In July of 2009, following the bailout and the TARP passages, the U.S. government either owned or controlled 31 percent of the U.S. economy as a direct result of its dealings with banks, AIG and GM, etc. Now the new health care bill will increase this figure by 17 percent to 48 percent. Next on the agenda are Barney Frank's Financial Services Bill and the Cap and Tax bill, which will increase the percentage to 71 percent. ...more

December 28, 2009

The Sebring boys basketball team will host the eight-team Taveniere Tournament, which starts at 3 p.m. today in the Blue Streaks gym. ...more

December 28, 2009

Wander off the beaten path in Avon Park. Downtown, next door to a tax office and a nail salon, is The Depot. ...more

December 27, 2009

The news story regarding the school district financial rating was interesting. I really liked the statement made by the Asst. Superintendent of Business Operations Mike Averyt, "What hurts the most was the legislature when they took our millage away." I have news for you Mr. Averyt, the legislature didn't take your money, that money belongs to the taxpayers. As a taxpayer, I don't feel overly compelled to ever see that money restored until some of the fat is cut out of the Highlands County School District. ...more

December 27, 2009

Local sports briefs for the Highlands County area. ...more

December 27, 2009

Jan. 2 The MADD Dash 5K and 1-miler, "A Resolution Run" ...more

December 26, 2009

The following people were booked Tuesday, Dec. 22 into the Highlands County Jail: ...more

December 26, 2009

Local sports briefs for the Highlands County area. ...more

December 25, 2009

Recently I noted that the state of Florida education system was a troubling symptom of our society, then that corporations were a troubling symptom of world economy. Well, the lack of a viable educational system is a troubling symptom of our civilization. This country has grown to be the greatest nation the world has ever seen. Not that we are superior, but that previous generations had overcome significant human flaws for 300 years to provide God-given alienable rights to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. ...more

December 24, 2009

Two managers of the Villa Del Sol Mobile Home Park were arrested Tuesday on warrants charging battery and burglary against a 91-year-old resident. ...more

December 23, 2009