Tampa Bay Connects Pre-Launch Party Rescheduled for September 7th at Hilton Downtown Tampa

- August 31, 2023

Dear esteemed readers of Tampa Bay Connects, We are delighted to inform you about the newly rescheduled pre-launch party of Tampa Bay Connects, your go-to platform for all things trending in the Tampa Bay area. Initially slated for August 31st, this exciting event has been rescheduled to September 7th due to the ongoing effects of Hurricane Idalia. Understanding the significance of this occasion, the Tampa Bay Connects team eagerly looks forward to coming together with you in celebrating our forthcoming platform. The pre-launch party will take place at the stunning Hilton Downtown Tampa, where we will be hosting an evening of networking, entertainment, and anticipation for the official launch of Tampa Bay Connects. Due to the unforeseen circumstances surrounding Hurricane Idalia, we made the decision to prioritize the safety and convenience of our attendees. Rescheduling the event provides us with the opportunity to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all who attend. Central to our ethos is a commitment to our community, and by rescheduling, we demonstrate our dedication to not only bringing you the latest in Tampa Bay trends but also to keeping you safe during challenging times. The pre-launch party promises to be an unforgettable evening. Guests will have the chance to connect with fellow influencers, industry professionals, and individuals who share a passion for all that Tampa Bay has to offer. Taking place at the elegant Hilton Downtown Tampa, we are proud to offer a sophisticated venue that mirrors the essence of Tampa Bay Connects. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the rescheduling of the event. However, we believe that this change will ultimately enhance your experience and enable us to kick off Tampa Bay Connects with the energy and fanfare it deserves. We remain committed to delivering a top-notch platform showcasing the vibrant culture, burgeoning businesses, and epic stories that make Tampa Bay a truly remarkable place. We kindly urge all our eager readers and supporters to mark September 7th on their calendars and join us at the Hilton Downtown Tampa for an evening of celebration, connection, and anticipation. Together, we will embark on a new chapter of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and mutual success. Thank you for your understanding, and we cannot wait to see you at the Tampa Bay Connects pre-launch party. Let’s make this a night to remember! Warm regards, The Tampa Bay Connects Team TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Fail Forward: Embracing Failure as the Gateway to Success

- August 31, 2023

In the pursuit of success, our society often focuses solely on achievements, overlooking the valuable lessons that can be learned from failure. However, embracing failure as a steppingstone to success is a mindset that leads to personal and professional growth. To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Tampa Bay Latin Chamber, in collaboration with the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center, proudly presents Fail Forward—an inspiring bi-monthly program dedicated to empowering our community by transforming setbacks into growth opportunities. Join us an engaging panel discussion that encourages us to embrace our failures and learn from them. Event Details:  Date and Time: Thursday, September 14, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am EDT. Location: Entrepreneur Collaborative Center, 2101 East Palm Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605. Agenda: – Meet and Greet: 9:00 am – Panel Discussion: 9:30 am – 10:30 am – Networking: 10:30 am – 11:00 am Fail Forward aims to inspire and motivate individuals by sharing stories of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming challenges. The panel discussion will feature accomplished entrepreneurs and industry leaders who have experienced setbacks and failures in their journey to success. The speakers will share their personal experiences, offer insights, and discuss strategies on how to turn failures into opportunities for growth. To make your experience even more memorable, enjoy freshly brewed coffee throughout the event, courtesy of Creative Mixology’s talented barista. Networking opportunities will also be available to encourage interactions and the exchange of ideas among attendees. Given the limited seating availability, registration is both essential and complimentary. To secure your spot, visit the Eventbrite page and reserve your tickets by following this link: Join us for Fail Forward—a one-of-a-kind panel discussion that will redefine the way we perceive failure. Through inspiring stories of resilience and determination, we will learn that failure is not the end, but a steppingstone towards a more successful future. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from successful entrepreneurs and community leaders in Tampa Bay. Register now to secure your spot and be inspired to embrace your failures as catalysts for growth. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Breaking News: Gary Cardone, Serial Entrepreneur and Blockchain Guru, to Speak at the Tampa Business Expo!

