Since 1996, The Tampa Bay Academy of Hope has provided at risk youth in Hillsborough County with exactly what is promised in their name: hope. On Saturday, June 27th, the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope will be holding their 13th annual “Faces of Hope” black tie awards banquet.

The evening’s keynote speaker will be Michelle A. Robinson, the President of Verizon’s Southeast Region, and entertainment will be provided by the Empyreal Chinese Acrobats.  An awards ceremony will be hosted by local television personalities Kathy Fountain and Frank Robertson from FOX 13. Awards will be presented in honor of the involvement of local individuals and companies that are making a difference in the lives of Tampa Bay’s youth through contributions, civic efforts, or direct involvement in their communities.

All proceeds from the Faces of Hope event will benefit the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope’s “Leadership Through Education” program, which helps “defeat illiteracy among disadvantaged and at-risk students.”

The Tampa Bay Academy of Hope was founded by former football player James Evans. Through his leadership and dedication, thousands of at risk youth and their families have been changed for the better. The Academy “offers counseling to inner city youth to put them on the path to become productive citizens.” Governor Charlie Crist says of the organization,  “With the help of…organizations like Tampa Bay Academy of Hope, together we can provide a better future for our children.”

The event will take place at A La Carte Pavilion in Tampa. Tickets are available for $100 per seat, or $1,000 per table. The reception will begin at 5pm, and be followed by a dinner at 7:30. For more information on the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope and the banquet, or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.tampahope.com/ or call 813-277-0464.

Tampa, FL (May 26, 2009) - The City of Tampa and Hillsborough County, in conjunction with the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), will host the 2009 Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, at MOSI.  Admission to the Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo is FREE!

In addition, Hurricane Expo guests can enjoy MOSI exhibit galleries and one standard IMAX® Dome Theatre film for only $8 per person.

Residents Invited to Test Their Problem Solving Skills While Helping a Good Cause

TAMPA (February 12, 2009) – It’s part scavenger hunt, part wandering party, and a whole lot of fun.  The Great Urban Race will be taking Tampa by storm on February 21, 2009, as participants navigate around the city solving clues and complete various challenges.  The 2009 event is partnered with America’s Second Harvest, which helps Tampa Bay's less fortunate who suffer from hunger. 

Teams of two will solve 12 clues and complete physical and mental challenges by walking, running or using public transportation.  Participants may find themselves scavenging for random items, deciphering puzzles, or completing a physical challenge or game.  The first twenty five teams to complete the race will have the opportunity to compete in the National Championship race for a chance at $10,000.

"The Great Urban Race is the perfect opportunity to discover Tampa in a new way,” said Joe Reynolds, Race  Director.  “For those looking for an extraordinary Saturday afternoon, the Great Urban Race will satisfy your desire for a new adventure.”

Since The Great Urban Race kicked off its first event in the summer of 2007, the response has been overwhelming.  Many racers are now competing in various cities across the country while others have become avid local supporters.  Raul Rumbaut and Heidi Steinhauer, who finished 16th in the 2008 Tampa race, said they “are counting down the days until the 2009 competition. We really a had a great time, hands down it was the best race we have ever competed in.”  

Tampa, FL (January 15, 2009)  – The Glazer Family Foundation is donating $150,000 to the NFL Youth Education Towns (YETs) of Tampa Bay.  The donation will help fund the recently completed Glazer Family Football Field at Mort Park. 

 “The Glazer Family Foundation is proud to continue its support of youth development throughout Tampa Bay,” said Bryan Glazer, Executive Vice President of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. “Enhancing the local educational and recreational facilities is essential to the growth of Bay area youth. This field is another way to help promote the importance of physical fitness and healthy living and will serve as a valuable resource to the local community.” 

There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new field at a 4 p.m. along with a press conference on Jan. 29 at Mort Park, featuring NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.