Stories

App created by Tampa developer plans to change the way you shop, share favorite brands

Ever wanted to be a brand ambassador? Or have a platform to promote your favorite brands and retailers? With MeSpoke, you can do just that, as a member or "Speaker" with the new social media platform, you can upload content on your page showcasing your preferred brands/retailers. In turn, consumers can see your content and purchase what you have showcased directly off your page. 

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Co-Working spaces expand, attract talent in the Tampa Bay region

Collaborative co-working spaces are hot in places like Chicago, New York City, San Francisco -- and in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater. Local entrepreneurs share why this new type of business arrangement works better for them than traditional places to work.

Feature Story Ed Verner shows some of the office space in the Lee Building.

Main Street revival: Downtown Plant City carves out new path to the future

A new Main Street design team is tackling revitalization efforts in Plant City as community leaders focus on how best to encourage new investments and job growth in the downtown area.

Large skatepark coming to St. Petersburg

A new skatepark is coming to Campbell Park in St. Petersburg. Construction on the  $1.25 million regional grade skatepark is expected to be completed in fall 2017. 

New roastery in NoHo Tampa helps you create your own coffee blend

The Lab in Hyde Park gives guests the opportunity to not only try rare blends of coffee, but create their own unique blend by roasting beans themselves. This innovative concept was co-founded by Roberto Torres, who also founded the co-working space Blind Tiger Cafe. 

USF medical study hopes to lessen back injuries

USF Health researchers will study and analyze how worksite exercise can prevent lower back injuries in firefighters. If effective, the targeted exercise program can be shared with the general public leading to less back aches.  

Feature Story Christine Acosta is owner of Tampa Bike Valet.

Tampa Bike Valet parking service builds loyalty among bicyclists

Tampa Bike Valet Founder Christine Acosta says her service is a safer and more aesthetically sensitive alternative to locking a bicycle up against a sign post or on a standard bike rack.

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Sustainability awards highlight Tampa Bay green businesses

The Sustany Foundation’s 2016 Sustainable Business Awards recognize 16 local businesses for their efforts to save energy, recycle and protect the environment. Read about the honorees.

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The Science of Growth: Venture capitalist writes new book on why some startups change the world

Want to know why some companies fail and others flourish? A venture capitalist has a new book about his search for the practices that fueled some of the most successful startups in recent history, and he’s hoping it will give entrepreneurs in Tampa, and across the country, a blueprint for capturing some of that startup magic themselves.

Upscale bar, restaurant coming to downtown Tampa

Franklin Manor, serving craft beers and specialty cocktails designed by local mixologist Rohit Patel, and The Carriage House, a new restaurant concept, are moving into downtown Tampa. Both are creations of the Nocturnal Group

City of Sarasota issues call to artists for public art at downtown roundabout

The City of Sarasota’s Public Art Committee plans to acquire and install landmark sculptures at the center island of each new roundabout in a placemaking effort spearheaded by the City Commission to highlight Sarasota’s identity as a hub for the arts on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Who is hiring in Tampa Bay? May job news roundup


Car sharing network zips into downtown Tampa

Zipcar, a car sharing network now available in downtown Tampa, offers 14 vehicles for residents and visitors to pick up and get around the urban scene.

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Innovation Fixation in Tampa Bay: E-building Concepts

E-Building specializes in creating 3D modeling and printing for the building industry. Through the use of Oculus Rift, the company offers the experience of taking a virtual walk through construction plans before the first shovel hits the dirt. 

Feature Story Coast to Coast Connector Trail uses parts of the Pinellas Trail to connect Titusville and St. Pete.

Tampa Bay urban planners design more greenways, trails for future

Part of the solution to the high rate of pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities that plagues the Tampa Bay region is the opening of new greenways and trails. Several are in the works -- under construction, in the planning stages or part of a larger vision. 

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Retrofitting Tampa Bay for climate change: From understanding to action

Several key themes and insights have emerged through conversations and reflections related to 83 Degrees Media's series on climate change, arguably leaving us with more questions and ideas than clear answers or sound solutions. In that spirit, by way of conclusion, here are four provocations to keep the conversation moving forward across Tampa Bay.

MOSI working on move to Channelside District

The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) is developing a task force to plan, design and raise funds for a new science center in the Channelside District near Amalie Arena. The move is part of Jeff Vinik's redevelopment plan for downtown Tampa.