Early Christmas, 'Lighting' Strikes Mansion and Miss America

A New Miss America: Nina Davuluri is charting new waters as the first-ever Miss America of Indian heritage. Not everyone, however, is pleased with the decision to crown the native of Syracuse, N.Y., according to TBO.com. What do you think?   

Get a Taste of Clearwater: Love the restaurants of Clearwater? Get your tickets now for the chamber of commerce’s 24th annual Taste of Clearwater. This isn’t your average sandlot event with tiny samples, by the way. Clearwater’s taste takes place at Westfield Countryside mall Sept. 24 and includes a VIP area right on the skating rink. Tickets are $40 for general admission. To get yours, visit the chamber’s website.  

Christmas in September?: The holiday is closer than you think. At least that’s what Toys ‘R’ Us would like shoppers to believe. The retailer has rolled out an early rewards program that can help consumers earn up to $100 back on their toy purchases made between now and Oct. 31. Check out the store’s website for details. Are you shopping early this year?  

‘Lightning’ Strikes Sarasota Mansion: Sarasota residents find themselves baffled with Lightning owner Jeff Vinik’s decision to buy a $4.25 million mansion only to tear it down. The St. Armand’s Key home was turned to rubble earlier this week, according to the Tampa Bay Times.  

Storms on the Horizon: Rain chances for today, Sept. 18, remain in the 50 percent range for most of Tampa Bay. Forecasters anticipate scattered showers in the afternoon and evening hours. Expect a high around 92.