Robotic toy hamsters, the latest Barbie dolls and stylish boots are disappearing from store shelves as holiday shoppers start to get serious. But don't confuse this with the days of Tickle Me Elmo. ...more

November 10, 2009

It's like watching an old friend die. The Albertson's grocery store I've shopped at for 30 years is going out of business, having been bought by chain-grocery Publix. A month from now, it will reopen with all new staff and a different mix of products. ...more

August 20, 2008

Many of our Florida elders are unduly stressed and suffering today. As our governor proclaims his mandate for additional budgetary cuts, we are seeing a dramatic rise in the need for assistance. Many no longer drive as they can not afford the gas required and are unable to afford taxi fare or other public transportation. Faced with soaring prices for basic foods, they have already cut back to the point of experiencing substandard nutrition which aggravates conditions brought on by skimping on high-priced prescriptions. ...more

June 21, 2008

'Tis the age of the one-stop Christmas shopping experience, at least for those seen shuffling up and down the aisles at the local Target store. ...more

December 23, 2007

It's a shame you can't run your car on turkey. Unlike gasoline, prices for the traditional holiday poultry have dipped steadily the past several weeks across the Tampa Bay area. Some stores have dropped the price by more than a third, down to as low as 79 cents a pound. ...more

November 17, 2007

We Shouldn't Play Ball Regarding "Let's Get The Reds Game On In Pasco," Wednesday: ...more

November 16, 2007