Rampello K-8 Downtown Partnership School has become the first elementary school in the nation to be validated as an AVID National Demonstration School, marking a significant milestone for both the school and our Downtown community. The achievement builds on the school’s previous success in earning and maintaining National Demonstration status at the middle school level, making this latest recognition especially meaningful.
The designation recognizes Rampello’s commitment to implementing AVID strategies schoolwide, fostering college and career readiness, and creating a culture of high expectations and student success. As one of AVID’s model schools, Rampello will serve as a national example of effective instructional practices, aligned leadership, and innovative professional development. The recognition highlights the school’s ongoing impact in preparing students for future success while showcasing educational excellence in Tampa’s Downtown.
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A longtime Downtown gathering spot is preparing for a transformation. Gen X Tavern, known for its nostalgic atmosphere and pop-culture-inspired experience, announced plans to close this summer to turn into a whole new dining experience.
The bar will be reimagined as Nagi by Soho Sushi, a Japanese-inspired concept from restaurateur Dave Burton. The new venture is expected to feature elevated sushi offering izakaya-style dining, a curated whiskey lounge, and late-night entertainment programming on select weekends.
Gen X Tavern will remain open through July 4 before closing for renovations, with Nagi by Soho Sushi anticipated to open in October.
After 23 years with the Tampa Downtown Partnership, Karen Kress is embarking on a new chapter, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service to Tampa’s Downtown. During her tenure as Senior Director of Transportation & Planning, Karen helped shape many of the initiatives and ideas that have made Downtown more connected and vibrant, all while raising three children and growing alongside the organization she helped shape.
Karen has long been one of Downtown’s strongest advocates for bicycle and pedestrian mobility, from pushing for safer streets and expanding bike infrastructure to organizing community group rides and installing much of Downtown’s bicycle parking. Her contributions also extended to the creation of the Downtowner and DASH, as well as asphalt art projects, historic preservation efforts, and the ongoing vision to revitalize Franklin Street and the North End of Downtown.
Karen’s leadership reached beyond the Partnership as well. She served two terms as a City of Tampa appointee to the Planning Commission and was recognized as a Planner of the Year by Tampa Bay American Planning Association.
As JR Davis from What It Was Walking Tour noted, Karen’s “connection and love for the Downtown community radiates from her, and it has been infectious. Her devotion to small businesses and her sincere desire to listen to all voices to make Downtown an inclusive place has been special.” Chris Brimo of Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering added she has been an “Unwavering champion for Downtown Tampa.”
The Partnership extends its deepest thanks for her 23 years of service and wishes her all the best in what comes next!
Tampa Downtown Partnership is pleased to welcome Dilip Singh as our new Director of Finance. Dilip brings a well-rounded background in finance, brand management, consulting, and operations leadership, along with a strong track record of supporting both corporate and community-focused organizations.
Throughout his career, Dilip has held leadership roles with organizations including Newell Brands, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, and PwC. In these roles, he led strategic initiatives, managed complex portfolios, improved operational performance, and built strong cross-functional relationships.
Dilip is passionate about strengthening organizational effectiveness, developing teams, and building meaningful connections that create long-term impact. He is excited to support the continued growth and vibrancy of Tampa’s Downtown through thoughtful financial stewardship and partnership. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, live music, yoga, attending concerts and sporting events, and engaging with the community.
Tampa’s Black History Museum will host a special program exploring the deep and often overlooked contributions of African American horsemen and horsewomen in Thoroughbred racing.
The presentation will highlight the stories of jockeys, trainers, and behind-the-scenes professionals whose skill and leadership helped shape the sport from the mid-1800s to today. The program sheds light on generations of Black professionals who played a vital role in the development of horse racing in the U.S.
Tampa Downtown Partnership is honored to serve as a reception sponsor. Please join us Sunday, June 8, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Tampa’s Black History Museum. Tickets are free. RSVP is required.
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Winter Village is returning to Tampa’s Downtown, and we’re now seeking qualified food and beverage partners through an open Request for Proposal (RFP). Each year, Winter Village transforms Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park into a beloved holiday destination featuring ice skating, local shopping, and festive experiences that draw thousands of visitors to the heart of Downtown.
We are inviting experienced and innovative food and beverage vendors to submit proposals to be part of this signature seasonal activation. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your offerings in a high-traffic, high-visibility environment and contribute to one of Tampa’s most cherished holiday traditions.
If you’re interested in being part of the 2026 Winter Village experience, we encourage you to review the RFP details and apply today.
The Digital Marketing Coordinator supports the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s communication efforts by managing daily social media content, updating the website, and assisting with copywriting and content development. This role plays a vital part in ensuring a consistent digital presence that reflects the organization’s mission, programs, and placemaking initiatives. The ideal candidate is creative, organized, and proactive, with a passion for digital media and storytelling.
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DASH Driver Ambassadors ensure efficient transportation of individuals between 20+ designated DASH hubs within the Special Services District (SSD) of Tampa’s Downtown while being a friendly and inviting ambassador of Downtown. Driver Ambassadors operate a company-provided four-door EV and utilize app-based software to receive and accept ride requests, navigate hub locations, and track rides.
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June 3 >> Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta | Lykes Gaslight Square Park
June 4 >> Rock the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
June 11 >> Downtown’s Backyard Market | Poe Plaza
June 12 >> Keys in the Park | Lykes Gaslight Square Park
Sundays at 6pm >> Yoga in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Mondays at 6pm >> HIIT in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Tuesdays at 6pm >> Zumba in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Thursdays at 4-8pm >> Art on the House | Tampa Museum of Art
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Monday Memo –Monday Memo is a weekly update of “insider Downtown information” regarding developments, transportation, special opportunities and other useful information to help you make the most of Downtown. Subscribe to receive this weekly newsletter.
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