- August 28, 2023

We have some incredible news for all the blockchain enthusiasts and startup aficionados in Tampa Bay. The distinguished keynote speaker headlining the “startup culture & future of blockchain” stage at the Tampa Business Expo will be none other than Gary Cardone, a serial entrepreneur and renowned blockchain expert. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear from Mr. Cardone is guaranteed to provide invaluable knowledge, wisdom, and tips to take your business to the next level. With an astonishing worth of 9 figures, Gary Cardone brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the stage. As a highly successful entrepreneur and a recognized authority in the blockchain industry, his insights are invaluable for anyone looking to embrace the future of technology and innovation in their business strategies. The “startup culture & future of blockchain” stage is set to be a game-changer for all attendees, offering a deep dive into the world of blockchain technology and its impact on entrepreneurial endeavors. From exploring the latest trends to understanding the practical applications of blockchain in various industries, this session promises to provide attendees with actionable insights to stay ahead of the curve. The Tampa Business Expo, with over 2000 attendees, 20+ speakers, and 100 vendors, is already shaping up to be the biggest event of the year. And now, with the inclusion of Gary Cardone as the distinguished keynote speaker, it has become an even more compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs and business professionals. To ensure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary chance to hear from Mr. Cardone and immerse yourself in the world of blockchain and startups, register today. And remember, while the event is free, tickets are limited, so secure your spot before they run out! Don’t wait any longer to take your business to new heights. Join Gary Cardone and countless other industry experts at the Tampa Business Expo on October 6th. To register and learn more about the event, visit the official Eventbrite page at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tampa-business-expo-tickets-529549606127 This is an event you cannot afford to miss. Seize this unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights from Gary Cardone, a true pioneer in the entrepreneurial and blockchain realms. See you at the Tampa Business Expo! TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Luxe: A Latin Night at The Floridian Social – The Ultimate Salsa Event in Tampa Bay!

- August 24, 2023

Are you ready to salsa the night away? Get your dancing shoes on and mark your calendars for Luxe: A Latin Night at The Floridian Social! This spectacular event is happening next Thursday and is not to be missed. With amazing views, excellent dance floors, and a lineup of talented artists, it promises to be an epic night of salsa and much more. The best part? You can secure your spot by purchasing your ticket now for just $10, or pay $15 at the door. So don’t wait, grab your tickets early and save! The night kicks off with a dance class at 7pm, perfect for beginners or seasoned dancers looking to brush up on their moves. Learn from the best and get ready to twirl and spin on the dance floor. Once the class is over, it’s time to let loose and dance to the incredible beats provided by DJm Junior and his talented friends until midnight. From salsa to bachata, zouk to kizomba, and everything in between, you’ll be moving and grooving all night long. One of the highlights of the evening will be Nalisio Taveras, a talented musician who will be getting Saxy with us. His incredible saxophone skills will add a vibrant and soulful touch to the Latin rhythms, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees. But that’s not all! The Scene Media will be there to capture the magic of the night, ensuring that the memories created will last a lifetime. So get ready to strike your best dance pose because you might just end up in some amazing photographs! Luxe: A Latin Night at The Floridian Social is more than just a dance event. It’s a celebration of community, music, and Latin culture. So whether you’re a seasoned dancer or someone looking to try something new, this event welcomes everyone. Gather your friends, put on your favorite dance attire, and join us for an incredible night of music, passion, and salsa! Don’t miss out on dancing in this beautiful space and experiencing the vibrant energy of the Tampa Bay dance community. Get your tickets now, and we’ll see you next Thursday! Event details: Date: Next Thursday August 31st Time: Dance class at 7pm, DJ music until midnight Location: The Floridian Social St.Pete Tickets: Purchase your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/luxe-a-latin-night-at-the-floridian-social-21-tickets-705691872387 Don’t forget to use the official event hashtags: #salsadancing #bachata #zouk #Konpa #kizomba #urbankiz #socialdancing #sensualbachata #danceforcommunity #danceforacause #TampaBay #champabay #stpetersburgflorida #clearwater #salsalessons #bachatalessons #dancelessons #latindanceworld This event is brought to you by RELPro Events & Entertainment, RELPro Dance Promotions, Tampa Bay Dance Community, Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, Florida. Get ready to salsa your way into an unforgettable night of music, dance, and pure Latin joy! See you there! Link to event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/luxe-a-latin-night-at-the-floridian-social-21-tickets-705691872387 TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Unwind and Indulge in an Unforgettable Wine Experience at Bern’s Steak House

