Holiday deals may be hot, but retailers can still expect the worst Black Friday since the early 1970s, according to a University of Central Florida economist. ...more

November 27, 2008

TAMPA The holiday deals may be hot, but that won't be enough to convince consumers to spend like retailers hope they will, according to a University of Central Florida economist. This week's Black Friday will be a disappointing one for the retail industry, as overall consumer spending continues its downward slide this quarter. This rate of decline has not been seen in Florida since 1974, said economist Sean Snaith. ...more

November 26, 2008

So, how long did it take you to open those pesky plastic packages encasing your holiday gifts this year? ...more

January 11, 2008

Drew Burchenal and his dad, Bill, have been hunched over a conveyor for days, inspecting the fresh, hand-picked citrus from their 220-acre citrus farm in Odessa. ...more

December 19, 2007