Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson is urging consumers to understand the importance of America's farmers as food producers and economic engines on National Ag Day. State and national agriculture officials across the nation are recognizing National Ag Day today to celebrate the abundant food supply farmers provide and their significant contributions to the economy in every state. ...more

March 20, 2010

In the daytime, he wears a badge and a gun. On Sunday he preaches the gospel. Alan Wilkett, ordained minister and Pasco County Sheriff's Office deputy, works on a daily basis with the highs and lows of humanity. ...more

March 14, 2010

Looking for ways to stretch education dollars in a tough budget year, a state Senate panel is considering slashing county school board members' salaries. ...more

March 12, 2010

If there's one thing that's immediately apparent about new Rays catcher Kelly Shoppach, it's his attention to detail. ...more

February 28, 2010

Rip Stalvey had a spring in his step Monday as he walked the midway at the Florida State Fairgrounds. ...more

February 16, 2010

They say "blood is thicker than water," which usually means that family ties bind us to our relatives more strongly than any bond we may have with outsiders. ...more

February 7, 2010

Many years ago I spent some time in Haiti. Then it was a poor country, destitute, poverty-stricken, crime-ridden, corruption running rampart. Ten per cent ruling class, 90 percent in tragic straits close to starvation, on a daily basis. Schooling was unknown. Now, all of a sudden the whole world has discovered Haiti. Hollywood has had a two-hour telethon; American troops are moving in with aid. Why, even the Arabs are sending supplies. America's churches are asking for donations, retail outlets have boxes out for donations, TV and radio have addresses for donations. Are you getting the picture yet? ...more

January 28, 2010

It's hard to watch perfect strangers drive recklessly. But what do you do when you know the person tearing up the road? ...more

January 20, 2010

It's hard to watch perfect strangers drive recklessly. But what do you do when you know the person tearing up the road? ...more

January 20, 2010

The forecast for fishing, needless to say, is a "cold one." The barometer is on the rise and the water temperatures are headed in the opposite direction and will remain near record lows for the next four to five days. Tournament anglers and diehard fishermen will be tested even further by the 10-plus mph north wind. I won't be joining in the fun, but I do promise to read a fishing magazine in a show of support for my fellow faithful anglers. ...more

January 3, 2010