The Christmas season is when I reach out to all the people who have been special in my life. Whether by writing Christmas cards, sending e-mail greetings, or sharing hugs, I'm always reminded of how blessed I am to have my wonderful friends. Henry Adams said, "One true friendship in a lifetime is much; two are many; three are hardly possible." If true friendship is that rare, just what makes people "friends?" ...more

December 13, 2009

Here and now beside my love's hospital bed, reflecting on our first to third encounter when asked to be his partner in life, then laughing with a request to have 12 children with red hair like his, after our marriage vows, of course. ...more

December 5, 2009

I am outraged by Ron Smith's comment ("Agency spends $20,000 on food," front page, Nov. 24) regarding the excessive catering bills for the working lunches: "I think you're nitpicking, end of subject." I have had working lunches in my lifetime, but they never came anywhere near $155.94, even with the tip included. ...more

November 27, 2009

Don't have any extra cash but want to participate in the 29 Gifts giving campaign? A reader on www.29Gifts.org offered these eight ideas. ...more

November 7, 2009

Hernando County Middle School Athletic Conference Football Recaps (11-02) ...more

October 28, 2009

President Obama's plan will simply make insurance work better by holding the insurance industry accountable. Under the president's plan, it will be against the law for insurance companies to: ...more

October 6, 2009

Did you know that the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) excludes farm animals, horses, livestock and poultry from humane care? Why? Don't these sentient beings count for anything? Don't they deserve a lifetime of caring and compassion? ...more

September 25, 2009

Find out about TRACK ...more

July 22, 2009

With a new coach and a $9 million raise, Bucs receiver Antonio Bryant is ready to prove himself all over again, writes Martin Fennelly. ...more

April 1, 2009

Every once in awhile I like to get up on the proverbial soapbox and preach against or for some of the things that are going on around me. I don't expect to change anything all that much, but maybe someday when I have something to say, someone who has the say-so at changing things will pay attention and do something. ...more

March 26, 2009