Elizabeth Rick of New Port Richey wishes she qualified for a free cell phone, like people on Medicaid or receiving food stamps. ...more

March 14, 2009

The U.S. Coast Guard has added a new vessel to its fleet, the type rescuers say are crucial in emergencies like the recent boat capsizing that left three people dead. ...more

March 9, 2009

K-9 Down, a specialized program for professional dog handlers and emergency rescue personnel, finished up a two-day training session Sunday at Florida Veterinary Specialists. ...more

March 2, 2009

As you can see in the photo nearby, from the scene of the explosion Wednesday at a house in Dunedin, humans are not always the only victim in such emergencies. The family dog suffered respiratory injuries in the explosion and needed treatment at the scene. ...more

February 14, 2009

Manatee's 911 system is back up. ...more

January 9, 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

TAMPA -- A Brandon woman was arrested this morning after calling 911 multiple times to report a noise complaint, Hillsborough County deputies say. ...more

December 16, 2008

In a few days, the American flag will be raised in front of Pasco County's newest fire station. That's how you'll know Station 16 is open for business. ...more

December 11, 2008

The cost of providing cell phones to about 150 of the Highlands County commissioners' 400 employees might be reduced under the first ever written cell phone policy, which is under review now by the county commissioners. ...more

October 28, 2008

The current economic disaster leaves me bitter. My parents grew up during the Depression, and I was inculcated with one basic financial tenet: Live within your means. Except for houses and cars, if you couldn't pay for it with cash, then you couldn't afford it. I was taught to save for emergencies, to not pay for services that I could do myself, and to value every penny. I cringe to think that I would ever need a government to bail me out because of choices that I made along the way. ...more

October 27, 2008