- August 23, 2023

Are you a woman who delights in the finer things in life, particularly when it comes to wine? Look no further than Bern’s Steak House, a Tampa Bay institution that has been captivating the taste buds of locals and visitors since 1956. As part of our Wine Women Wednesday series, we are shining a spotlight on this iconic restaurant as a must-visit destination for women who celebrate the pleasure of a great glass of wine. Bern’s Steak House is renowned for providing an unmatched culinary experience. Alongside perfectly aged steaks, which are cut to order, the restaurant offers a unique opportunity to indulge in a gastronomic adventure. The vegetables served at Bern’s are locally sourced, often grown on the Bern’s farm, ensuring the freshest and finest quality ingredients make it to your plate. From the moment you step foot inside, you are taken on a journey where every aspect, from the food to the ambiance, contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. What truly sets Bern’s apart is its extraordinary wine program, recognized with the prestigious James Beard Awards Outstanding Wine Program in 2016. As you explore the restaurant’s wine collection, boasting over half a million bottles and an impressive selection of 6500 labels from around the world, you’ll be amazed by the sheer variety and depth of choices at your fingertips. Bern’s takes its wine seriously, storing its collection in a dedicated on-site 50° working cellar, as well as a temperature-controlled warehouse, ensuring perfect conditions for every bottle. Whether you prefer a robust red, a crisp white, a sparkling delight, or a fortified wine, Bern’s has you covered. With more than 150 selections available by the glass, you can savor and explore the diverse world of wines. The options extend beyond the traditional, featuring an extensive dessert wine and port selection, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. And if you’re keen to take a journey through time with wine, Bern’s offers both current vintage releases and rare, older offerings, satisfying the palates of wine connoisseurs. Bern’s Steak House creates an inviting atmosphere where women can gather and celebrate Wine Women Wednesday, or any day of the week. The dining room opens its doors Sunday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and on Friday and Saturday until 11:00 PM. The restaurant ensures that every visit is filled with excitement, indulgence, and the opportunity to make lasting memories around a shared love of wine and exceptional food. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience Bern’s Steak House. Treat yourself to an evening of culinary bliss, where perfectly aged steaks, a world-class wine program, and an internationally famous dessert room all intersect to create an unforgettable dining experience. Join us on a journey of taste and sophistication at Bern’s, and discover why it has become a beloved destination for women who appreciate the finer things in life, especially when it comes to wine. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Don’t Miss this Incredible Opportunity to be a part of the Latin Tech Accelerator

- August 22, 2023

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be a part of the Latin Tech Accelerator, a program designed exclusively for seed to series A startup companies with 51% ownership, control, and operations by Latino or Latina founders. Thanks to a generous $500k federal grant, coupled with the support of Congresswoman Kathy Castor, & powered by SBA,  the Latin Tech Accelerator in partnership with the Tampa Bay Wave is ready to kick off. The application process will officially begin on September 1, 2023. The initiative started by Cesar  Hernandez, chair of board of TBLC and CEO of Omni Public took almost 3 years to complete.  “What an amazing time to be a Latin Tech Startup in the Tampa Bay region” said Roberto Borrero, CEO of TBLC.  The Latin Tech Accelerator aims to provide a transformative journey for its participants over the course of four intensive weeks spread out over four months. With two weeks conducted on-site in the dynamic city of Tampa, Florida, and two weeks delivered virtually, the program ensures maximum accessibility for all participants. To be considered for the accelerator, there are specific criteria you need to meet. First and foremost, your startup must be 51% owned, controlled, and operated by individuals of Latin descent. Additionally, you should have a dedicated management team consisting of at least two full-time members and the ability to travel to Tampa at least twice during the 90-day program. Market validation is another important requirement, and your business should be investable and/or scalable. A viable business plan and a financial runway of at least 6-12 months are also crucial factors for consideration. By joining the Latin Tech Accelerator, you will gain access to numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your entrepreneurial journey. You will receive guidance and mentorship from industry experts, connect with a supportive and thriving community, gain access to capital for your business, and enjoy exposure and savings opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this incredible program. Mark your calendars for September 1, 2023, when the application process opens. Visit tampabaylatinchamber.com to find out more information and sign up today. Remember, the Latin Tech Accelerator is a unique opportunity tailored to Latino founders, offering invaluable resources and support to help you take your startup to the next level. Seize this opportunity and embark on a transformative entrepreneurial journey. Please visit the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber of Commerce’s website at tampabaylatinchamber.com.  TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Remembering Ronnie: Join the 7th Annual Ronnie’s Run and Support Addiction Recovery

