Could nursing mothers be exempt from jury duty? That's a question Florida lawmakers may soon answer. On Tuesday, a proposal allowing an exemption to women who are breast feeding passed its first test, with only one dissenting vote, the News Service of Florida reported. ...more

November 6, 2009

The Tea Parties in downtown Tampa on Wednesday drew hundreds of people protesting the federal stimulus package. Marlene Etzler of Tampa showed up at the noon protest wearing an Uncle Sam hat and toted signs and a "Don't Tread On Me" flag. "I wanted to come here to speak out to have my voice heard," she said. ...more

April 16, 2009

On March 7, I was a model as a cancer survivor in the Celebration of Life Fashion Show. This was sponsored by the Heartland Realtors Association to benefit the American Cancer Society. It was one of the most enriching experiences I've ever had. I formed friendships that will last the rest of my life. I watched the ladies that worked with us, teaching, prompting and encouraging us pour their hearts into making the show a success. I received e-mail and phone call reminders from a wonderful lady who is dealing with stage 4 cancer of a loved one, yet she was faithful in making contact with us. Thank you, Jessica. There is no way to mention all who helped put this show together. Just to name a few, thank you to Holly from Allure Salon for the make up tips, to her sister who came from South Florida to help, and to Chastini who freshened everyone's lipstick. Thanks to the Bradenton Beauty and Barber School for the manicures and pedicures provided by their students. Marlene, thanks for being there to make sure the music was cued at the right time during practices. Thanks also to Impressive Pix Photography for donating their time during practice and the show. Lastly thanks to Libby for her dedication to helping us with the choice of clothing, to Dayna, our drill instructor, who was not satisfied with anything less than perfection, and to Sherrie Abraham for everything. ...more

March 14, 2009

The new year of 2009 is here. Last year at Manna saw a substantial increase in the number of families served, a new director and physical building changes. The one obvious fact that we are still open means that God is still blessing us. He blesses us through our wonderful donors. You have given generously of food, clothing, household goods and funds. I would like to say thank you. There have been many sad, wonderful and amazing things happen at Manna this year. Some I have shared with you, others God knows about. Recently I had a lady come in asking for help. Her husband's unemployment had run out, she had been laid off from her job and the prospects of Christmas for her three children were slim. She came to us too late for the Toy Store at the church, all the toys were gone. ...more

January 3, 2009

Normally Claudia Bishop would be doing her consumer lending and small business banking duties as a relationship manager at Riverside Bank, but Wednesday morning she had a different job - bagging groceries and handing out frozen turkeys at Manna Ministries. ...more

December 21, 2008

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office detectives have charged a woman with stabbing another woman Thursday night. ...more

December 19, 2008

A second try at a semi-successful TV caper wound up costing three suspects a shoplifting charge. ...more

December 13, 2008

The anticipation and excitement of competing in the first meet of the season didn't overwhelm the youthful Lake Placid girls weightlifting team on Thursday night. ...more

December 13, 2008

With a nice blend of experience and youth, the Lake Placid girls weightlifting team has a great deal of potential for the 2008 season. ...more

December 12, 2008

When Marlene Brewer heard about Carli Stack, the Plant High School teen who contracted a deadly fungus while battling leukemia, the former oncology nurse wanted to help. ...more

November 7, 2008