Issue #260: Drones, Lights & Festive Nights: MOSI’s Drone Zone, Chick-fil-A’s Cheer, River of Lights, and USF Bowl News

12/4/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
04 Dec

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Dr Ted
USAF Retired

 
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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Our Event Calendar

Local News

— Take Control: MOSI’s Drone Zone Soars with Fun and Learning

— Tampa Chick-fil-A Spreads Holiday Cheer with Dazzling Light Show

Of Interest

— Tampa’s River of Lights Cruise Offers Festive Fun Through Dec. 30

Sports

— USF Bulls Set for Hawai‘i Bowl Clash with San Jose State on Christmas Eve

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Take Control: MOSI’s Drone Zone Soars with Fun and Learning

The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) has launched the Flight Club Drone Zone, a thrilling new exhibit for all ages. This interactive experience lets visitors pilot drones through obstacle courses inside a netted enclosure near Mission: Moonbase.

Participants control drones with game-like joysticks, developing coordination and problem-solving skills. “It’s about more than fun,” said MOSI CEO John Graydon Smith. “It links kids and adults to the technology behind drones.”

The exhibit also highlights drones’ real-world uses, including search and rescue, and features an adjacent Aviation Evolution display showcasing drone careers.

Read More: tampabeacon.com — see for Drone Zone hours

Tampa Chick-fil-A Spreads Holiday Cheer with Dazzling Light Show

For 28 years, the Chick-fil-A at 6299 W. Waters Ave. in Tampa has transformed into a holiday wonderland under owner Jason Dittman’s creative direction. Inspired by his father’s love of festive displays, Dittman has grown the annual Christmas Light Display and Show into a must-see spectacle.

Nearly every inch of the restaurant, its parking lot, and drive-thru is adorned with over 1 million lights, synchronized to music and holiday themes. This year’s additions include a lighted Santa sled for photos and the Eat Mor Chikin mascot cow, illuminated by the drive-thru.

The free nightly show runs through Jan. 4, starting at dusk (closed Sundays). Special events like Snacks with Santa (Dec. 6, 13, 20, 23) and Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 7) provide additional festive fun.

Dittman, with help from his family and employees, works over a month to create this gift for the community.

Tampa’s River of Lights Cruise Offers Festive Fun Through Dec. 30

Celebrate the holidays in style with Tampa’s River of Lights Cruise, running through Dec. 30. This 45-minute waterfront adventure showcases breathtaking holiday lights along the Hillsborough River, including the iconic Holiday Island.

More than just scenic views, this family-friendly cruise offers festive fun for all ages. Guests can enjoy Christmas sing-alongs, experience magical “snowfall” during Let It Snow, and send letters to Santa via Tampa’s only floating mail buoy. Kids also receive stockings filled with surprises, handed out by the whimsical Elf on a Barge.

Adults can savor beer, wine, or seltzers while soaking in the festive atmosphere. With onboard entertainment and unforgettable views, it’s a holiday treat for everyone.

Tickets are selling fast! Book your spot now for one of the multiple cruise times available through Dec. 30.

USF Bulls Set for Hawai‘i Bowl Clash with San Jose State on Christmas Eve

The University of South Florida Bulls (6-6, 4-4 American) are headed to the Hawai‘i Bowl to face the San Jose State Spartans (7-5, 3-4 MWC) on Dec. 24. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET (3 p.m. HT) at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex in Honolulu and will air on ESPN.

This marks USF’s 12th bowl appearance in just 24 FBS seasons and their first-ever game in Hawai‘i. Head coach Alex Golesh, in his second year, led the Bulls to four wins in their last six games to secure bowl eligibility.

San Jose State, coached by Ken Niumatalolo, is making its 14th bowl appearance. The Spartans defeated Stanford 34-31 to close their regular season. This will be the teams’ second meeting; USF won the first matchup 42-22 in 2017.

Read More: gousfbulls.com — see for bowl & ticket info

Top Things to do in Tampa Bay
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