Noteworthy News

Remembering Reverend Jesse Jackson

Jesse Louis Jackson was an American civil rights activist, ordained Baptist minister, and two-time Democratic presidential candidate, widely regarded as one of the most influential African American leaders of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He was born in Greenville, South Carolina and grew up in a racially segregated environment. He was one of eight students to organize a sit-in at a whites-only library in 1960, marking his first major protest. He attended North Carolina A&T State University, where he continued to protest segregation, and later studied at Chicago Theological Seminary, dropping out to join the civil rights movement. Jackson became a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and James Bevel, marching in the Selma to Montgomery marches and working with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He was present in Memphis when King was assassinated in 1968, an event that shaped his leadership approach.

Board Votes to Appoint Ronrico "Rico" Smith

as Newest HART Board Member

A third-generation Tampa native, Rico brings deep community roots and a steadfast commitment to public service. With several years of successful experience in sales and product management, he has effectively advocated on behalf of medical device companies before federal, defense, and state officials on critical healthcare issues. His professional background reflects a strong understanding of policy, strategy, and stakeholder engagement, skills that will serve HART and the community well.

Please join me in congratulating Rico on his appointment to the HART Board!

Good Government Award Display to be

Named After Longtime District 2 Aide

Rich Reidy

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners approved naming a planned wall display in the County Center lobby honoring recipients of the County’s Ellsworth G. Simmons Good Government Award after Richard “Rich” Reidy, the longtime aide to BOCC Chair Ken Hagan. Reidy, who passed away on November 11, 2025, was widely respected both within government and throughout the community. The Good Government Award display was his vision. He was actively working on the project prior to his death. Recipients of the Good Government Award demonstrate unwavering dedication to exceptional public service, the advancement of Hillsborough County, and the prosperity of its residents and businesses. The display will also include a plaque commemorating Reidy’s legacy.

Awareness

Women's History Month, observed annually in March, celebrates the vital contributions and achievements of women throughout history and contemporary society. Originating from a 1978 California local celebration, it was established nationally in 1987. The 2026 theme focuses on "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”

March is Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month, an annual campaign led by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) to highlight the inclusion, contributions, and potential of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in all aspects of community life. Established by President Reagan in 1987, this month focuses on breaking down barriers, encouraging independence, and fostering a society where everyone can succeed.

BOCC Recap 2/18/26

Commissioner Miller presented a proclamation declaring February 26 through March 8, 2026, as Florida Strawberry Festival Days in Hillsborough County. Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson accepted the proclamation and spoke. Other attendees included Florida Strawberry Festival Board Chair Pam Warnock, Festival Queen Layla Rothman, First Maid Marley Mueller, Court Members Cadence Cape, Addison Griffin, and Addison Pope, and Mr. and Mrs. Berry. Plant City Mayor Nate Kilton also attended and spoke.

1) The Board approved the proposed CDBG-DR Single Family Housing Program as outlined in the "Hillsborough County CDBG-DR Single Family Housing Program Blueprint Summary." This program allocates $211,339,196 in grant funding under the County's Action Plan and is expected to assist approximately 1,000 single-family homeowners (including mobile homeowners) who owned their property at the time it was impacted by Hurricanes Helene and/or Milton.

2) The Board approved an initial list of 7 infrastructure projects to be funded by the County's $709,324,000 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development CDBG-DR grant award. These projects were selected to address and/or mitigate the impacts of flooding, are geographically dispersed across the County, and fall into three categories: neighborhood drainage improvements, permanent pump station projects, and culvert repair and/or replacement projects.

3) The Board approved the Second Modification to the Construction Management At-Risk Agreement with Ric-Man Construction Florida, Inc. to authorize construction of Work Package B associated with the Gibsonton Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Project, increasing the existing contract amount by $10,014,315.02, from $61,133,829.90 to $71,148,144.92 for Guaranteed Maximum Price Two.

4) The Board conducted a public hearing to accept comments on the updated List of Real Property Inventory Appropriate for Affordable Housing pursuant to Section 125.379, Florida Statutes, approve a resolution adopting the updated List of Real Property Inventory Appropriate for Affordable Housing pursuant to Section 125.379, Florida Statutes, and authorize the removal of awarded properties from the capital asset financial records of the BOCC.

In the Community

Sherri Brown, VP; Naya Young, Tampa City Councilwoman

On Monday, February 16, 2026, I attended and offered greetings and presented a proclamation at the National Funeral Directors and Morticians 40 under 40 cookout. The event was hosted by Visit Tampa Bay and Aaron A. Cooper Mortuary and held at 5016 N. 22nd St. in Tampa. This event is a celebration of the achievements of young professionals in the field of funerals, burials and cremations. It's also an opportunity to foster connections, share insights, and reflect on the future of the funeral service industry.

