TAMPA- Since 2019, several lost, historic Black graves have been rediscovered across the Tampa Bay area. After years of searching, MacDill Air Force Base says it has found what was once the Port Tampa Cemetery.
With the help of records from the Tampa Bay History Center, MacDill Air Force Base began a series of searches. According to the base’s public affairs department, it found 121 possible graves in the runway clear zone. Second Lieutenant Laura Anderson said they plan to continue searching.
“We’re going to keep looking and make sure we’re not missing anything,” said Anderson. “That way we can make sure that all of those who were laid to rest here… get the dignity and respect that they deserve.”
MacDill Air Force Base erected a memorial for the cemetery above the gravesites. It also raised a sign outside the base to pay respect to those buried. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Hillsborough County branch president Yvette Lewis said MacDill’s efforts are a step in the right direction.
“It’s positive that they are going out there and that they’re looking for it and that they found it,” said Lewis. “But it’s bittersweet because it’s sad that we had to discover this way.
Muma College of Business releases new study on housing in the Tampa Bay region
The University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business unveiled the findings of their 2024 “State of the Region” study.
The new data will provide telling insight into life for Tampa Bay residents. The study contains findings regarding workforce, availability, and housing trends over the last year.
Muma researchers found around 57% of Tampa resident’s income goes to housing and transportation, a 3% increase from last year’s study. Despite this, Tampa’s ranking in the category has remained the same and continues to be above the national average.
For more information, visit Stateofregion.com
Credits
Anchors: Abby Papasodero, Jimmy Rosilio
Producer: Justin Michael
Reporters: Layth Mekkaoui, Jimmy Rosilio
Social Media: Melissa Baldelomar
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