FYI ...
Forwarded from the Economic Development Chairperson of the St. Petersburg Branch of the NAACP ... Feel free to pass on - as well as participate!

"Jus' Lookin' Out!"

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April 22nd Minority Forum with Rays

For Immediate Release

The St. Petersburg Branch of the NAACP and Tampa Bay Rays will host an open forum to discuss their minority participation goals, community development initiatives, strategy for job creation and the overall plan to redevelop Tropicana Field and examine the newly proposed waterfront stadium proposals on Tuesday, April 22nd at the St. Petersburg NAACP Branch located at 1501 16th Street South, St. Petersburg, Florida. The forum will take place at 7:00 PM and minority members from the religious, business and community sectors are strongly urged to attend this important community forum.

The Tampa Bay Rays Senior Management and the Officers, Economic Advisors and Economic Development Chairperson of the St. Petersburg Branch of the NAACP have been in negotiated meetings since January to outline a plan to advocate the promotion of civil rights, increased economic opportunity for the African American and minority community, achieve affordable housing and fair housing initiatives while developing a sustainable vision to promote social, environmental and economic development. Advocacy for the creation of new affordable housing opportunities for African Americans, other historically disadvantaged minority groups and low to moderate income individuals via the proposed Tropicana Field development are primary topics of interest.

To the extent allowable under existing Federal, State and local laws and regulations and applicable Major League Baseball rules, both groups are advocating for opportunities for the participation of African-Americans, women and other historically disadvantaged minority groups in the design, development, construction and operation of the proposed new Rays Ballpark, as well as provide increased opportunities for African Americans, women and other historically disadvantaged minority groups within the Rays organization, including front office, operations, concessions, facility maintenance and increased minority vendor opportunities.

To examine these initiatives and share your concerns for the proposed stadium an rsvp to the St. Petersburg Branch of the NAACP is required by Monday, April 21st at 727-898-3310. Refreshments will be served and space is limited to attend.

For further details please contact Ms. Oretha Pope, Jr., Economic Development Chairperson, St. Petersburg Branch NAACP or Mr. Norman Brown, President.