Champion of Champions Reception & Dinner

Pictured L to R: Christopher Johnson, Community Investment Lead, Mosaic; Susanne Clemons, FL State Fair Authority Board Chair; Commissioner Gwen Myers, FL State Fair Authority Board Member; Jackie Barron, Sr. Manager, Stakeholder Relations & Advocacy Communications, Mosaic; Doyle Carlton, III, FL State Fair Authority Board Member

On Monday, February 16, 2026, the final day of the Florida State Fair, my Aide, Wanda West joined me at the inspiring Champion of Champions dinner. This event brought together outstanding youth participants from across the state, honoring their hard work, talent, and commitment. Supported by Mosaic, the program honors youth exhibitors for both their participation and achievements, emphasizing the importance of commitment, responsibility, and leadership in agriculture. Congratulations to the winners!

A special acknowledgement to Cheryl Flood, Florida State Fair Authority’s CEO, and her remarkable staff for a job well done on America’s Sunniest Celebration at the 2026 Florida State Fair.

Commissioner Chris Boles

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, I had the privilege of attending the State of the Region Community Luncheon, hosted by the Tampa Bay Partnership at the USF Tampa Campus, Marshall Student Center Ballroom in Tampa. The luncheon brought together a group of community leaders, business professionals, and local stakeholders, all eager to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of the Tampa Bay region.

Troy Stewart, Recreation Manager, Parks and Recreation and Adrienne Rouse, Recreation Manager, Parks and Recreation

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, my Aides, Wanda West and Robbi Smith and I hosted a Town Hall Meeting at the Lesley "Les" Miller, Jr. All People's Life Center in Tampa. We were joined by 30 departments and partner agencies to bring government to the people. Residents came out to discuss the pressing issues facing our neighborhoods and meet face-to-face with department leaders.

Learning Gate Community School 5th Grade Class

On Friday, February 20, 2026, the Learning Gate Community School in Lutz hosted their annual Black History Month celebration. I was honored to speak to the 5th grade class about the importance of Black history in our community and nation. The Learning Gate School has long been a beacon of progressive education, emphasizing the importance of social responsibility.

Thank you to Elise Sales, 5th grade instructor, Learning Gate Community School for the warm welcome and the opportunity to speak with the students.

On Friday, February 20, 2026, I had the honor of attending the National Pan Hellenic Council Luncheon held at the University Club in Tampa. It was beautiful to welcome the National Pan Hellenic Council and National Council of Divine Presidents and to celebrate the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the historically Black fraternities and sororities.

Front Row: Freddy Barton, Executive Director,

Safe & Sound Hillsborough and Dorothy Flowers

Back Row: Reeche and Rosalyn Wise

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, I gave opening remarks at the 2nd Annual Youth Opportunity Expo hosted by the 509 Committee and held at the Palm River Park in Tampa. More than 200 students registered and attended to meet with prospective employers for jobs and internships. It was inspiring to witness such a strong turnout of enthusiastic youth ready to begin their adult lives. Thank you to the parents who supported this event.

Thank you to the 509 Committee and all of our partners for your efforts on another successful Youth Opportunity Expo!

10th Annual Black History

Brain Bowl District Playoffs

Jessica Vaughn, Hillsborough County School Board Member and her son

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, I attended the HASBE Black History Brain Bowl at the Medical Academy at D.W. Waters in Tampa to recognize and support the outstanding efforts of our students and the broader educational community. The Brain Bowl is a distinguished academic competition that highlights student excellence, critical thinking, and teamwork, while celebrating the achievements of our scholars and educators. Thank you to the presenting sponsor, the Hillsborough Education Foundation.

Congratulations to this year's Brain Bowl Winners!

Reeche Wise, Rosalyn Wise and Dorothy Flowers

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, I attended the 2026 Black Love Classics Series at the historic Tampa Theatre, a beautiful annual celebration of romance, resilience, culture, and community as told through iconic Black cinema. This year’s theme, “At the Heart of It All,” highlighted films whose protagonists confront the root causes shaping their journeys—love, identity, justice, and legacy. The event was presented by Tampa Theatre and Tampa Electric.

Jane Castor, Mayor, City of Tampa

On Monday, February 23, 2026, I was invited to join the historical marker dedication of 10 new markers at the City Center on Hanna Avenue in Tampa including Ann Lowe, Belmont Heights, Claxton Hotel, Frederick Douglass School, The Garrison, Historic Doby House, International Longshoremen’s Association, Local #1402, Mount Zion AME Church, Port Tampa City Cemetery, and St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church. I was honored to give remarks and introduce Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.