- August 20, 2023

On August 26th, 2023, the 7th Annual Ronnie’s Run will take place at Al Lopez Park, Tampa, in memory of Ronnie Scrimo. This event aims to raise awareness for addiction recovery and provide resources for those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. Ronnie’s Run not only celebrates the life of a remarkable athlete and dedicated student but also endeavors to support individuals and families affected by addiction. Join this meaningful race and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Ronnie Scrimo, a talented athlete and student, tragically passed away on December 10th, 2014. He was a dedicated Saint Petersburg College student, who had already earned his A.A. degree and was close to completing his Bachelor’s of Arts degree. Ronnie was an active participant in various fitness activities such as Tri-Fitness, Orangetheory Fitness, and CrossFit Apogee in Apollo Beach, FL. The memory of Ronnie’s vibrant spirit and love for sports inspired the creation of this annual run in his honor. The primary focus of Ronnie’s Run is to raise awareness around the challenges of alcohol and drug addiction, while also providing essential resources for those struggling with addiction and their families. Addiction can have a devastating impact on individuals and their loved ones, and this event aims to spark conversations, diminish stigmas, and encourage support networks. To ensure a smooth race day experience, packet pick-up will be available at two locations. On Wednesday, August 23rd, 2023, visit St. Pete Running Company at 6986 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, from 4 pm to 7 pm. Additionally, on Thursday, August 24th, 2023, packet pick-up will be held at Dick’s Sporting Goods Store in Tampa, Westshore Mall, from 4 pm to 7 pm. Please note that race day registration will not be available, so be sure to register online by the day before the event. Ronnie’s Run promises a fantastic race experience for participants. The event will feature live, in-person races starting at Al Lopez Park. Racers can choose from a 5k or 10k distance, both designed to accommodate all levels of runners. The event offers a variety of incentives and perks for participants, including a race shirt with eight different options, ranging from tank tops to hoodies, and unique finisher’s medals with ten distinctive designs. Following the race, participants can enjoy a well-deserved breakfast burrito catered by McDintons of South Tampa. Athletes can also cool down with complimentary ice pops and non-alcoholic, ice-cold beer provided by Athletic Brewing. To keep the energy high, the event will feature Charlie Chase DJ Entertainment, offering a lively atmosphere with great tunes. Dave Ragsdale will serve as the emcee for the event, ensuring an engaging and enjoyable experience for all. Registration: To join this powerful event and support addiction recovery, visit Eventbrite and secure your spot for Ronnie’s Run. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ronnies-run-5k-10k-leftover-race-tickets-697559297637?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse. The 7th Annual Ronnie’s Run is an opportunity to honor Ronnie Scrimo’s memory, celebrate his accomplishments, and support those battling addiction. By participating in this race, you can contribute to raising awareness and providing resources to individuals and families affected by alcohol and drug addiction. Lace up your running shoes, join the cause, and make a positive impact on August 26th, 2023, at Al Lopez Park in Tampa, FL. Together, we can run for Ronnie, run for recovery, and run for a better future. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Renowned investor and Stock Market Historian, Jeremy Grantham has No Faith in Federal Reserve

- August 20, 2023

Renowned investor and stock market historian, Jeremy Grantham, has expressed his belief in an upcoming US recession.  Grantham, known for accurately predicting previous financial crises, does not have confidence in the Federal Reserve’s ability to steer the economy towards a soft landing. He argues that higher interest rates will cause pain in the markets and expects the repercussions to drag on, potentially sparking a recession that could last into 2024. Grantham also warns of a possible stock market decline accompanying the downturn. In April, he predicted a significant market decline and a brutal recession, advising against holding US stocks and criticizing the Federal Reserve for creating asset bubbles. Furthermore, Grantham suggests that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s goal of 2% inflation may be challenging to achieve. He believes that we have entered a period of moderately higher inflation and, consequently, moderately higher interest rates. Grantham states that low rates push asset prices up, while higher rates push them down, and he anticipates an era of higher rates compared to the previous decade. In summary, Jeremy Grantham’s insights highlight his concerns about an impending US recession and doubts about the Federal Reserve’s ability to effectively manage the situation. He warns of the negative impact of higher interest rates on the markets and expects a potential stock market decline as a result. Additionally, Grantham predicts moderately higher inflation and interest rates going forward. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Catastrophic results on the horizon with 1 trillion of high debt says Bank Of America.

