The Tampa Bay History Center will host its annual gala Friday, Nov. 14 under the leadership of chair couple Duncan and Jessica Belser, who return for a second year.

Celebrate the power of journalism at the Poynter Institute’s annual Bowtie Ball, honoring Jane Pauley with the Poynter Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Journalism, alongside special honorees G.B. “Garry” Trudeau and Dean Baquet. Since 2015, this Tampa Bay tradition has brought together Pulitzer Prize winners, best-selling authors, civic leaders, and media personalities for an evening of recognition and conversation. Guests enjoy dinner, toasts, and behind-the-scenes insights while supporting Poynter’s mission to champion freedom of expression and strengthen a free press. The Bowtie Ball is an unforgettable night spotlighting the people and stories that continue to shape our world.

Celebrate the power of journalism at the Poynter Institute’s annual Bowtie Ball, honoring Jane Pauley with the Poynter Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Journalism, alongside special honorees G.B. “Garry” Trudeau and Dean Baquet. Since 2015, this Tampa Bay tradition has brought together Pulitzer Prize winners, best-selling authors, civic leaders, and media personalities for an evening of recognition and conversation. Guests enjoy dinner, toasts, and behind-the-scenes insights while supporting Poynter’s mission to champion freedom of expression and strengthen a free press. The Bowtie Ball is an unforgettable night spotlighting the people and stories that continue to shape our world.

Ali Siddiq is a Houston-based stand-up comic, writer and public speaker known for his brutally honest and thought-provoking style. His comedy blends laughter and biting commentary, drawing on his personal experiences as a former inmate to humanize controversial topics like racism, social issues and current events. Siddiq has toured internationally, and his work has been featured on HBO, BET and Comedy Central.