Congratulations to the Hillsborough County Historical Advisory Council on the dedication and unveiling of 10 new Soulwalk Historical Markers!

Reverend Karen Jackson Sims, Sr. Pastor, Mt. Zion AME Riverview and

Cheryl Howell, Assistant County Administrator, Community Impact

On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, I gave remarks at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the County's newest 75-unit affordable housing apartment complex for seniors in Riverview. Zion Village Apartments sits on about 2 acres owned by the nearby Mt. Zion AME Church of Riverview. All 75 units at Zion Village Apartments will be leased at below-market rates to residents 55 and older who are making 70 percent or less of Area Median Income.

Congratulations to the Affordable Housing Services Department and our partner agencies including African Methodist Episcopal Church, Smith & Henzy Affordable Group, Tampa Housing Authority, Housing Finance Authority, Bank of America, Berkadia, and Freddie Mac on another affordable housing complex!

HCPS Discussion Panel

Front Row: Emerald Morrow, Anchor, 10 Tampa Bay and Moderator

Back Row: Marcos Murillo, Chief of Innovation & Strategic Planning, Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS);

Ross Anderson, Education Advocate Liaison, HCPS;

Michelle Loango, Director of Innovation & Strategic Planning, HCPS;

Christina Rayburn, Executive Director of High Schools, HCPS;

Robert Nelson, Region Superintendent of High Schools, HCPS;

Larissa McCoy Mitti, Region Superintendent of High Schools, HCPS,

and Gary Brady, Chief Academic Officer, HCPS

On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the 509 Committee, my staff, and I hosted a discussion panel with members of the Hillsborough County Public Schools Leadership Team. The discussion topics were graduation rates and monitoring of non-graduates. Our moderator and community members posed engaging questions to the panel which they addressed enthusiastically. The overwhelming message of the evening was the importance of attendance and reading. We encourage all community members to support parents and students so that our schools can continue to increase graduation rates year after year.

Thank you to Emmy award winning news anchor, Emerald Morrow for moderating the panel discussion for us!

Congresswoman Kathy Castor's

Annual Black History Month Program

Candy Lowe; Areil Danley; Kay Andrews; Kathy Castor, Congresswoman

and Marvin Knight

On Friday, February 27, 2026, Congresswoman Kathy Castor hosted her annual Black History Month Program at Tampa Bay Technical High School. The event commemorated the rich contributions of African Americans throughout history and encouraged a sense of community, unity, and inspiration. Congresswoman Castor delivered an enlightening keynote address, highlighting the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of African Americans in both our community and our society as a whole.

Thank you to Congresswoman Castor for her continued support and willingness to be a guiding light to our community youth.

CDC Suit Up and Show Up

Karl Davis; Ernest Coney, Jr. President and CEO, CDC of Tampa

On Friday, February 27, 2026, I joined the CDC of Tampa at their annual Suit Up and Show up event. This gathering serves to provide young students with suits, shirts, ties, and shoes and to teach them how to tie a tie. The event empowers students with the knowledge and confidence needed to make a lasting impression in their future endeavors. The CDC of Tampa has long recognized the importance of professional appearance in today's competitive world, and this event exemplifies its commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders.

In the Know

Below: Stewart Middle School and Just Elementary School Renderings

Skanska, the Swedish construction firm with a local office, began demolition and reconstruction of Stewart Middle Magnet School in Tampa this month. The $77 million project will create a shared campus for Stewart and the neighboring Just Elementary. According to the firm, when finished there will be nearly 135,000 square feet of educational space. The Stewart portion of the campus will have more than 1,000 student stations and Just Elementary will house about 530 students. The two schools will share a cafeteria and media center on the property. A gym at the original Stewart Middle will remain with new lighting and code upgrades.

County Commissioners Seek Applications

for Citizen Boards and Committees

County Commissioners are seeking residents to serve on several County citizen advisory boards and committees. Residents interested in seeking appointment must reside in and be registered voters in Hillsborough County. These are voluntary positions and members serve without compensation. Applicants may apply to more than one board but may only serve on one board at a time unless specifically approved by the BOCC.

Applicants must complete the following documents: Application/Questionnaire and a Standards of Conduct Form. This can be submitted using the Online application and Standards of Conduct Form.

A step by step video guide is available at the following link: Digital Application Video Guide

Applications Due By: March 11, 2026

You're Invited

Save the Date

Mark your calendar for EPC's

25th Annual Clean Air Fair!

William F. Poe Plaza, Downtown Tampa

May 7, 2026

11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Stay tuned for Exhibitor Registration and more details to follow.

For questions, contact CastilloL@epchc.org

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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