What Was The Most Interesting Story Of 2008?

From an established automobile dealership closing its doors, to a celebrity running afoul with the IRS, and a pair of elderly men implicated in a sex sting, TBO.com readers were treated with a vast variety of interesting stories in 2008.

Below are the most-read stories on TBO.com during 2008. They range from serious, to offbeat, and even a little bit funny. But we want to know which story most caught your attention. Vote on the most interesting story of 2008, and offer your comments.

1. Bill Heard Enterprises Folding Dealerships Nationwide

One of the nation's largest car dealership chains has closed down operations, possibly forever. The Bill Heard Chevrolet dealership in Plant City closed its doors Wednesday, along with 12 other Bill Heard dealerships across the nation. The chain, in a statement Wednesday, cited rising fuel prices, a bad economy, credit problems and inventory heavy with unpopular trucks and SUVs for its decision to close.

2. TIA Passenger Had Box Cutter In Hollowed-Out Book

A 21-year-old Clearwater man was arrested at Tampa International Airport this weekend after security personnel found a box cutter in a hollowed-out book, authorities said.

3. 1 Of 2 93-Year-Olds Charged In Manatee County Sex Sting

Prosecutors are moving ahead with a case against one of two 93-year-old men picked up during undercover prostitution stings.

4. In Case You Missed It - 2007 50 Things We Know Now (That We Didn't Know This Time Last Year)

It's been a busy year. But, then, you already knew that. After all, you were probably busy submitting video questions to presidential candidates on YouTube. Or infiltrating the audience at a John Kerry appearance. Or, you know, having a real life.

5. Toddler's Elmo Doll Makes Death Threats, Family Says

A Lithia family says a cuddly, programmable Elmo doll revealed its dark side yesterday after fresh batteries were installed. Instead of singing songs or reciting the favorite color of its 2-year-old owner, James Bowman, the doll started making death threats, the family says.

6. Snipes' Attorney Says Client Just Asking IRS Questions

Did the action-movie star duck and roll under the tax system, or was he simply asking the Internal Revenue Service for help in filing his returns? On Monday morning, federal prosecutors, defense attorneys and a judge will sift through dozens of prospective jurors from four Central Florida counties with the goal of seating a 12-member jury. The jury will take up to four weeks to determine whether actor Wesley Snipes is guilty of conspiracy and presenting false claims for millions of dollars in tax refunds. Snipes also is charged with failing to file tax returns for six years.

7. Condo Company Unwraps Plan For Clothing-Optional Pool

Swimmers will have the option of wearing nothing at all at the Arbors at Branch Creek, a complex of 390 homes that landed on the idea to help move units in a down market.

8. Judge: Bradenton Man, 94, Entrapped In Prostitution Sting

A 94-year-old man whose arrest in a prostitution sting here caused an international buzz will not be prosecuted. A judge ruled Tuesday that Frank Milio was a victim of entrapment.

9. Owner Believes Lexus Vandalized Due To McCain Sticker

Frank Armstrong was preparing to go for a jog this morning when he noticed his Lexus – adorned with a McCain-Palin sticker - had been vandalized with obscenities and a burned American flag.

10. They Frown On Happy Meals

A McDonald's promotion that promised free Happy Meals to Seminole County students with good grades and attendance has been stopped, amid complaints from a Boston-based child advocacy group.

TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

TBO.com - Tampa Bay Online

TBO.com's Most-Read Stories Of 2008