Accomplishments

Tom transformed a 300-capacity venue into Tampa’s premier live music destination, hosting diverse genres from rock to hip-hop, fostering community unity in District 5’s Ybor City. Crowbar’s iconic status strengthens local culture and small businesses.

Tom spearheaded the National Independent Venue Association’s (NIVA) lobbying effort during COVID, saving thousands of independent venues nationwide, including Crowbar, by securing critical federal funding.

As NIVA’s Southeast leader, Tom supports hundreds of venues across Tampa and beyond. advocating for economic recovery post-COVID and post-hurricanes. He helped Tampa businesses overcome thousands in lost revenue from canceled shows due to hurricanes, securing loans and NIVA Emergency Relief Funds to keep local venues operational, helping to make Tampa businesses more resilient.

Tom has proposed a Night Mayor position for Tampa to address nightlife issues, inspired by cities like New York, to support District 5’s entertainment economy and prevent overregulation.

He fought and helped repeal a restrictive noise ordinance, protecting Ybor City’s nightlife and cultural identity, demonstrating advocacy for District 5’s small businesses.

He successfully pushed back against new parking fees, securing three affordable freight parking spots near Crowbar, saving $12,000 annually and supporting Ybor’s small businesses. This shows his tenacity in addressing District 5’s infrastructure needs and fighting for us.

Tom launched DTOUR, a coast-to-coast network keeping live music dollars local, empowering independent artists and venues. This reflects innovative solutions for District 5’s economic development that meet the moment we’re in.

Tom developed and led a program to ensure Tampa businesses followed CDC guidelines, prioritizing public safety and setting a model for community-driven health initiatives in the city.

Tom co-created a legendary hip-hop and DJ night, uniting diverse Tampeños with free community events, featuring artists like Talib Kweli and Mos Def.

Tom organized risk mitigation training with Ybor businesses after a tragic shooting, enhancing safety and community resilience, demonstrating leadership for Tampa’s unique public safety challenges.

Tom served on the Ybor Chamber of Commerce, East Ybor Neighborhood Association, and helped form the Ybor Merchant Association, driving community-led solutions for District 5’s growth.

Tom has been featured in New York Times, Billboard, and Rolling Stone for his leadership in saving live music venues during COVID, elevating Tampa’s profile and proving his ability to influence policy.