Page 3 - Florida Sentinel 10-6-17

Features
Uncertainty Shrouds Leadership At THAP; New Interim CEO Named
Woman Killed By Hit And Run Driver
Detectives with the Tampa Police are currently investigating a fatal hit and run accident. It took place shortly before 11 p.m., Wednesday night.
According to police, Ms. Theresa Williams, 53, of Tampa, was at the intersection of E. Hillsborough Avenue near N. 15th Street. The unidentified driver struck Ms. Williams and fled. She died at the scene.
Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the acci- dent or who have any information to contact the Tampa Police Department at (813) 231-6130 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1- 800-873-TIPS, or www.crimestopperstb.com.
JEANNETTE BRADLEY ...Ousted as THAP CEO
In a press release earlier this week, the Tampa Hills- borough Action Plan (THAP) and its Board of directors said they are moving forward with plans to reorganize the entity which operates 5508 Co- Working & Collaboration Ex- change, Coastal Bay Properties and Synergy Health Centers.
The Board announced Monday that it has named Derrick Blue as its Interim CEO. Blue has been in- volved with the organization for nearly a decade, and will work closely with the Board to develop and implement a strategic growth plan.
Blue, formerly a member of THAP’s Management Team as Executive Director of Coastal Bay Properties, will assume his role as interim CEO immediately. He re- places Jeannette Bradley, who served as THAP’s CEO for several years.
Supporters of Ms. Bradley disagree with the change and believe she may be returned to the position. Some of those who operate business incubators at 5508 protested and met with some members of the Board.
Ms. Bradley made no comments about her report- edly being released, but said she hopes “whatever is done at THAP maintains the ideals of Mr. (James) Hammond – economic empowerment for the people in the community. Although 5508 is in East Tampa, this is something he wants replicated in other communities.”
THAP has grown its out- reach and offerings over the past few years. Its 5508 Co- Working & Collaboration Ex- change (5508 E. 50th St., Tampa, 33610) has become the new go-to for small busi- ness gatherings, community meetings and special events. 5508, which now has a waiting list, is occupied by
DERRICK BLUE ....THAP’s Interim CEO replaces Jeannette Bradley
32 businesses.
While the Board is
pleased with the increased awareness of THAP's affiliates and programs, it recognizes the critical need for a stronger business foundation.
"THAP and our affiliates have definitely progressed over the years. However, in order to continue this work and expand on the vision of THAP, we must have our business affairs in tip-top shape," said Livorno Williams, Board Chair.
In a press release, the Board stated in effort to have complete transparency, an in- dependent audit was con- ducted and the results show that THAP has lost a signifi- cant amount of money, the press release read.
"As the Board, we have to make the best decisions for the organization; and it's not always easy, but it's neces- sary. I am confident that we will find the solutions and get THAP on the pathway to con- tinuous growth and success," says Williams.
After meeting with some members of the community Williams released this state- ment: "We are looking for- ward to the next steps for THAP. We have met with community influencers and our collaborists. I believe we are moving in the right direc- tion and on one accord as it comes to the vision of THAP."
Other members of the Board as listed on the website are: Joel Barnum, Frank Crum, Karen Drum- mond, Tanya Johnson- Gilchrist, Synergy Board Chair; Norman Harris, Es- quire; and Dr. Theresa Lewis.
THAP and its leadership will use this upcoming quar- ter to realign its plan and pre- pare for a complete re-launch. Current business operations will continue dur- ing this time.
LIVORNO WILLIAMS ...THAP Board Chair
Community Input
Community activist and businesswoman Tonya Lewis, said several of those who operate businesses at 5508 are disappointed that Ms. Bradley was relieved as CEO.
“We are waiting to meet with this Board,” Ms. Lewis said on Tuesday. “We want to know, what is their vision. All of these Board members we’ve never seen. None have been out to help Ms. Jean- nette with her fundraising ef- forts. It’s the little people out here who have been support- ing her,” she explained.
When 5508 first started, Ms. Lewis said she was the first tour guide.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2017 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY PAGE 3-A