investigation. It can be expected that the team will cooperate fully with the authorities and take appropriate action based on the outcome of the investigation. Wander Franco’s temporary departure from the Tampa Bay Rays due to the allegations made against him is a disturbing turn of events for one of the brightest young talents in baseball. As the investigation progresses, it is important to remember that every individual is innocent until proven guilty. The priority should be ensuring justice and safeguarding the well-being of all parties involved. The Tampa Bay Rays, like any responsible organization, will act in accordance with the outcome of the investigation while maintaining their commitment to upholding ethical standards both on and off the field. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Former President Donald Trump and several of his allies have been indicted by a grand jury in Atlanta, Georgia, on charges related to interference with the state’s 2020 presidential election. However, the comments made by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who initiated the probe, have raised concerns about potential political motivations. This article aims to provide an overview of the indictment while highlighting the controversy surrounding Willis’s statements regarding a rushed trial timeline and the implications it may have on the case’s impartiality. The charges brought against Trump and his associates, including Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell, stem from allegations of attempts to overturn President Joe Biden’s victory in Georgia’s 2020 presidential election. These allegations gained traction when a phone call between Trump and Georgia’s secretary of state was made public, revealing Trump’s request to “find” enough votes to reverse his loss in the state. Investigation and the District Attorney’s Statements: Fani Willis launched the investigation in February 2021, emphasizing potential violations of state laws, conspiracy, racketeering, and involvement in violence or threats related to the administration of the 2020 election. However, concerns have been raised about the district attorney’s comments regarding the timeline for the trial. Controversy Surrounding Willis’s Statements: Critics argue that Willis’s desire for a speedy trial may be driven by personal and political interests, given the complexities and time-consuming nature of high-profile cases like this. Particularly noteworthy is the existing Rico case, estimated to take 18 months to complete, which casts doubt on the feasibility of Willis’s proposed six-month trial timeline. Many view this discrepancy as evidence of potential ulterior motives and question the district attorney’s intentions and impartiality. Potential Implications: Willis’s comments and alleged sarcastic demeanor during the announcement have sparked controversy and raised questions about her impartiality in handling this highly politically charged case. Some argue that her statements may indicate a power flex rather than a genuine pursuit of justice, potentially undermining public trust in the legal process. The indictment of former President Donald Trump and his allies on charges related to interference in Georgia’s 2020 presidential election is an important development in the ongoing investigation. However, the controversy surrounding Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis’s statements and demeanor during the announcement has raised concerns about her impartiality and potential political motivations. Additionally, the apparent contradiction between her proposed six-month trial timeline and the estimated 18-month duration of an ongoing Rico case has led to questions about Willis’s true motives. These concerns highlight the need for a fair and transparent legal process to determine the outcome of this highly contentious case. As new information unfolds, it is crucial to remain discerning and uphold the principle of justice. Updates will continue to be provided as further developments arise, shedding light on the nuances of this complex and politically charged legal battle. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com