Mandate Generators We here in Tampa Bay have watched a parade of hurricanes swirl around us and breathed a collective sigh of relief when they did not directly hit the area. Is Florida really as ready as we can be for the next "big one?" I've watched the news and see cities without power for days, and lines for relief and supplies. Since the weather is so unpredictable and we don't or can't all evacuate, I think our Legislature should pass new laws that mandate that all gas stations and grocery stores in the state have generators to keep them running when power is out. That way, those who endure the aftermath will have access to food and gas to keep things running until things are repaired and moving back to normal. ...more

September 19, 2008

This week, before Hurricane Ike struck Galveston and Houston, gas prices in Avon Park reached as low as $3.53. On the Saturday morning after Ike, nearly all Sebring stations were charging $3.95 or more. ...more

September 14, 2008

Hurricane Ike has not affected Florida's supply of fuel thus far, and no shortages have been reported, a state energy spokeswoman said this morning. ...more

September 12, 2008

ConocoPhillips will sell the remainder of its gas stations in the United States, the company said Wednesday, though Conoco, Phillips 66, and 76 will continue to operate under those familiar signs. ...more

August 28, 2008

Americans felt better about the economy in August, as a barometer of sentiment posted the biggest boost in two years amid falling gas prices. Two reports suggested that a bottom could be nearing for the housing market, but economists caution it's too early to proclaim that the worst is over. ...more

August 27, 2008

After several weeks of declines in the Tampa Bay area, gas prices may start to creep up ahead of the Labor Day weekend. ...more

August 26, 2008

To portray Obama as a saint or as the second coming of Christ is not only disgusting but also somewhat funny. Anyone who would buy into this charade would have to be a total imbecile, however, there seems to be a lot of them running around. ...more

August 7, 2008

Thousands of hybrid tea rose blossoms provide a spectacular roadside attraction. ...more

August 6, 2008

In response to the letter "Credit Card Up Charge," I am a bit disappointed that there were no facts stated, only accusations, and that Mr. Thompson did not do his research before he decided to write his "letter of complaint" to the editor of this newspaper. ...more

August 6, 2008

Authorities say a woman who discovered her neighbor dead in his home stole the deceased's credit card and used it at gas stations. ...more

May 29, 2008