Our 2013 prom coverage starts now

It’s a rite of spring, from March through May, unfolding high school by high school around Tampa Bay. It’s also a rite of passage, leaving anyone who goes with lifelong memories, be they marvelous or meh.

Some proms are just for seniors, some include other grades, but whether you go or not, you can’t walk through the halls of your school without sensing the prom presence this time of year, in all its tacky, themed glory.

tb-two* loves prom season, and starting today with this preview and a story on Page 4 about a Nordstrom event, we’re beginning to tell the stories of prom, including unusual ways to ask a date to prom and just how do you tie that bow tie? We’ll also be showcasing really cool prom gowns, tuxedos and accessories, with photographs of real high school students modeling the fancy duds on St. Pete Beach and along the Hillsborough River in Tampa.

With your help, we’ll also be sharing prom photographs of your teachers, principals and parents, the older and more poufy-haired, the better! Please ask them as nicely as possible to let us include their prom photos and send them electronically to tb-twostaff@gmail.com, subject: OLD PROM. You must include their names (and dates’ names, unless the innocent need protecting), school and year of prom. Deadline is March 14.

Let us know about interesting prom activities going on at your school; we want to know the good, the bad and the ugly. Send your prom story ideas to tbtwostaff@gmail.com, subject: PROM TIP.

Enjoy the season! — tb-two* staff