Raw Charge, a Tampa Bay Lightning community

There is time-lapse video fo the Tampa Bay Times Forum retrofit for the 2012 Republician National Convention. It's not for the meek of heart.

Sure, it's the off season, but it's a weird feelign to know that the Lightning are being temporarily displaced from the Tampa Bay Times Forum as the RNC takes control of the building on Sunday.

It's time for civic leaders to follow Lightning owner Jeff Vinik's lead and start sprucing up the Channelside District.

There has been no official announcement where the 2012 NHL Entry Draft will be held. Having it in Tampa would just add to the marquee events being held at the St. Pete TImes Forum next year.