Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Michael A. Tomor after 40 years of working at and leading art museums across the nation, including more than a decade as Executive Director at the Tampa Museum of Art. Dr. Tomor has left a lasting impact on the Tampa Bay region through his dedication and civic leadership. Tomor completed both his Master’s and Ph.D. studies in… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to celebrate the life and legacy of Gwendolyn Henderson – educator, business owner, Tampa City Councilwoman, daughter of West Tampa, and champion of Black history. The daughter of the late Asbury Henderson, a Korean War veteran, and the late Gladys Austin Henderson, Gwen was born and raised in Tampa, Fla., growing up in the… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to honor Marvin R. Knight, whose lifelong commitment to uniting people reflects the values he learned from both his family and the community that shaped him. Marvin Knight was born in Dade City, Florida, grew up in Zephyrhills and graduated from Leto High School in Tampa in 1979. Son of Early D. and Joyce M. Knight, and the youngest of… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to honor the Andrews family and the Florida Sentinel Bulletin, the long running African American–led newspaper based in Tampa, known for its deep roots in the community and its role as a vital source of news, culture, and advocacy. The Sentinel Bulletin’s founding, legacy, and enduring impact embody the very spirit of the Black press in… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to honor a Tampa Bay native and visionary business leader, Candy Lowe Jones. As a champion of Black owned businesses and equitable economic opportunity, Candy Lowe has opened doors for connection, collaboration, and community empowerment across the Tampa Bay region. Born in Tampa, Florida, Lowe attended C. Leon King High School and… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to celebrate the entrepreneurial legacy of Elihu and Carolyn Brayboy, owners of Chief’s Creole Café. Like a hearty bowl of gumbo, the Brayboy’s and their beloved café brought comfort and community to neighbors across the Deuces corridor. Their commitment to preserving and investing in Black-owned businesses remain a pillar of their… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to honor a captivating storyteller, entrepreneur and economic changemaker, Gypsy Gallardo. Ms. Gallardo devoted herself to leadership and advocacy for equitable economic, social, and political empowerment to benefit all Americans particularly Tampa Bay Area neighbors. Gallardo persevered through family substance abuse that tragically… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to commemorate Starling School, located in the Childs Park neighborhood of St. Petersburg, and the leadership of Carolyn Cloud as a bedrock educational institution in St. Petersburg. Founded in 1974 by Viola and Jimmy Starling, Starling School has remained steadfast in its commitment to embracing and nurturing local youth. Jimmy… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History Month to commemorate the Johnson family and The Weekly Challenger, an unwavering pillar of journalism that has kept our Tampa Bay area neighbors connected with uplifting local stories. Their dedication to preserving the Black community shapes a legacy for generations to come. The Weekly Challenger origin story starts with Mr. Cleveland… Read more »

Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Black History month with gratitude for the life of Commander Eunice Butts, her service to our country and Tampa Bay community. Commander Butts volunteered to serve America and shattered glass ceilings as an African American woman in the U.S. Air Force and National Guard during the Vietnam War. She served with courage, empathy and a love of country that… Read more »