School Prep and Sandcastles: What's up in Land O' Lakes

Back to School Prep Time: The time for school is almost here. I’m sure the kids are dreading it, but I bet all the parents are the ones in a flurry right now. What back to school prep-work do you still have left to do? Any tips for anyone? Let us know on our boards!

Sandcastles on the Key: National Sandcastle Day is coming up this Saturday, August 17, and you can celebrate by seeing some awesome sandcastles over at Anclote Key from 9 a.m. to noon. If you decide to head out, bring a camera so you can share some photos with us on our Snapshots board!

 Tampa Bay Beaches Snubbed by CNN: As summer comes to a close, the folks at CNN have decided to highlight America’s beaches. They’ve released a list of “22 can’t-miss U.S. Beaches.” While the list has some amazing choices from New England all the way to Hawaii, it’s devoid of any Tampa Bay selections. Did they miss the boat? What Bay area beach would you have CNN add to that list? Tell us in the comments!

Hottest Ticket in Town?: Is your teenage daughter still glancing sideways at you for not getting her a ticket to see Justin Bieber when he was in town Aug. 8? Here’s a solution that might turn her frown upside down. Bruno Mars is heading to the Tampa Bay Times Forum Aug. 28. Tickets are still on sale, according to the forum’s website. They’ll cost you though. The cheapest seats are $53.95 when taxes and fees are added in.

Wet Weather Heading Our Way: With a large tropical system kicking around in the Gulf, just off the coast of Mexico, it’s best to plan for a wet day ahead. While the system doesn’t look like it’s heading this way, it is anticipated to bring some rain to the Tampa Bay area. Chances for storms are set at about 60 percent for today, Aug. 16.