This weekend will see a new effort begin to transform Downtown Tampa - again.
The idea of a vibrant nightlife in downtown is still only an idea. Lights on Tampa is trying to make a point that it can happen.
Recently over 20 young professionals organizations tried to make that same point at the Downtown after Six event. Several hundred participants came and had a great time. Unfortunately, most businesses closed and the participants walked down many dark streets.
This time the Lights On event is powered by the financial muscle of the Tampa Tribune, TBO, Channel 8, Verizon, and lots more, including the City.
But this time the weather forecasts call for high temperatures not reaching 60 and lows in the 30's - not exactly a lets be outdoors type of forecast.
AND across town the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be playing the Washington Redskins in a playoff battle.
One city council member is said to have called these "complimentary events." Who is she kidding ? Football and Art. Beer and Art. Floridians being outside for 30 degree weather at a football game only to warm up while driving across town to be out in more 30 degree weather ?
The event should still have a moderate success as to attendance, but are the downtown businesses staying open to help make it a success ? We doubt it.
We are extremely bullish on downtown. Should half the proposed developments not happen, downtown is still going to flourish.
We will be at the Lights on Tampa event for you. So come back to Tampagold.com on Monday for the pictures. But if it were really up to me, I would be hanging out at home or a favorite sports bar watching the game where it is warm.
2 comments:
Lignt on Tampa was FABULOUS!!! And, approriate businesses did stay open and they enjoyed the benefits afforded them
by the 25,000 people who attended. Yes, it was freezing but those who appreciate art,cultural and fresh ideas
were willing to bare the cold for the exciting experience. So,Bill, stay on your overstuffed sofa, drink beer, grow fat and reinforce your cynicalism.You aren't expected to appreciate all that Tampa is becoming.Additionally, you won't be missed!
Thanks for the feedback. The art was truly extraordinary (especially University of Tampa exhibit) TAMPAGOLD.COM has given you great coverage of the event - including audio and video - as you can see here - http://www.tampagold.com/lightsontampa.html. BUT name ONE downtown business that opened for the event that is not usually open on Saturday ? WE WATCHED FOR ONE, we did not see it. Did You ?
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