- August 20, 2023

Bank of America has issued a warning about a mountain of high-yield debt that could potentially be at risk. The bank estimates that companies have accumulated approximately $1 trillion of high-yield debt over the past five years, largely driven by below-investment grade corporations.  According to Bank of America’s analysis, around 25% of this debt consists of below-investment grade firms issuing risky high-yield bonds. Additionally, 35% is comprised of broadly syndicated loans taken out by below-investment grade companies, while the remaining 40% is classified as private debt. This buildup of high-yield debt poses a significant concern for the market. Bank of America strategist Yuri Seliger stated in a note on Friday, “$1 trillion in new leveraged credit over the last five years faces its day of reckoning.” Seliger further explained that approximately half of this borrowed money is currently housed in well-performing capital structures, while the other half is now in various stages of stress. To dive deeper into the potential risks, it is worth highlighting specific figures. Around $400 billion of the debt is currently trading at rates over 6%, which Bank of America categorizes as “pre-distress.” Refinancing these assets could lead to a coupon rate of 10% or higher. Additionally, roughly $150 billion of the debt is considered to be “deeply distressed,” as refinancing is no longer a viable option. It’s not just Bank of America raising concerns about mounting debt levels in the United States. Experts have been voicing worries about both private and public debt as the country moves away from a period of low-interest rates towards a regime of higher rates. The US has seen an increase in real interest rates, with a rise of 525 basis points to combat inflation, subsequently leading to elevated borrowing costs for corporations. This, coupled with a surge in corporate defaults – surpassing last year’s total, according to Moody’s Investors Service – paints a worrisome picture. Bank of America had previously predicted that up to $1 trillion of corporate debt could be at risk of default if the US were to enter a full-blown recession. However, strategists currently do not see a recession as likely to occur this year. In conclusion, the accumulating high-yield debt of around $1 trillion poses a potential risk for the market. With about half of this debt at risk of defaulting, experts are closely monitoring the situation. As interest rates rise and concerns over mounting debt levels persist, it remains to be seen how these factors will shape the financial landscape in the near future. TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com

Tampa Electric Company President Addresses High Bills and Offers Solutions for Customers

- August 19, 2023

Dear Valued Customer, Archie Collins, President and CEO of Tampa Electric, recently reached out to discuss an important subject affecting many customers: higher-than-normal bills resulting from elevated fuel costs in 2022 and a scorching hot summer. In his letter, Mr. Collins highlighted the steps being taken by Tampa Electric to address these concerns and provide relief to its customers. The letter provided some encouraging news – plans are underway to significantly decrease electric bills for 2024. Tampa Electric has filed a request with the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) to reduce bills, which, if approved, would result in a monthly energy bill decrease of approximately 11 percent for residential customers and between 10 and 18 percent for commercial and industrial customers. This reduction is primarily attributed to lower natural gas prices and the construction of new solar plants. The requested decrease would position Tampa Electric’s rates well below the national average, ensuring affordability for the community. Acknowledging the immediate predicament faced by customers, Mr. Collins addressed the issue of high summer bills. He attributed the soaring energy usage to record-breaking temperatures and extended periods of extreme heat. Tampa Electric has implemented several measures to assist customers during this challenging time, including a $1 million donation towards helping qualified customers pay past-due bills through the Share program. Additionally, the company paused disconnections during extreme heat periods and introduced longer-term payment arrangements for the remainder of the year. To help customers better manage their energy usage and save on bills, Tampa Electric is offering valuable solutions. Among these recommendations is setting the thermostat to 78 degrees, which can yield substantial savings. The energy experts at Tampa Electric have also developed hot weather tips and various energy-saving programs like Energy Planner, Prime Time Plus, and free online Energy Audits, all aimed at empowering customers to reduce their energy consumption and costs. Mr. Collins emphasized the extensive range of energy-saving initiatives offered by Tampa Electric, with more than 30 programs designed to cater to both residential and business customers. He encouraged customers to take advantage of these programs, including federal and nonprofit assistance for household expenses and utility bills, by connecting with Tampa Electric’s community partners. Finally, Mr. Collins addressed the importance of customer experience and acknowledged the higher-than-normal wait times experienced by some customers during July. He assured customers that steps are being taken to improve the timely delivery of customer service and offered his sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused. As a valued Tampa Electric customer, your concerns are important. If you have any questions or require assistance, remember that Tampa Electric is here to help. By working together, Tampa Electric aims to continue providing affordable and reliable energy solutions to the Tampa Bay community. “Note: This article is brought to you by Tampa Bay Connects publication, providing valuable insights and updates on local happenings to the residents of Tampa Bay” TBC Onlinetampabayconnects.com